HYDERABAD: Professor Dr Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar of Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, has stressed the need for adopting modern sugarcane production technologies, promoting area-specific crop planning and protecting the ecological balance of sugarcane-growing regions to enhance per acre yield and ensure the sustainability of the sugar sector. He was speaking during the 58th Annual Convention of the Pakistan Society of Sugar Technologists (PSST), where sugar industry experts, researchers, growers and agricultural stakeholders gathered to discuss challenges and opportunities related to sugarcane production and the sugar industry. Dr Kumbhar said that increasing sugarcane productivity required a strong focus on improved production technologies, including the use of high-yielding varieties, better crop management practices, efficient irrigation methods, balanced fertilizer application and scientific approaches to pest and disease management. He emphasized that every crop has its own agro-ecological requirements, and future agricultural planning should consider the suitability of different crops according to the ecological zones of the country. “The production potential of crops can only be achieved when crops are cultivated according to the conditions of their respective agro-ecological zones. Research, policies and extension services should focus on area-specific solutions rather than adopting a uniform approach for all regions, ” he said. Dr Kumbhar highlighted that sugarcane is a delta crop and its future production in Sindh is closely linked with the protection of the Indus Delta. He said that measures should be taken to control sea intrusion and maintain the ecological health of the delta region. He further stressed the importance of ensuring the continuous flow of the Indus River according to the provisions of the 1991 Water Accord, saying that adequate water availability is essential for protecting agriculture, livelihoods and the environment of the lower Indus region. “Protection of the Indus Delta is not only an environmental issue but also directly connected with agricultural sustainability. The availability of freshwater flow is necessary for maintaining the productivity and resilience of delta agriculture, ” he added. Dr Kumbhar called for stronger coordination among universities, research organizations, government departments, farmers and the sugar industry to develop practical solutions for improving sugarcane production. He said that scientific research should be transferred from laboratories to farmers’ fields through demonstrations, training programmes and effective extension services so that growers could benefit from modern technologies. The PSST convention brought together leading sugar technologists, researchers, agricultural scientists and industry representatives to discuss innovations, production challenges and strategies for strengthening Pakistan’s sugar sector. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
Dr Kumbhar emphasizes modern sugarcane production technologies
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