Hyderabad, A pioneering agricultural initiative undertaken by Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has dramatically improved the livelihoods of local farmers in three districts of Sindh through the adoption of intercropping techniques. This innovative approach, part of a project titled ‘Transforming Indus Basin with Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Water Management,’ is making significant strides in modernizing agriculture in the region.

According to Zameen.Com, the collaborative effort between SAU and FAO has led to the establishment of 22 experimental fields in Umerkot, Sanghar, and Badin districts. These fields serve as live demonstrations of intercropping, particularly between sugarcane and wheat, employing zero tillage and raised bed techniques. Such methods are anticipated to enhance crop yields while reducing production costs, thus offering a dual-crop benefit within a single cultivation cycle.

Professor Muhammad Mithal Jiskani of SAU underscored the initiative’s focus on introducing farmers to contemporary agricultural practices. This includes the production of higher quality, certified seeds aiming to optimize crop output. The project has facilitated direct support to farmers by providing essential inputs such as seeds and fertilizer, with FAO playing a key role in this support.

Dr. Ghulam Murtaza Jamro, the project's focal person, pointed out the significant challenges faced by the agricultural community in Sindh, particularly those arising from economic pressures and climate change. The intercropping initiative not only addresses these challenges but also sets a precedent for sustainable farming practices in the region.

The successful implementation of this project highlights the potential of collaborative efforts in transforming the agricultural landscape of Sindh, ensuring economic stability for farmers, and paving the way for climate-resilient farming practices in the Indus Basin.