Punjab Researchers Develop Sugarcane Variety with Impressive Yield
Punjab researchers have developed a new sugarcane variety, FDP-254, which promises to yield over 2,000 maunds per acre and achieve a remarkable sugar recovery of up to 12.77%. This breakthrough was discussed at a meeting in Faisalabad, where the Sugarcane Production Plan 2026-27 was reviewed and approved.
Key Highlights:
- High Yield Potential: The FDP-254 variety showcases a significant increase in yield compared to the current average of 745 maunds per acre in Punjab, outperforming the global average of 710 maunds.
- Improved Cultivation Practices: Dr. Muhammad Tariq, Director of Agriculture Farm Training Punjab, emphasized the importance of adopting recommended cultivation practices, including the use of improved varieties, optimal seed rates, and efficient planting methods.
- New Variety's Advantages: Dr. Muhammad Kashif Munir, Chief Scientist at the Sugarcane Research Institute AARI, highlighted the potential of FDP-254, noting that varieties developed by the institute cover approximately 90% of Pakistan's total sugarcane area.
- Climate Adaptation: Scientists from the Sugarcane Research Institute stressed the need to adapt cultivation practices to changing climatic conditions, focusing on modern production technologies and high-yielding varieties.
- Mechanization and Efficiency: The meeting discussed the benefits of mechanization in weed control, earthing-up, and harvesting, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and address production challenges.
- Ongoing Research: Ongoing research efforts are dedicated to timely irrigation, balanced fertiliser application, and developing varieties resistant to diseases and harmful insect pests.
Production Plan Approval:
After an in-depth review and incorporating participant recommendations, the Sugarcane Production Plan 2026-27 was approved. The draft will undergo final approval and be disseminated to field staff and farmers through the Agriculture Information Department's website.