The Minister of Agriculture visited the Republic of Karakalpakstan
The introduction of new technologies in agriculture, efficient use of resources, and increasing productivity in the region of Karakalpakstan are of great importance. In this regard, an expanded meeting was held under the leadership of the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Ibrahim Abdurakhmanov, and the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Daryabay Kaypov. The meeting took place at the Karakalpakstan Institute of Agriculture and Agrotechnologies, and was attended by leaders of farming and peasant enterprises, heads of agricultural departments, representatives of research institutes, and other relevant officials. The meeting focused on the outcomes of reforms implemented this year and the plans set for 2025. Special attention was given to the issues of introducing modern technologies, increasing crop yields, and enhancing the importance of agrotechnical measures.
In particular, the possibilities of producing 10 types of products in each district of the region, tailored to local conditions, as driver products, were discussed. These products include potatoes, onions, melons, meat, flour, vegetable oil, poultry meat, eggs, and milk. The Minister provided important recommendations on these matters. Given that most of the land in the region is salinized, proposals were made to cultivate salt-tolerant crops and to develop aquaculture by creating artificial ponds on unused lands. A particular emphasis was placed on turning white sesame into a driver product for the region, as it is salt-tolerant and has low agrotechnical costs, making it suitable for cultivation on saline soils. Significant recommendations were also given on increasing cotton and grain yields. The Minister stressed the need to stop cotton planting on 90 schemes and introduce drip irrigation under plastic films on 76 schemes in the upcoming season. This approach, based on China's experience, is expected to yield effective results in increasing cotton yields.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Minister issued a series of important instructions to responsible officials on the efficient use of land and water resources and ensuring the economic interest of farmers and clusters. Additionally, prospective plans were developed to ensure the development of agriculture in the region, taking into account its natural and climatic features.