0-til cotton planting training

Cotton is planted in Pakistan in two modes- cotton-cotton and cotton-wheat-cotton. Cotton following cotton (cotton-cotton) is early planted in February/March and is a new trend in cotton cultivation. The crop is long duration and, therefore yields are high. Lately, cotton prices have been rising in international market so farmers are happy with this new planting arrangement. Last year CSISA, Pakistan undertook successful 0-til cotton planting under both panting arrangements. Despite some short comings the 0-til planted crop yields were similar to those of conventional planting. So this year it is being expanded to farmer’s fields for further testing and demonstration. So CSISA has been contacting cotton farmers in various districts. A progressive farmer’s organization in Khanewal invited CSISA, Pakistan to its meeting on 1^st  February, 2012 at chak No. 122/15-L (30.37950N, 72.36366 E), district Khanewal. Thirty five farmers were present. Dr. M. Aqil Khan explained to participants general philosophy of CSISA program and, in particular showed last year’s 0-til cotton experience graphically. Farmers were explained the purpose and method of 0-til planting. A field demonstration was also given to the farmers. CSISA, Pakistan distributed a leaflet also explaining the purpose and methodology. A lively discussion followed the discourse by Dr. Khan. Farmers made several queries/observation regarding various aspects of CA. At the end, four farmers volunteered to undertake 0-til cotton planting experimentally at their farms. CSISA aims to expand its contacts further and expects to have some 15 such demonstrations in and out side CSISA hub.

Dr. M. Aqil Khan addressing the participants

Participants

Field demonstration