AUP playing key role in agricultural development: KP Secretary

Secretary Agriculture Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dr. Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, has said that the Agriculture University Peshawar (AUP) is playing a pivotal role in the agricultural development of the province and the country, urging the university to further strengthen its linkages with research institutions, extension services, and other relevant organizations

PESHAWAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th May, 2026) Secretary Agriculture Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dr. Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, has said that the Agriculture University Peshawar (AUP) is playing a pivotal role in the agricultural development of the province and the country, urging the university to further strengthen its linkages with research institutions, extension services, and other relevant organizations.

He expressed these views during his visit to the Agriculture University Peshawar, where he was warmly received by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Sarzameen Khan, along with deans, the registrar, heads of departments, and administrative officers.

Registrar Dr. Rizwan Ahmad briefed the Secretary on various faculties of the university as well as ongoing academic and research activities.

Highlighting the contributions of the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering to the national economy, it was shared that the institute has so far introduced five canola and three wheat varieties with higher yield and improved resistance to diseases, which are gaining popularity among farmers.

The Secretary emphasized the need to promote modern research, innovation, new technologies, climate-friendly agriculture, organic food, tunnel farming, value addition, bio-pesticides, and bio-fertilizers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Sarzameen Khan said that the university has been rendering outstanding services in agriculture, livestock, and other key sectors, adding that its graduates are serving in important roles at national and international levels.

During the visit, the Secretary was also briefed on ongoing research and agricultural activities at the university’s research farm, where the “Tarab Rahbar” variety of wheat has been cultivated this year. Dr. Bakhtiar inaugurated the wheat harvesting campaign by cutting the ribbon.

Later, the Secretary attended a ceremony organized by the university’s Youth Anti-Narcotics Society titled “Strategies to Prevent Drug Use in Campus and Grand Expo” as the chief guest.

Addressing the students, he urged them to utilize their time productively and enhance their skills to succeed in practical life, adding that the present era demands innovation and creative thinking, and that youth are the real asset of the nation.

Subsequently, the Secretary, along with the Vice Chancellor and other officials, visited various stalls set up at the expo.

At the conclusion of the event, the Vice Chancellor presented a commemorative shield to the Secretary Agriculture.