Pakistan's agricultural sector must embrace innovation to overcome stagnation and improve productivity, as new research in sugarcane breeding demonstrates significant gains in yield and recovery rates.

Speaking during a visit to the JDW Sugarcane Breeding and Research Centre in Thatta, Jahangir Khan Tareen emphasised the need to modernise farming practices. He noted that innovation is essential to enhance farmers' profitability and strengthen the broader agricultural economy.

At the facility, which is described as the country's first of its kind, researchers have successfully induced sugarcane flowering under controlled environmental conditions. This process is critical for developing improved crop varieties, particularly in regions where natural conditions are less conducive.

Drawing on international experience, Tareen highlighted that several countries rely on imported sugarcane varieties due to climatic limitations, while others, such as Australia, have advanced through controlled research environments. He said similar techniques have been introduced locally with the support of international expertise, enabling domestic specialists to continue the work independently.

The research has already produced promising results. A sugarcane variety developed through the 2016 breeding cycle, identified as J16-639, has delivered yields exceeding 1,100 maunds per acre, with sugar recovery reaching up to 11.5%. Another variety, J19-1574, has shown recovery rates above 12% and is undergoing further evaluation.

Scientists involved in the programme say the research centre represents more than a decade of continuous work, with additional high-performing varieties expected in the pipeline.

The developments highlight the potential of modern agricultural research to boost crop performance, though broader adoption of such innovations remains key to transforming the sector.