Dera Ismail Khan, August 16, 2025 — A delegation from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agriculture Extension Department visited the Agriculture Research Institute’s Food Technology Section in DI Khan, focusing on advancements in the date palm sector.
Innovative Date Palm Technologies
The delegation explored the institute’s research facilities and innovative technologies. It included Dr. Hanif Zahid Khattak, Director Plant Protection; Dr. Murad Ali Khan, Director Horticulture; and Dr. Muhammad Anwar Khan Bhittani, District Director Agriculture Extension.
Dr. Shahzada Arshad Saleem Saddozai, PRO and Head of the Food Technology Section, discussed pioneering work in date palm fruit ripening and drying technologies.
Efficiency with the Hybrid Solar Tunnel Dryer
The research highlighted the Hybrid Solar Tunnel Dryer (STD), a local innovation reducing Dhakki date drying time to just 3–4 days. This significantly improves production efficiency and product quality.
Currently, 47 STD units operate in villages, providing farmers with a dust-free, hygienic drying method essential during monsoon seasons. This reduces spoilage while enhancing commercial quality.
Importance of Date Palm Investment
Officials lauded the institute’s research capabilities and stressed the need for increased investment in date palm infrastructure and training. They advocated for strategic funding to support sustainable agricultural development.
The delegation highlighted strengthening the date palm industry’s value chain to maximize economic potential and revenue growth for local farmers.
Boosting Revenue through Exports
The DI Khan Division is a leading Dhakki date producer. Traditional drying methods face weather-related challenges affecting quality and revenue.
Innovations like the STD allow farmers to produce export-quality dates that comply with international standards, boosting Pakistan’s agricultural exports and creating sustainable revenue streams.
Strategic Development Steps
Key regional initiatives are vital to enhance the economic impact of the sector:
- Government-supported plantations
- Enhanced research facilities
- Cold-storage infrastructure development
- Market linkage programs for exports
These investments will strengthen the value chain from production to international trade, supporting sustainable revenue for local farming communities.
