The scientists have developed the technology to successfully produce virus-free banana using the tissue culture technique.
According to a report, the scientists working at the Institute of Agricultural Bio-technology and Genetic Resources (IABGR), NARC field trials of disease-free banana clones of the "Cavendish" variety have been conducted at various banana growing locations of Hyderabad, Thatta and Gharo in Sindh.
Virus-free banana clones produced through tissue culture in the laboratory were hardened in the glass house to produce a culture in well-rooted plants, which were later transported to Sindh.
Survival percentage of these plants in the field was 80-90 percent, vegetative growth was vigorous and the fruiting was good.
This research intervention by PARC scientists will have far reaching implications as it can play a decisive role to replenish the infected banana.
The government should reduce the burden of tax on the farmers and agriculture income tax is not at all justified.