First annual general meeting (AGM) of Multan Mango Growers Association (MMGA) (Regd) was held here on Thursday under the chairmanship of Muzaffar Hayat Khakwani, who briefed the members that association was established to protect, preserve and promote the heritage of "Multan mango" and safeguard the rights of its members. Since its inception, the association has helped arrange mango festival.
He persuaded the government to establish mango research institute, initiating registration process for the branding of Multan mango, under the geographic indication, besides providing technical support to growers and creating awareness for growing quality mangoes and adopting modern marketing. Research scientist Munawar Kazmi briefed the growers about the ongoing projects under Australian ASLP programme and that how grower can benefit from their results.
Fahim of Fruit and Vegetable Development Project and Professor Nazim Labar of Bahauddin Zakariya University delivered lectures on good agricultural practices and orchard management. Khakwani congratulated three of its members for achieving Global Gap Certification for their orchards, which will enable them to export their produce to the niche European markets.
On this occasion a resolution was passed, asking the government to ensure the availability of electricity, irrigation water and fertiliser for crops and orchards, enabling Pakistan to become self sufficient in producing its food and fruits. The members expressed their satisfaction on the commencement of Multan Airport uplift work.
Newly formed board of management included four new directors, Dr Habib-ur-Rehman, Nasir-ud-Din Khan Alizai, Haji Azam Sabri and Waseem Khan Badozai. Board elected Nasrullah Tareen as CEO. Besides others, Malik Ejaz Rajwana, Saleem Alizai, Malik Nawaz Nandla, Barrister Muhammad Ali Khokhar, Mumtaz Khan Warraich, Farooq Hayat Khakwani, Ghulam Farid Khakwani, Major Tariq Ismailzai (Retd), Syed Tahir Raza Gardezi and Malik Faisal were also present in the meeting.