Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has stressed the need to provide all possible support to small and medium-scale farmers to increase per-acre productivity.

He was chairing a meeting in Lahore today to review agricultural reforms and the implementation of government measures for the development of the sector.

The Prime Minister said certified companies should ensure the provision of quality seeds to farmers.

Shehbaz Sharif directed the preparation of a comprehensive national system for estimating crop production in consultation with all stakeholders.

He also directed the greater activation of agricultural research institutions to promote the development of the country's agriculture sector and bring research activities in line with international standards.

The Prime Minister directed authorities to make full use of the experience of students who returned last year after receiving agricultural training in China.

He further directed that merit and transparency be given the highest priority in selecting students for agricultural training in China this year.

The meeting was also briefed on initiatives to promote organic agriculture and the use of artificial intelligence for crop monitoring and pest and plant identification.