Photo: ExpressThe Bahawalnagar Rice Research Station stands as an imposing structure, equipped with ample resources, yet it has failed to introduce any new rice varieties despite being located in a region known for rice production. The research station, inaugurated in 2012 at a cost of Rs148 million, was established to develop extra-long grain rice varieties for South Punjab and provide high-quality rice seeds. It was meant to encourage modern production techniques, host seminars, and provide training to benefit farmers and the local rice industry. The owner of a local rice factory explained that Bahawalnagar houses around 200 rice factories, and its parboiled rice enjoys international recognition. The once-promising Rice Research Station, meant to lead the way in rice innovation, remains an unfulfilled promise.
