Agricultural Development : Mechanized cotton harvesting and cotton farming

Efforts have been made to expand the use of agricultural machinery in cotton production and promote cotton-based manufacturing industries. A demonstrations of backpack cotton-picking machines was held in Pyawbwe and Wundwin townships of Mandalay Region on July 18. Union Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation U Min Naung attended the event and said that the machines can reduce labor needs, speed up harvesting, and minimize cotton losses. He also encouraged farmers to improve cotton quality, use fertilizers efficiently, repay agricultural loans on time, and invest in irrigation where possible. During the visit, officials also provided technical advice to farmers on improving crop quality and productivity. Later, the Union Minister inspected cotton farming activities in Patheingyi Township and called for stronger research and improved silk production techniques.