Union Minister U Tin Aung San, who also chairs the Leading Committee for Agriculture and Livestock Based Economic Development and the Establishment of Special Development Zones, conducted an inspection of agricultural, livestock, and regional development projects in Yamethin District, Mandalay Region. The visit took place recently and involved a series of engagements with local officials and site visits.
Accompanied by Nay Pyi Taw Council Member U Aung Zeya, Mandalay Region Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation U Hla Myo, and other officials, the Union minister met with departmental representatives in Yamethin to review ongoing initiatives. During the discussions, U Tin Aung San emphasized the importance of collecting accurate data on agricultural and livestock production. He highlighted the need to increase crop yields, encourage multiple cropping, and broaden the cultivation of grapes to boost agricultural exports.
The minister also advocated for the expansion of poultry, pig, goat, and cattle farming, along with enhancing dairy production and cotton-based industries. He underscored the value of promoting agro-based manufacturing, achieving local food self-sufficiency, and creating rural employment opportunities.
Recognizing the risks posed by climate change and the El Niño weather pattern, U Tin Aung San urged officials to prepare for potential droughts and elevated temperatures. He stressed the necessity of securing sufficient water supplies and implementing effective water resource management strategies to support agriculture and livestock activities.
The inspection tour included a visit to a livestock farm in Pyawbwe Township housing 70,000 laying hens and 103 dairy cattle. The delegation also examined local fertilizer production facilities, snack manufacturing operations, and cotton ginning businesses. Agricultural sites visited comprised irrigation infrastructure, a demonstration plot for monsoon paddy seed production, grape plantations, a grape wine production enterprise, and cotton farms.
Throughout the visit, the Union minister focused on enhancing product quality and production standards to strengthen both domestic and international market access. He also highlighted the importance of improving market linkages for farmers. Additionally, U Tin Aung San inspected water storage at Kyinikan Reservoir and visited a cattle farm in Setol village, reaffirming the critical role of water availability in sustaining agricultural and livestock sectors in the region.