The scientists have developed the technology to successfully produce virus-free banana using the tissue culture technique.
According to a report the scientists working at the Institute of Agricultural Bio-technology and Genetic Resources (IABGR), Narc field trials of disease-free banana clones of the "Cavendish" variety have been conducted at various banana growing locations of Hyderabad, Thatta and Gharo in Sindh.
Virus-free banana clones produced through tissue culture in the laboratory were hardened in the glass house to produce a culture in well-rooted plants, which were later transported to Sindh.
Survival percentage of these plants in the field was 80 to 90 percent vegetative growth was vigorous and the fruiting was good. This research intervention by Parc scientists will have far reaching implications as it can play a decisive role to replenish the infected banana.
The government should reduce the burden of tax on the farmers and agriculture income tax is not at all justified.

Copyright Associated Press of Pakistan, 2004

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