Karachi:Dr. Ghulam Sarwar Markhand, a Meritorious Professor and former Director of Date Palm Research Institute (DPRI) at Shah Abdul Latif University in Khairpur, Sindh, Pakistan, has been honored with the prestigious Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation (KIADPAI) in its 17th edition for 2025. He received the award in the “Influential Figure in the Field of Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation” category.
The announcement was made by Prof. Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, Secretary General of KIADPAI, during a press conference on February 27, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This year, the award attracted 187 participants from 28 countries, reflecting its global significance.
Established in 2007, the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation is a prestigious organization dedicated to promoting advancements in date palm cultivation and agricultural innovation worldwide. The award recognizes exceptional contributions across five categories, honoring individuals and organizations that have made significant impacts in these fields.
Dr. Markhand’s achievement marks the first time a Pakistani has received this esteemed international award in the “Influential Figure” category, bringing pride to Pakistan and highlighting the country’s contributions to agricultural innovation. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Markhand, emphasizing that this honor not only elevates the nation’s stature but also highlights the critical role of scientific innovation in addressing’s global challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable development.
In October 2024, Pakistan hosted its first International Date Palm Festival at the Expo Centre Karachi, organized by the Khalifa International Award. The event featured exhibitions and seminars, with cash prizes awarded across eight different categories related to date palm cultivation. This initiative emphasizes the Award’s commitment to promoting the date palm sector globally and fostering international collaboration.
Dr. Markhand’s dedication to date palm research and his pioneering efforts at the DPRI have significantly contributed to the advancement of agricultural innovation in Pakistan. His recognition on this international platform serves as an inspiration for scientists and researchers, highlighting the importance of innovation and excellence in addressing global agricultural challenges.
