Abstract

The current status of the carrot cultivation in the Punjab Province of Pakistan was investigated to comprehend the potential of this crop, as this crop is gaining popularity among the local farmers. This model survey was a step forward to reduce poverty and unemployment in the rural areas by engaging the youth in vegetable production for export. Generally, it was observed that farmers were not using the standard procedures for carrot cultivation, mainly because of the lack of capital and up-to-date information on carrot production technology. It was observed that the carrot industry has a potential role in achieving the aforementioned targets. It was concluded that the government and private agencies should work together to achieve the goals for the betterment of the local community, and this could be a role model for other developing nations as well. Processing industry should be established in the major carrot production sites that will enhance the profitability of the crop to benefit the farmers while, on the other hand, it will generate employment opportunities for the local community and contribute significantly to the balanced diet of the local people to improve their health.

Key words: Daucas carota L., root, investment, production problems, yield, storage.