Efficient use of arable lands in agriculture has been one of the debated issues in Azerbaijan for many years. It is particularly alleged that in some regions, certain land plots have been fenced off and left unused at different times, resulting in an accelerated salinization process in parts of these areas. Experts state that bringing such lands back into agricultural turnover is significant for food security.
According to Medianews.az, the Minister of Agriculture, Majnun Mammadov, speaking to Modern.az about the issue, stated that the current focus is on the declaration and inventory of arable lands.
"Right now, we are mainly engaged in the declaration and inventory of cultivated areas. Our goal is not to plant more land but to obtain more yield from less land," the minister said.
According to him, improving the information databases regarding land plots will contribute to solving existing problems.
"As information regarding property matters becomes more precise and cadastral maps are prepared, I believe these problems will gradually be resolved," Majnun Mammadov noted.
The minister added that efforts continue to preserve soil fertility.
"At the same time, melioration activities are being carried out in regions by the Water Agency. As a result of these melioration measures, the rate of salinization in some regions will decrease," he emphasized.
According to Majnun Mammadov, more efficient use of land resources and the expansion of melioration measures will serve to increase agricultural production.