Overview of the Khulli Katchery Event
In a bid to directly engage with citizens and address their day-to-day concerns, the Khulli Katchery was convened at Begum Nusrat Bhutto Hall in Jannah Bagh, Larkana, on Friday. The session was led by Provincial Minister for Agriculture, Sports and Anti-Corruption, Sardar Muhammad Bux Mahar, who arrived with a clear mandate: to listen, understand, and respond to issues affecting local communities. A large crowd gathered, underscoring the public’s appetite for accessible governance and transparency.
Key Focus Areas Highlighted by Sardar Mahar
During the open forum, Sardar Mahar outlined several priority areas aligned with his ministerial portfolio. Agriculture, a sector critical to Larkana’s economy, featured prominently in his remarks. He discussed ongoing and planned initiatives designed to support farmers, improve crop yields, and promote sustainable farming practices. Attendees raised questions about irrigation, input prices, and access to credit, with the minister promising policy reviews where necessary and highlighting government schemes intended to alleviate financial stress for farmers.
Agriculture and Rural Development
Addressing concerns about irrigation and water management, Sardar Mahar stressed the importance of modernizing farming methods while preserving traditional practices that sustain livelihoods. He indicated that the government is actively evaluating subsidy structures, input costs, and market access to ensure that smallholders can participate fully in the agricultural value chain. Citizens also pressed for better extension services, timely weather advisories, and pest management support, all areas the minister signaled would receive closer attention in the coming weeks.
Sports, Youth, and Anti-Corruption Efforts
Beyond agriculture, the session touched on sports development and youth engagement. Sardar Mahar spoke about expanding local sports programs, improving facilities, and creating pathways that connect young athletes with opportunities at district and provincial levels. The dialogue emphasized the role of sports in community cohesion and social development, encouraging collaboration between government bodies, schools, and civil society groups.
On the anti-corruption front, the minister reaffirmed a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the swift resolution of public complaints. Citizens were encouraged to report irregularities through approved channels, with assurances that sensitive information would be handled with discretion. The presence of anti-corruption rhetoric in the discussion underscored the administration’s intent to build trust by showing tangible responsiveness to citizen grievances.
Public Participation and Feedback
The Khulli Katchery format is designed to bridge the gap between government offices and the neighborhoods they serve. Attendees asked practical questions about daily governance, ranging from municipal services to licensing procedures. The minister’s team documented concerns, pledging to follow up with written responses where immediate solutions could not be provided on the spot. The session underscored the value of participatory governance, where citizens directly influence policy adjustments and service delivery timelines.
Looking Ahead: Follow-Up and Accountability
As the event concluded, there was a clear signal that this open forum will be repeated on a regular basis. The government reiterated its commitment to transparency, with a plan to publish a summary of the issues raised and the actions taken in response. Local residents expressed optimism that sustained engagement would translate into practical improvements—especially in agriculture and community development—while public accountability mechanisms are kept visible and accessible.
Why This Matters for Larkana
Open Katcheries like this bring governance closer to the people, allowing citizens to voice concerns without intermediaries. For Larkana, a district where agriculture remains a cornerstone of life and livelihoods, the intersection of policy, practical assistance, and community feedback can drive meaningful change. The proactive stance taken by Sardar Muhammad Bux Mahar signals a government willing to listen, adapt, and act on issues that affect everyday residents, from farmers to youths seeking opportunities in sports and public service.
