In an effort supposedly aimed at restoring degraded pastures, improving environmental conditions, and boosting the livestock sector in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, authorities are launching a dedicated enterprise named 'Bozatau agrostar'. This state-backed initiative comes as the region faces severe desertification challenges, though outside observers remain skeptical about the long-term feasibility and economic returns of such ambitious targets. According to an official decree, the new corporate entity will officially commence operations on November 15, 2026, under the founding of 'Uzagrostar Holding' with the participation of Joint-Stock Commercial 'Xalq Bank'.
Key Takeaways: The newly formed company plans to utilize advanced agricultural drones to sow desert-pasture plant seeds across 100,000 hectares by the end of 2030. The project involves acquiring 10 specialized drones, transport vehicles, and two granulators, alongside granting three-year zero-interest payment installments for eligible land tenants.
Land degradation and severe desertification have plagued Karakalpakstan for decades, heavily impacting rural livelihoods and regional ecosystems. The Uzbek regime asserts that the primary mandate of 'Bozatau agrostar' will encompass land reclamation, executing livestock development projects, and introducing modern seed-processing techniques such as pelletization and encapsulation. These processed seeds are intended to be deployed aerially using unmanned aerial vehicles to maximize coverage in remote areas.
Project implementation documents outline the procurement of 10 modern drones, specialized logistics transport for field operations, and two industrial granulators. Furthermore, specialized training programs are set to be established to train local operators in drone piloting and precision agriculture management. By the conclusion of 2030, the company aims to propagate drought-resistant flora varieties including saxaul-like shrubs, wormwood, and other native desert vegetation across the designated 100,000-hectare zone.
In addition to ecological measures, the regulatory decree provides financial relief for specific agricultural land tenants. Individuals who acquired land leases via open electronic auctions between January 1, 2022, and April 15, 2023, and whose additional fees amounted to four times or more of the plot's normative value, will receive concessions. Specifically, these tenants are permitted to pay an amount equal to one normative value over a three-year period in zero-interest installments.
Source: kun.uz