🌳 Forest Futures Festival 2025: Planting Trees, Planting Ideas, Building the Future 🌱
Lahore, October 20, 2025 —
The Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (ATDCP), in collaboration DG Forest Punjab, with the Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, the Directorate General of Forests Punjab, Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation, Green Circle and Virsa Agri Farms, organized a visionary event titled “Forest Futures Festival 2025 – Tree Plantation & Forest-Based Enterprise Exploration” at CEMB, Lahore.
This unique festival was not just about planting trees — it was about planting ideas, enterprises, and hope for a sustainable green future. Alongside the plantation drive, discussions and demonstrations were held on forest-based entrepreneurship and incubation opportunities, including:
🌿 Herbal enterprises
🍯 Honey and beekeeping
🍄 Mushroom cultivation
🎋 Bamboo-based crafts
🌳 Carbon credit businesses
🏕️ Forest tourism and eco-resorts
The event reflected a shared vision to link forest conservation with economic opportunity, encouraging youth and communities to start green businesses that protect and regenerate forests across Pakistan.
🌟 Distinguished Guests and Participants
The ceremony was graced by Mr. Azfar Zia, Director General, Punjab Forest Department, as the Chief Guest, who appreciated the collaborative initiative and highlighted the Punjab Forest Department’s ongoing efforts in expanding green cover and forest restoration programs.
Guests of Honor, Dr. Kausar malik acting Director CEMB and Dr. Bushra Rasheed , represented Dr. Moiaz-ur-Rehman, Director, CEMB, and led the campus participation, extending a warm vote of thanks and appreciation to all attendees.
Special tribute and Token Cash Awards were presented to Shajar Dost Heroes of Pakistan, including Rs 200 thousands to Teacher Usman (in absentia due to health issues) and Rs 100 thousands to Ghulam Rasool Pakistani, for their extraordinary tree plantation efforts — with 2.2 million trees planted nationwide under the Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation.
🌿 Meet the Hosts & Contributors
Tariq Tanveer, CEO & Founder, Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan, shared the concept of Forest-Based Business Incubation and emphasized linking tourism, training, and entrepreneurship with forest sustainability.
Dr. Shahzad Basra, CEO Virsa Agri Farms and National Nutrition Expert, inspired the audience about the nutritional, economic, and social benefits of trees.
Sajid Iqbal Sandhu, CEO Green Circle and Director General (Punjab) of ATDCP, discussed policy integration for green entrepreneurship.
Ghulam Rasool Pakistani, Founder Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation, participated with his sons Muhammad Hamza and Abu Bakar, encouraging youth to dedicate their energy to Pakistan’s greening movement.
Other honorable participants included:
Abdul Basit Baloch (Director, Aghaz-e-Sahar Green Community Pakistan), Dr. Shahid Murtaza Chishti (Coordinator, Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan), Colonel Ijaz Rao (Green Tourism), Khaqan Chaudhry (Head IT Department ATDCP), Chaudhry Fayaz Anwar (Director IT, ATDCP), Ijaz Sahib (Admin Director, CEMB), Dr.Abdul Munam Farooq CEMB, Dr Allaha Bakhsh CEMB Dr. Muhammad Ashraf (NUMAL University Mianwali), Rana Umair (Herbogate), Abdul Rahman amjad, Muhammad abrar Sajar fost, Muhammad Iqbal Shajar Dost vehari, Abrar Olive Lover, and enthusiastic participation of CEMB students, staff, gardeners, and local community members, a appreciation shield present to Mr. Mustafa and his gardener team , Garden Supervisor, CEMB for his green efforts
🌍 Message of the Festival
The Forest Futures Festival 2025 carried a powerful message:
> “Forests are not just about trees — they are about livelihoods, innovation, and sustainability. When we plant a tree, we also plant a business idea and a greener future.”
The festival concluded with the distribution of appreciation shields among contributors and green heroes for their relentless work in forest promotion and community awareness.
🌱 Vision Ahead
The ATDCP and its partners announced plans to establish a Green Business Incubation Center for Training, Research & Development, and to launch an Annual National Forest Festival, celebrating forest-based entrepreneurship and eco-tourism in Pakistan.
Together, the participants pledged to make Pakistan greener, cleaner, and economically self-reliant through sustainable forest-linked enterprises.
📸 Event organized by:
Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (ATDCP)
In collaboration with:
Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab
Directorate General of Forests Punjab
Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation , green circle and Virsa Agri Farms
🌳 Plant a Tree – Start an Idea – Build the Future
www.atdcp.com

🌳 Forest Futures Festival 2025: Planting Trees, Planting Ideas, Building the Future 🌱
Lahore, October 20, 2025 —
The Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (ATDCP), in collaboration DG Forest Punjab, with the Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, the Directorate General of Forests Punjab, Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation, Green Circle and Virsa Agri Farms, organized a visionary event titled “Forest Futures Festival 2025 – Tree Plantation & Forest-Based Enterprise Exploration” at CEMB, Lahore.
This unique festival was not just about planting trees — it was about planting ideas, enterprises, and hope for a sustainable green future. Alongside the plantation drive, discussions and demonstrations were held on forest-based entrepreneurship and incubation opportunities, including:
🌿 Herbal enterprises
🍯 Honey and beekeeping
🍄 Mushroom cultivation
🎋 Bamboo-based crafts
🌳 Carbon credit businesses
🏕️ Forest tourism and eco-resorts
The event reflected a shared vision to link forest conservation with economic opportunity, encouraging youth and communities to start green businesses that protect and regenerate forests across Pakistan.
🌟 Distinguished Guests and Participants
The ceremony was graced by Mr. Azfar Zia, Director General, Punjab Forest Department, as the Chief Guest, who appreciated the collaborative initiative and highlighted the Punjab Forest Department’s ongoing efforts in expanding green cover and forest restoration programs.
Guests of Honor, Dr. Kausar malik acting Director CEMB and Dr. Bushra Rasheed , represented Dr. Moiaz-ur-Rehman, Director, CEMB, and led the campus participation, extending a warm vote of thanks and appreciation to all attendees.
Special tribute and Token Cash Awards were presented to Shajar Dost Heroes of Pakistan, including Rs 200 thousands to Teacher Usman (in absentia due to health issues) and Rs 100 thousands to Ghulam Rasool Pakistani, for their extraordinary tree plantation efforts — with 2.2 million trees planted nationwide under the Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation.
🌿 Meet the Hosts & Contributors
Tariq Tanveer, CEO & Founder, Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan, shared the concept of Forest-Based Business Incubation and emphasized linking tourism, training, and entrepreneurship with forest sustainability.
Dr. Shahzad Basra, CEO Virsa Agri Farms and National Nutrition Expert, inspired the audience about the nutritional, economic, and social benefits of trees.
Sajid Iqbal Sandhu, CEO Green Circle and Director General (Punjab) of ATDCP, discussed policy integration for green entrepreneurship.
Ghulam Rasool Pakistani, Founder Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation, participated with his sons Muhammad Hamza and Abu Bakar, encouraging youth to dedicate their energy to Pakistan’s greening movement.
Other honorable participants included:
Abdul Basit Baloch (Director, Aghaz-e-Sahar Green Community Pakistan), Dr. Shahid Murtaza Chishti (Coordinator, Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan), Colonel Ijaz (Green Tourism), Khaqan Chaudhry (Head IT Department ATDCP), Chaudhry Fayaz Anwar (Director IT, ATDCP), Ijaz Sahib (Admin Director, CEMB), Dr.Abdul Munam Farooq CEMB, Dr Allaha Bakhsh CEMB Dr. Muhammad Ashraf (NUMAL University Mianwali), Rana Umair (Herbogate), Iqbal Shajar Dost vehari, Abrar Olive Lover, and enthusiastic participation of CEMB students, staff, gardeners, and local community members, a appreciation shield present to Mr. Mustafa and his gardener team , Garden Supervisor, CEMB for his green efforts
🌍 Message of the Festival
The Forest Futures Festival 2025 carried a powerful message:
> “Forests are not just about trees — they are about livelihoods, innovation, and sustainability. When we plant a tree, we also plant a business idea and a greener future.”
The festival concluded with the distribution of appreciation shields among contributors and green heroes for their relentless work in forest promotion and community awareness.
🌱 Vision Ahead
The ATDCP and its partners announced plans to establish a Green Business Incubation Center for Training, Research & Development, and to launch an Annual National Forest Festival, celebrating forest-based entrepreneurship and eco-tourism in Pakistan.
Together, the participants pledged to make Pakistan greener, cleaner, and economically self-reliant through sustainable forest-linked enterprises.
📸 Event organized by:
Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (ATDCP)
In collaboration with:
Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab
Directorate General of Forests Punjab
Green Pakistan Clean Pakistan Foundation , green circle and Virsa Agri Farms
🌳 Plant a Tree – Start an Idea – Build the Future

🇵🇰 Integrated Agri Tourism Model for Pakistan (20 Acres Holding)
Bringing Prosperity to Villages through Farming, Tourism & Value Addition
🌿 Vision:
To convert traditional farms into profitable rural tourism destinations, promoting sustainable agriculture, rural employment, and direct farmer income through "Farm to Fork & Farm to Family" experiences.
🏡 Land Utilization Plan (20 Acres Model)
Area Activity Purpose
* 6 Acres
Organic & Demo Farms Display fruit, vegetable, and herbal farming. Include model plots for high-value crops (strawberry, dragon fruit, aloe vera, turmeric, mushrooms).
* 2 Acres
Eco Cottages & Farm Stay 6–8 eco-huts made from mud/bamboo for visitors, students, families, and tourists.
* 3 Acres
Agro Park (Activities & Learning Zone) Tractor rides, bull cart, camel rides, agri games, petting zoo, children’s play area, and agri skill demonstrations.
* 1.5 Acres
Farm Café & Organic Food Court Serve desi meals from farm-grown ingredients — makai roti, saag, lassi, honey, desi ghee products, and herbal teas.
* 2 Acres
Fish Pond & Livestock Corner Fish farming + small dairy & poultry section, Duck farming , goats and sheep farming for educational and income purposes.
* 2 Acres Landscape, Event & Picnic Area For family picnics, corporate retreats, weddings, and school tours.
* 1.5 Acres
Vermicompost, Biogas & Nursery Organic waste recycling, seedling nursery, and compost production for sale.
* 2 Acres
Reserve/Expansion Area For future projects — like farm shop, herbal value-added unit, or farmer training center. Agro Forest, Forests, medicinals plants forest. Forest for foods.
💰 Estimated Investment (Initial Setup)
(For Reference – Adapted to Pakistani Costs)
Category Approx. Cost (PKR) its just estimated cost but not confirm may be less or more depending on area, location, person smartness.
Basic Infrastructure (roads, fencing, water, electric)
Estimated but not confirm 20 lakh
* Eco Cottages (8 units) 25 lakh
Café & Kitchen Setup 10 lakh
* Agro Park (rides, play area, animal corner) 15 lakh
* Landscaping, Event Lawn 10 lakh
* Nursery, Compost & Biogas Unit 5 lakh
* Marketing, Signage, Entry Gate 5 lakh
Total Setup Estimate 90 lakh PKR (can vary by region)
🎯 Potential Annual Income Streams
Source Description Estimated Income (PKR/year)*
Farm Entry & Activity Fees Ticket sales, rides, tours 20–30 lakh
Farm Stay / Eco Cottages 6–8 units × weekends & holidays 25–40 lakh
Farm Café & Organic Food Meals, teas, desi food items 30–50 lakh
Organic Produce & Value-Added Products Honey, ghee, herbal powders, pickles, oils 40–60 lakh
Training & School Visits Educational & skill camps 10–20 lakh
Events & Farm Weddings Corporate / family functions 50–100 lakh
Total Estimated Gross Income 1.5 to 3 crore PKR annually
Net Profit (after expenses) 60 lakh to 1.5 crore PKR per year
*Income depends on location, accessibility, management, and marketing.
👩‍🌾 If a Farmer Doesn’t Have 20 Acres
They can form a cooperative model:
4–5 farmers contribute 4–5 acres each.
Create “Joint Agri Tourism Village” — share investment, divide income by area or contribution.
Each farmer can host a unique section (one runs café, one manages livestock, one maintains nursery, etc.)
🌱 Key Benefits
✅ Diversified income beyond crops
✅ Rural youth employment & women participation
✅ Promotes eco-friendly and organic practices
✅ Revives village culture and traditional crafts
✅ Opens farm-to-consumer direct market
✅ Eligible for Punjab Tourism, Agriculture, and SMEDA support and agri finance banks.
🧭 Support Services to Add
* Farmer Training Center (value addition & marketing)
* Weekend Farmers’ Market (local produce sale)
* Agri Branding & Farm Shop for packaged products
* Student learning tours (agriculture, environment, food science)
Collaboration with universities and tourism departments
💡 Tagline Ideas:
“Village Life, Farm Fresh, Naturally Yours!”
" Grow well, Eat well"
“Agri Tourism – Naya Pakistan ka Naya Kisan ka Naya Business”

“From Soil to Soul: Experience Pakistani Agriculture”

📢 Disclaimer:
The estimation of Cost benefit analysis in
This message is being shared for public awareness and farmer guidance purposes only.
The organization or any affiliated body shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use or implementation of this information.

🌿 Invitation 🌿
Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (ATDCP)
Connecting People through Food, Farms & Education
in collaboration with
SA Group, Virsa Agri Farms, Fatina Seeds Pvt. Ltd., and Green Circle Farms
proudly presents
7th ANNUAL GOLDEN PAPAYA FESTIVAL 2025
Celebrate National Papaya Day in Pakistan!
📍 Venue: Anwar Zari Farm, Langowal Chak No. 28 RB, Sanghla Hill, District Nankana
📅 Date: Sunday, 19th October 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🌾 Experience a Day of Learning, Nature & Fun
Come and be part of a unique agri-tourism experience where you can:
🍃 Attend lectures on successful papaya cultivation (domestic & commercial scale)
🧴 Learn value addition and processing techniques for papaya-based products
🍽️ Discover the nutritional and health benefits of eating papaya.
Best marketing practice for papaya farming.
Packaging methods.
🛍️ Explore and taste papaya-based value-added products
🌿 Get introduced to the concept of “Pick Your Own (U-Pick)” Enterprise
🏕️ Enjoy a fun-filled family day, nature walk, and camping site
🥭 Pick your own papayas and pay only for what you pick!
🎟️ Participation and parking is absolutely free!
Bring your family, students, and friends to celebrate Papaya — the Golden Fruit of Health and Prosperity!
👨‍🌾 Organizers & Contact
Sajid Iqbal Sandhu
Expert / Consultant Papaya Farming in Pakistan. National Agriculture Expert.
📞 0321 8669044 | +92 344 4442001
Director General, Directorate General Agri Tourism Punjab
Mian Awais
Director, Fatina Seeds Pvt. Ltd.
📞 +92 321 7953343
For any inquiries about site and location plz contact
Ejaz Ahmad manage
Green Circle Farms
📞 +92 343 8145042
📧 For Registration: agritourism199@gmail.com
🎓 Students from UAF: Contact your Focal Person Dr. Shouqat Sahib,
Senior Tutor, Agri Tourism Club, UAF
🎖️ Special Guest of Honor
Dr. Shahzad Basra
Renowned Expert on Healthy Lifestyle & Natural Foods
🌞 Let’s celebrate health, happiness, and harmony with nature!
Join us at the 7th Annual Golden Papaya Festival 2025 —
because every fruit tells a story, and every farm connects us back to our roots.
www.atdcp.com

🌴 The Amazing Queen Palm Seed – A Hidden Gem in Nature’s Pantry! 🌴

Did you know that the humble seed of the Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) resembles an eye and packs a surprising punch when it comes to its uses in human food? This tropical treasure has been enjoyed by cultures worldwide for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits.

🥥 A Nutritious Treat: Queen palm seeds have a firm, sweet pulp inside that tastes a bit like dates or coconuts. They’re rich in fiber and provide a good source of vitamins A and C, which help support immunity and skin health.

🧉 Culinary Delights: These seeds can be eaten fresh, dried, or even turned into flour for baking. Some people use them in jams, smoothies, or sauces for a natural sweetness with a tropical twist!

🌱 Sustainable & Versatile: Besides being a nutritious snack, they can also serve as a sustainable ingredient in local dishes and can be found in some health food stores as an exotic addition to nutrient-dense diets.

So next time you spot a Queen Palm, remember there’s more to it than just shade and beauty. There’s a delicious snack hiding inside those seed clusters! 🥥✨
Venue:- Dr Atteq Ur Rehman
Latif Bagh Baffa Mansahra

#QueenPalm #NatureKnowsBest #HealthyEating #ExoticFruit #SustainableFoods #agritourism #farmtourism