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As part of an initiative by the Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, a media excursion was organized for media representatives and bloggers to the State Reserve 'Borsakelmash,' which is part of the Department of Protected Natural Territories under the Committee on Ecology and Climate Change.

Creation and Territory of the Reserve

This state reserve was established in accordance with the Decree of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated September 27, 2022, on the creation of the State Reserve 'Borsakelmash' in the Republic of Karakalpakstan. It is located in the Kungirot district on the Ustyurt Plateau and covers an area of 280 thousand hectares, of which 44 thousand hectares are designated as a protection zone.

Goals of Nature Conservation

The main goal of creating the reserve is to preserve unique natural objects and complexes, rare plant and animal species, as well as their genetic fund. Tasks also include restoring these objects, preventing negative impacts of human activity on nature, and studying natural processes. Therefore, the natural communities and landscapes within the reserve, including rare and endangered flora and fauna species, are key conservation targets.

Biological Diversity

Seventy-five species of animals and plants have been registered in the reserve territory, 12 of which are included in the Red Book of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Murat Asenov, an environmental monitoring and natural complex cadastre specialist at the reserve, noted that the local fauna includes 18 species of mammals, five of which are rare and require special attention. These include predatory mammals of the canid family: the Asal Borzyk, Turkmen Karakol, gazelle, and the endangered Turkmen Kulon.

Additionally, 46 bird species are listed in the Red Book, including valuable species such as Tuvaloq, Burgut, and swan. Four reptile species out of eleven snake species have protection status. Eastern vipers, adapted to the sharp continental climate and feeding on insects, as well as colorful kaltakesaki, are widely distributed in the Kyzylkum, Zarafshan Valley and mountains, Fergana Valley, and Surkhandarya province, as well as in the desert and semi-desert regions of Eurasia.

The plant world is represented by 29 species, four of which are under state protection.

The Secret of the Salt Lake

The initial point of visit was the salt lake 'Borsakelmash.' Experts emphasized that this is a unique remnant of the ancient Pacific Ocean, which disappeared 21 million years ago. This giant salt flat is 75 kilometers long, 70 to 72 kilometers wide, and 30 to 60 meters deep, with a total reserve of 105 billion tons. Currently, this enormous salt lake is 90 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide, and raw materials are extracted from it for a factory in Kungirot.

Legends of the 'Devil's Fortress'

There are many legends about the origin of the name 'Borsakelmash.' According to these tales, an ancient city known as the 'Devil's Fortress' was located in the center of the salt lake. This city belonged to Farasman, a member of the Siyovushi dynasty, who ruled in Ancient Khwarazm in the 4th century BC and is considered a historical figure who maintained his state's independence through diplomacy. Many people died trying to seize these gold reserves. Hence the expression 'if you enter, you will not return,' which gave the place its name.

The name 'Borsakelmash' truly corresponds to the location because movement across the lake is extremely dangerous. The lake has many deep spots covered by a thin layer of salt that can lure one into unknown abysses.

Safety and Working Conditions

Reserve staff told the excursion participants about various legends passed down through generations concerning the 'Devil's Fortress.' They noted that at sunset, shadows and salt create amazing images of black walls and minarets, and approaching them is dangerous because one can disappear without a trace. Under such conditions, strict adherence to safety rules is critical: movement must only be in groups, exercising extreme caution and not separating from companions. Deep cracks and pits are hidden beneath the visible salt crust.

Participants also learned about the living conditions of the staff. Sixteen reserve employees conduct continuous patrol monitoring during a 10-day shift. Special underground dwellings have been built for them to ensure the quality execution of their duties. Solar panels have been installed and a 12-meter high 'observation station' has been erected to improve conditions. Staff use specialized observation equipment and are provided with modern communication tools and online maps to monitor the reserve's flora and fauna. Employees diligently perform their duties regardless of cold winter days or hot summers.

Historical Sites in the Vicinity

As part of the media tour, participants visited the healing spring called Gurkireuk in the village of Alankala, and also made a pilgrimage to the grave of the Kazakh hero Ersheboy, who lived in the late 18th – early 19th century, at his place of blessing. The unique nature, vast and mysterious places, diverse world of flora and fauna, historical fortresses, and natural wonders of Lake 'Borsakelmash' left an unforgettable impression on everyone.

During a practical roundtable and exhibition held for farmers in the Boyovut district of Syrdarya region, issues such as maintaining cotton yield under abnormal heat, implementing water-saving technologies, effectively utilizing the Shenzhou technology from China, and achieving high yields from repeat plantings were discussed.

Participants and Goals of the Event

The event was organized at the initiative of the Republican Council of Farmers and its Syrdarya regional branch, based at the Syrdarya scientific experiment station located at the National Center for Knowledge and Agricultural Innovation, on the territory of the 'Hasanboy–Khusanboy' farm. Specialists from the Republic Council of Farmers, its regional and district branches, the Syrdarya Agro-industrial Services Center, the Quarantine and Plant Protection Department, the Veterinary and Livestock Development Department, scientists, leading farmers, and representatives of the agricultural sector took part in it.

The meeting discussed reforms aimed at modernizing the country's agriculture, the wide implementation of scientific and technological achievements in production, the rational use of land and water resources, the cultivation of export-oriented agricultural products, as well as the continuous improvement of farmers' knowledge and qualifications.

The Importance of Innovations in Climate Conditions

It was emphasized that the key factor in achieving high yields under changing climate conditions, water scarcity, and severe heat is the widespread application of innovative technologies, timely execution of scientifically based agrotechnical measures, and strict adherence to specialists' recommendations. Therefore, the seminar continued not only with theoretical discussions but also with practical field sessions.

Specialists provided scientifically grounded recommendations on applying the Shenzhou technology in cotton farming, expanding drip irrigation systems, effective use of microfertilizers, monitoring crops using agrodrones, and reducing the negative impact of abnormal heat.

Statistics and Farmer Support

It is reported that this year 75,220 hectares of cotton have been sown in the Syrdarya region, of which 50,000 hectares have implemented a drip irrigation system based on Shenzhou technology. This is of great importance for ensuring sustainable plant development, prudent use of water resources, and increasing yield.

The event was opened by Ilhomjon Alimov, the regional representative of the Fund for Farmer Support under the Republican Council of Farmers of Uzbekistan. He noted that large-scale reforms in the agricultural sector, the introduction of science and innovation, improving farmers' qualifications, and their financial support are sustainable directions of state policy. Alimov also stressed that the Fund carries out systematic work in this area; specifically, 6.4 billion UZS has been allocated for supporting farmers, dehqan farms, and other agricultural enterprises in the Syrdarya region in the first half of 2026: 5.1 billion UZS for the purchase of agricultural machinery and equipment, and 1.3 billion UZS for forming working capital for farms.

Cotton Farming Advice

Doniyor Tozhiboev, a researcher at the Syrdarya Agro-industrial Services Center, pointed out that July is the most critical period for cotton yield formation. He stated that under the current abnormal heat, it is extremely important to preserve every boll. It is necessary to maintain soil moisture at 60–70%, carry out watering, cultivation, and weeding on time. At this stage, one of the most important factors is the correct and timely use of microfertilizers. Fertilizers rich in humus, iron, and other microelements positively affect the full formation of bolls and improve crop quality.

According to Tozhiboev, achieving a noticeable increase in yield is possible by fully implementing eight important agrotechnical recommendations developed by the Ministry of Agriculture and industry scientists. Participants were also presented with a joint application from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Republican Council of Farmers for farmers and dehqans.

Recommendations and Practical Tips

Within the framework of the seminar, the meaning of the joint appeal from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Republican Council of Farmers to farmers and dehqans was conveyed. It was noted that this year 889.5 thousand hectares of cotton are grown in the republic, of which 305.2 thousand hectares are using the Shenzhou technology. Special attention was paid to the fact that the second half of July and the first ten days of August are a critical period determining the fate of the cotton, and every farm must immediately organize watering, cultivation, weeding, and plant protection according to the 'Dolzarb – 20 days' plan.

Zayniddin Faizullaev, a specialist from the Republican Council of Farmers, informed farmers about modern cotton farming technologies and explained the advantages of using the Etefon preparation starting from August 1st. He clarified that Etefon is not a herbicide but a modern agrotechnological agent that ensures simultaneous ripening and boll opening. Its application within the established deadlines and doses improves crop quality, increases harvesting efficiency, and promotes simultaneous cotton ripening.

Specialists from the Syrdarya Quarantine and Plant Protection Department gave practical advice on combating pests and diseases in cotton farming. Currently, the fight against pests such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips is being conducted using chemical and biological methods. It was also reported that there are sufficient stocks of special preparations to mitigate the negative effects of abnormal heat in the regions.

Conclusion and Farmer Experience

During the seminar, farmers received comprehensive answers to their questions from specialists and exchanged views on the practical results of scientific recommendations. Omon Kholgulov, head of the 'Hasanboy–Khusanboy' farm, emphasized that such practical seminars become a true school of experience for farmers. He noted that the president constantly emphasizes the possibility of achieving high results by relying on science, and they learn from scientists and specialists. The farmer said that this year the abnormal heat further highlighted the importance of every recommendation. On his 100 hectares of land, 60 hectares are planted with wheat, and 40 hectares with cotton using Shenzhou technology. The released areas were sown with millet as a secondary crop. The knowledge gained at the seminar will be an important guide for achieving a high yield.

At the end of the event, participants familiarized themselves with practical instructions on growing cotton, effective use of microfertilizers, application of water-saving technologies, and combating pests and diseases at the cotton field exhibition. Specialists answered all the farmers' questions, once again clarifying the importance of timely execution of scientifically based agrotechnical measures under the slogan 'Treat your cotton additionally and increase your yield.' It was emphasized that every agrotechnical measure performed on time and scientifically lays a solid foundation for an abundant future harvest. The synchronization of science, innovation, and best practices with agricultural development creates a solid basis for sustainable growth, achieving high yields from every hectare, increasing farmers' income, and strengthening national food security.

The active process of digitalizing banking services continues in Uzbekistan. One of the significant trends in the country's financial system is the expansion of bank card usage by the population, the growth of non-cash transactions, and the development of payment infrastructure.

Statistics on Cards and Payments

According to data from the Central Bank, as of July 1, 2026, the total number of bank cards in circulation in the republic amounted to 74.6 million. This figure exceeds the beginning-of-year figure by 6.3 million, which means more than one million new cards are issued monthly. This growth indicates an increasing need and trust of the population in modern banking services.

In the context of the digital economy, bank cards have become not only a means of receiving salary or pension but also the most convenient tool for making daily payments, online shopping, interacting with government services, money transfers, and various financial operations.

Development of Payment Infrastructure

Positive changes are also observed in the payment infrastructure. In the first half of the current year, the number of ATMs and info kiosks increased by 6.6 thousand, reaching 46.7 thousand units. The number of POS terminals exceeded 17.3 thousand and reached 448.1 thousand. This expands the possibilities for making non-cash payments at trade and service points.

According to statistical data, the volume of payments made through POS terminals in January–June 2026 exceeded 322.5 trillion sums, confirming the increase in the share of non-cash transactions in the country year over year.

Leaders in Banking Services Market

Regarding the number of cards in circulation, People's Bank leads with 12 million cards. Following it are Uzum Bank (7 million), Agrobank (6.8 million), Ipoteka-Bank (5.6 million), and Hamkorbank (5 million).

People's Bank also leads in the network of ATMs and info kiosks, operating 3,132 ATMs and info kiosks across the republic. The next positions are held by Agrobank (1,823 units), Kapitalbank (1,669 units), Invest Finance Bank (1,426 units), and Ipoteka-Bank (1,109 units).

Overall, the semi-annual indicators demonstrate the active development of digital banking services in the country, strengthening competition between banks, and improving the quality and convenience of provided services. This contributes to expanding the population's ability to use financial services, increasing the share of the non-cash economy, and developing the digital economy.