Omni Private Ltd., formerly Shikarpur Rice Mills, stands as one of the largest rice mills in Pakistan, significantly influencing the economy of the Shikarpur district in Sindh. Positioned in the heart of the country’s prime rice-growing area, including the districts of Shikarpur, Larkana, and Jacobabad, the mill benefits from and contributes to these major rice-producing regions.
A Catalyst for Economic Growth
Acquired by Omni Group in June 2000, Omni Private Ltd. has been a catalyst for economic growth and development in the region. Under the leadership of founder and chairman Khawaja Anver Majid and Group Chief Executive Officer Khawaja Abdul Ghani Majid, the company has invested heavily in advanced technologies and sustainable practices, resulting in substantial economic benefits.
Job Creation and Employment
Omni Private Ltd. directly employs over 50 individuals, providing stable and well-paying jobs in an area where employment opportunities are often limited. The mill’s operations also support countless indirect jobs in the local economy, including roles in agriculture, transportation, and supply chain management. This employment boost helps reduce poverty and improves living standards in the region.
Advanced Processing and Increased Productivity
With its state-of-the-art husking, polishing, finishing, and processing units from Japan, America, Australia, Italy, and Canada, Omni Private Ltd. processes both long grain Basmati and medium grain rice varieties efficiently. The mill’s high processing capacity of 18 metric tons per hour surpasses the combined capacity of other rice mills in Sindh and Baluchistan, which typically do not exceed 2 metric tons. This enhanced productivity not only supports local farmers by providing a reliable market for their produce but also contributes to the overall economic stability of the region.
Quality and Storage Innovations
Omni Private Ltd. is the only rice mill in Pakistan with humidity and temperature-controlled American “Buffer” and “Kennedy” silos, capable of storing 20,400 metric tons of paddy. These advanced storage facilities ensure the preservation of rice quality and reduce post-harvest losses, leading to more consistent market supplies and better pricing for farmers.
Supporting Local Agriculture
By purchasing rice from local farmers and providing them with a stable and reliable market, Omni Private Ltd. supports the agricultural community. This relationship encourages sustainable farming practices and enhances the overall productivity and profitability of local agriculture. The company’s range of products—including Basmati White Rice, Basmati Brown Rice, Irri White Rice, and Irri Para Boiled Rice—caters to diverse market needs, ensuring continuous demand for locally grown rice.
Leadership and Community Impact
The leadership team at Omni Private Ltd., including Directors Khawaja Mustafa Majid, Khawaja Ali Kamal Majid, and Khawaja Nimr Majid, along with Group Chief Operating Officer Khawaja Salman Younis, plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s economic contributions. Their strategic vision and commitment to innovation and sustainability have positioned the company as a key economic driver in the region.
Economic Multiplier Effect
The presence of Omni Private Ltd. has a multiplier effect on the local economy. The mill’s operations generate additional business for local suppliers, transport companies, and service providers, further enhancing economic activity and job creation in the region. This ripple effect supports the overall economic health and resilience of the community.
Conclusion
Omni Private Ltd. has a profound economic impact on the Shikarpur district and the broader Sindh region. Through advanced technology, substantial job creation, and support for local agriculture, the company under the Omni Group’s leadership contributes significantly to regional economic growth and development. The efforts of Khawaja Anver Majid, Khawaja Abdul Ghani Majid, and their team ensure that Omni Private Ltd. remains a cornerstone of economic stability and prosperity in Pakistan’s rice-growing heartland.
