Agriculture plays a vital role in Pakistan's economy, providing employment for a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the country's GDP. To bolster this crucial sector, the government has implemented various programs and partnerships aimed at increasing productivity, enhancing sustainability, and improving the livelihoods of farmers. This article explores some of the key initiatives that are driving agricultural development in Pakistan.
Climate-Smart Agriculture in Balochistan
On July 13, 2023, the Government of Balochistan (GoB) signed a Unilateral Trust Fund (UTF) agreement with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to promote climate-smart practices in agriculture and fisheries. This collaboration, part of the Gwadar - Lasbela Livelihood Support Project (GLLSP-II), is financed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The project aims to develop climate-resilient agriculture and livestock farming systems, empowering smallholder farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to build resilience against climate change. Implemented through the Farmer Field School (FFS) approach, the project creates an inclusive learning environment for farmers to share knowledge and develop practical skills. Moreover, GLLSP-II emphasizes gender equality and youth engagement, ensuring all community members benefit from the program. This initiative is expected to benefit 100,000 rural households in the Gwadar and Lasbela districts by training 30,000 farmers and enhancing their capacity for climhttps://www.oliveoiltimes.com/business/pakistani-government-launches-agricultural-development-program/109836ate resilience.
National Action Plan for Agricultural Modernization
The Government of Pakistan has launched a comprehensive national action plan aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector to improve yields and sustainability. This plan includes the deployment of new technologies in the fields, enhancements in processing facilities, and the development of aquaculture. A critical aspect of this initiative is the mechanization of harvesting and post-harvesting processes, which is expected to increase efficiency and productivity. Additionally, the plan includes investments in germplasm resources and fishery science, aimed at improving the quality and sustainability of agricultural and fishery products. Establishing foot-and-mouth disease-free zones is another crucial intervention to improve livestock health, thereby enhancing overall productivity in the livestock sector. The plan aims for nearly 4% growth in the agricultural sector for the next fiscal year, contingent on the recovery of key crops like cotton and wheat and the resolution of water scarcity issues.
International Collaborations and Investments
International collaborations play a significant role in supporting Pakistan's agricultural sector. FAO is a key player in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving resilience among farmers. Through its Farmer Field Schools and Farmer Business Schools, FAO provides platforms for knowledge exchange and capacity building, empowering farmers with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge. These programs help farmers adopt modern techniques, improve productivity, and gain better market access. FAO also focuses on mitigating the impacts of climate change on agriculture by promoting sustainable farming practices and resilient agricultural systems.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is another crucial partner, working to enhance agricultural productivity in Pakistan. USAID's initiatives include developing new crop varieties, improving farm management practices, and increasing farmers' access to improved technologies and irrigation water. By helping agricultural entrepreneurs access financing and add value to their produce, USAID aims to boost incomes and link farmers to more lucrative markets. Additionally, USAID supports economic policy reforms to create a more conducive business environment for Pakistani companies, including regulatory improvements and modernizing trade systems.
Subsidies for Fertilizers and Seeds
To further support farmers, the government has introduced several subsidy schemes for fertilizers and seeds, particularly in Punjab. The E-Voucher Based Fertilizer Subsidy provides financial assistance on various fertilizers, such as DAP, NP, SSP, SOP, MOP, and NPK, making them more affordable for farmers. Each fertilizer bag includes a voucher that registered farmers can use to claim their subsidy through a designated branchless banking operator. This initiative aims to promote balanced fertilizer use, which is essential for maintaining soil health and increasing crop yields. Similarly, an E-Voucher Based Cotton Seed Subsidy has been introduced in the cotton-growing regions of Multan, D.G. Khan, and Bahawalpur. This program provides a subsidy on selected certified cotton seed varieties to encourage the use of high-quality seeds, leading to better crop yields and higher profits for farmers .
Additionally, the Potash Subsidy Scheme, launched in FY 2018-19, promotes the use of potash fertilizers by providing subsidies via E-vouchers. This scheme has led to increased usage of potash fertilizers, enhancing crop productivity across Punjab. The government has also introduced a subsidy for gram cultivation, providing certified seeds to farmers to improve yield and production. This initiative is particularly significant for districts like Bhakkar, Mianwali, and Khushab, which are major gram-producing areas .
Addressing Water Scarcity
Water scarcity poses a significant challenge to Pakistan's agricultural productivity. The government, alongside international organizations, is working on initiatives to improve water management and infrastructure. Workshops and policy support efforts aim to enhance water governance, reduce water waste, and ensure the availability of clean drinking water. Improving water governance is crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and addressing the impacts of climate change. According to the World Wildlife Fund Pakistan, better water governance and infrastructure are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and ensure food security .
Conclusion
The government of Pakistan, in collaboration with international organizations like FAO, IFAD, and USAID, is actively promoting agricultural development through various initiatives. These efforts aim to modernize agriculture, enhance climate resilience, improve water management, and support smallholder farmers. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering inclusive growth, these initiatives are paving the way for a sustainable and food-secure future for Pakistan.
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