Attshan Ali Abbasi
Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, employing nearly 40% of the workforce and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the agricultural sector accounted for 24.4% of the country’s GDP in 2020. However, the sector faces numerous challenges, including low productivity, water scarcity, and limited access to markets.
Facts and Figures:
– Pakistan’s agricultural sector is the largest employer in the country, providing livelihoods to over 40% of the workforce.
– The sector contributes significantly to the country’s GDP, accounting for 24.4% in 2020.
– Pakistan is the 5th largest producer of wheat, 4th largest producer of cotton, and 2nd largest producer of rice in Asia.
– The country has a vast irrigation system, with over 50% of the agricultural land under irrigation.
– Pakistan’s agricultural exports account for over 20% of the country’s total exports.
International Successful Models:
Let us draw inspiration from the success stories of agricultural rich countries like the USA, China, Brazil, Australia, and the Netherlands, where innovative farming practices, cutting-edge technology, and effective policy-making have transformed the agricultural sector into a vibrant and productive industry.
Challenges:
– Low productivity: Pakistan’s agricultural productivity is significantly lower than other countries in the region.
– Water scarcity: Pakistan is facing severe water scarcity, with the per capita water availability decreasing by 40% over the past 50 years.
– Limited access to markets: Pakistani farmers face significant challenges in accessing domestic and international markets.
– Lack of technology and innovation: The sector lacks modern technology and innovation, leading to inefficiencies and low productivity.
The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of agriculture and the responsibility of humans to cultivate and care for the earth. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 164, it is written: “And it is He who has made the earth subservient to you, so walk in its paths and eat from His provision.” This verse highlights the significance of agriculture and the need to utilize the earth’s resources wisely.
Suggestions for Improvement:
– Increase investment in agricultural research and development to improve productivity and efficiency.
– Implement modern irrigation systems and water management techniques to conserve water and reduce waste.
– Enhance access to credit and financial services for farmers to improve their livelihoods and productivity.
– Promote value addition and export-oriented production to increase the competitiveness of Pakistani agricultural products in international markets.
– Encourage private sector investment in agriculture to improve efficiency and productivity.
– Develop and implement inclusive agricultural policies and programs to address the needs of all players in the agricultural value chain.
International Collaboration:
– Collaborate with international organizations, research institutions, and countries with expertise in agriculture to facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and investment in the sector.
– Develop partnerships with international companies and organizations to improve access to markets and technology.
– Encourage foreign investment in agriculture to improve efficiency and productivity.
Here are some District level areas that need improvement in Pakistan:
– Facilitate formulation and enforcement of a policy on minimum economic farm size based on digitized cadastral maps and an electronic land titling system.
– Pass and enforce laws to check the mushrooming growth of tube wells and the high rate of abstraction.
– Enable fair competition in the agricultural marketing system at all levels.
– Ensure private seed companies a level playing field and access to basic seed and plant materials developed by public researchers.
– Target fertilizer subsidies to small and marginal farmers.
– Disseminate information on safe pesticide use.
– Explore opportunities for integrating farmers, supermarkets, processors, and exporters into value chains.
– Improve governance to expand the private sector’s role in the sector.
Recommendations for the Prime Minister:
1. Declare agriculture a national priority and launch a national agricultural development program.
2. Allocate dedicated funding for agricultural research and development.
3. Establish a high-level task force on agricultural development.
4. Engage with farmers, civil society organizations, and private sector stakeholders to develop and implement policies.
5. Encourage private sector investment in agriculture.
6. Leverage technology and innovation to improve agricultural productivity, efficiency, and sustainability.
7. Develop and implement inclusive agricultural policies and programs.
8. Ensure access to credit and financial services for farmers.
9. Improve governance and reduce corruption in the agricultural sector.
10. Monitor and evaluate progress regularly to ensure the success of the agriculture revolution.
Revolutionizing Pakistan’s agricultural sector requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the challenges facing the sector and harnesses the power of international collaboration, cutting-edge technology, and inclusive policy-making. By adopting sustainable agricultural practices, leveraging technology and innovation, and promoting inclusive policy-making, Pakistan can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector and ensure food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.
About the Writer:
Mr. Attshan Ali Abbasi, a distinguished M Phil Public Policy scholar, Director of the National Youth Assembly of Pakistan, and accomplished author of the first-ever academic research on the Parliament of Pakistan, also serves as the CEO of Nishan Group of Companies, bringing a wealth of expertise and leadership to the forefront of policy and development initiatives.”
