Global Rice News

Agriculture Growth in Pakistan Slows Down Despite Public Spending

The agriculture sector in Pakistan plays a vital role in terms of employment, social impact, livelihood, and foreign exchange. However, the country’s increasing population and urbanization rate are putting pressure on the sector. Despite significant public spending and support from development partners, agriculture growth has recently slowed down to below three percent, down from an average of over four percent per year between 1970 and 2000.

Growing Population and Food Demand

With Pakistan’s population reaching around 241.5 million and an annual growth rate of 2.51%, the country faces the challenge of feeding millions more people. This requires a substantial increase in agricultural productivity.

The Role of Biotechnology in Agriculture

Biotechnology presents a crucial opportunity to address the growing challenges in agriculture and support food security goals. It offers farmers tools to improve production efficiency and reduce costs. For example, biotech crops can be engineered to tolerate herbicides, simplifying weed control. Developing regions like Kenya, India, and Africa recognize the significance of biotechnology and are investing in research and development.

Biotech crops provide promising solutions to enhance productivity, reduce crop losses, and improve nutritional content. They make insect pest control and weed management safer and easier while protecting crops against disease. Pakistan has adopted genetically engineered insect-resistant cotton, resulting in increased yields and reduced pest damage.

Drought-Tolerant and Pest-Resistant Crops

Pakistan is vulnerable to droughts, which strongly impact water scarcity, food security, and the country’s agro-economics. Biotechnology has enabled the development of drought-tolerant crop varieties that can thrive in water-stressed conditions. Research has shown promising results in developing drought-resistant wheat varieties, one of Pakistan’s staple crops. Biotech crops engineered to resist pests have also significantly reduced crop losses.

Enhanced Nutritional Content

Malnutrition remains a critical issue in Pakistan. Agricultural biotechnology can enhance the nutritional content of staple crops, such as rice, by increasing levels of micronutrients and vitamins. For example, genetically modified Golden Rice produces beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. Adopting biofortified crops could combat vitamin A deficiency and improve overall nutrition.

Reduced Post-Harvest Losses

Pakistan faces significant post-harvest losses in the agricultural sector due to spoilage and pests during transportation and storage. Biotechnology offers innovative solutions to reduce these losses. Developing genetically modified crops with longer shelf lives can ensure that more food reaches consumers.

Challenges and Regulation

However, biotechnology faces challenges in terms of public perception, lack of awareness, misinformation, and myths. Pakistan has taken steps towards addressing these challenges by establishing the National Biosafety Centre and the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency. These institutions play a crucial role in assessing biotech crop safety, spreading awareness, and eradicating misinformation.

With increasing population and challenges, Pakistan must embrace biotechnology in agriculture to ensure a secure and prosperous future. Encouraging collaborations and investing in research and development are crucial steps towards harnessing the potential of biotechnology. Strategic adoption of biotechnology will transform Pakistan’s agriculture sector and strengthen the nation’s commitment to food security.

Source: Daily Times