Planning ministry strengthens initiatives for agricultural sector projects
Published on: October 30, 2023.
Filed under:
Government of Pakistan Intensifies Efforts in Agriculture Sector
The Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives has ramped up its efforts to implement agricultural projects, marking the sector as a top priority. In the current fiscal year, several projects worth billions of rupees have been allocated to the agriculture sector under the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP 2023-24).
Pakistan’s agricultural sector is well-integrated and contributes 22.9 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It also plays a crucial role in job creation, food security, and the supply of raw materials for industries. Recognizing its vast potential for foreign investment, the government aims to attract investments in agriculture.
The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), established to encourage foreign and local investment, has identified agriculture as one of its key focus areas. Alongside other sectors, the Council aims to accelerate the implementation of agriculture-related projects.
Key Projects in the Agriculture Sector
Under the current initiatives, several projects have been initiated to boost the agriculture sector:
- Cage Culture Cluster Development Project: This project aims to promote cage culture fisheries, creating opportunities for fish farmers.
- Commercialisation of Potato Tissue Culture Technology in Pakistan: This project focuses on commercializing potato tissue culture technology to improve potato yields.
- Establishment of consumer-sourcing seed authenticity system: This project aims to establish a system to ensure the authenticity and quality of consumer-sourced seeds.
- Strengthening of Labs of FSC&RD: This project focuses on enhancing the capacity of labs for Food Safety and Control, Research, and Development.
- Establishment of Plant Breeders Rights Registry and Strengthening of DUS Examination System: This project aims to strengthen the examination system for distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) of plant varieties.
These are just a few among the numerous projects initiated to enhance the productivity and efficiency of the agriculture sector, ultimately contributing to the national economy.
Prime Minister’s Initiatives for Green Revolution 2.0
The Prime Minister’s Initiatives for Green Revolution 2.0, with an allocation of Rs5,000 million, is a landmark project to address the key constraints faced by the agriculture sector. The project emphasizes the promotion of technology, value addition, and engagement of women and youth in agri-business.
Recognizing the importance of fruits and vegetables, the government has also launched the “Horticulture Support Programme,” worth Rs1,000 million. This project aims to reduce losses in horticultural crops and strengthen value chains through the integration of value-adding technologies.
Promoting Sustainable Practices
As part of its commitment to sustainability, the government is initiating the “Prime Minister’s National Programme for Solarisation of Agricultural Tubewells in Pakistan.” With a budget of Rs377,017 million, this project aims to convert 100,000 tubewells into solar-powered systems, reducing reliance on diesel and electric tube wells.
To optimize land utilization, a Land Information and Management System, Centre of Excellence (LIMS-CoE), has been established. This system aims to digitize agriculture, providing real-time information to farmers regarding soil, crops, weather, water resources, and pest monitoring.
The government’s initiatives in the agriculture sector are geared towards modernizing farming practices, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainability. These efforts are crucial for the growth and development of Pakistan’s agricultural industry.
Source: https://www.nation.com.pk
