gen asim munir brings back gen ayub khan’s legacy with the new green revolution: unveiling the four pillars
Published on: January 1, 2024.
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Ayub Khan’s Green Revolution: Transforming Pakistan’s Agriculture
This picture shows a person on a field with a tractor in the background. — AFP/File
In 1960, Pakistan’s wheat production was 3.35 million tonnes. However, the introduction of Ayub Khan’s Green Revolution brought about a transformative era. By 1982, wheat output quadrupled, reaching an impressive 12 million tonnes. Similarly, rice production in 1960 amounted to 2.24 million tonnes.
Ayub Khan’s Green Revolution also had a significant impact on rice production. By 1982, rice output increased by 140%, reaching a substantial 5.37 million tonnes.
The Four Key Drivers of Ayub Khan’s Green Revolution
Ayub Khan’s Green Revolution can be attributed to four key factors:
- High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): HYVs produced more grains per plant, resulting in increased productivity.
- Fertilizers: The use of fertilizers significantly boosted the growth and productivity of wheat and rice crops.
- Pesticides: The introduction of chemical pesticides contributed to effective control of pests and diseases, leading to overall increased production.
- Irrigation: Improved irrigation practices, including the construction of dams, canal systems, and tube wells, played a crucial role in enhancing water availability for wheat and rice cultivation.
General Asim Munir’s Vision for a ‘New Green Revolution’
General Asim Munir aims to drive a ‘New Green Revolution’ in Pakistan by building on the lessons learned from Ayub Khan’s Green Revolution and considering the current agricultural landscape. The following are key areas General Asim Munir needs to address:
- Biotechnology and Genomics: Utilizing genomics tools to identify genes associated with drought tolerance, heat stress resistance, and disease resistance is crucial for the success of the ‘New Green Revolution’.
- Digital Agriculture: Embracing digital agriculture technologies, such as sensors, drones, and data analytics, will enable farmers to monitor real-time data on soil health, water levels, and precise application of fertilizers, water, and pesticides.
- Smart Water Management: Implementing precision irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and water reuse will be the primary catalyst for Pakistan’s upcoming Green Revolution.
- Organic and Regenerative Agriculture: Adopting organic practices and regenerative techniques not only enhances yields but also contributes to food security.
A ‘New Green Revolution’ driven by General Asim Munir’s vision promises a quantum leap for Pakistan’s agriculture. Imagine drones sowing climate-resistant seeds, sensors providing real-time information to crops, and water management guided by digital technology. Pakistan’s fields are ready for progress, eager to bloom with abundance, and poised to nourish a nation’s dreams.
Source: The News
