Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the swift formulation of a comprehensive National Agriculture Policy in consultation with the provinces. He issued the directive while chairing an important review meeting in Islamabad on the restructuring of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research and reforms in the agriculture sector.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister also called for the establishment of an apex forum for agriculture, which will convene monthly meetings to ensure the effective implementation of the Agriculture Innovation and Growth Plan. Additionally, he instructed the launch of a nationwide awareness campaign for the Zarkhez-e Agricultural Loan Programme to enhance farmers' access to easy agricultural financing. He emphasized the need to transform the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council into a true centre of excellence for agricultural research.
Highlighting the significance of the agriculture sector, Shehbaz Sharif noted its potential to propel Pakistan toward sustainable economic growth. He mentioned that the provision of quality seeds, modern farming technologies, and the timely availability of water and fertilizers are crucial for significantly enhancing per-acre crop yields. The Prime Minister further stressed the importance of focusing on the value addition of agricultural produce, improved warehousing, and modern storage systems.
The meeting was informed that the National Agricultural Research Centre has initiated pilot production of multigrain flour. It was also briefed about the development of an Artificial Intelligence-based application designed to assist farmers in effectively detecting and controlling crop pests and diseases.
Moreover, it was said that the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited will offer financial support to facilitate farmers' access to easy loans. The meeting was also updated on recent approvals, including the National Seed Policy and the National Agriculture Biotechnology Policy. Consultations on the Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy have been completed, and the policy will soon be submitted for approval. Ongoing consultations on a National Wheat Policy and various policies related to the livestock sector were also discussed.