Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the early formulation of a comprehensive National Agriculture Policy in consultation with the provinces. He also ordered the establishment of an 'Agriculture Apex Forum' to hold monthly meetings for effective implementation of the agriculture innovation and growth plan.
High-Level Review Meeting on Agriculture Reforms
The prime minister chaired a high-level review meeting on the transformation of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research and reforms in the agriculture sector, according to a press release from the PM Office Media Wing. The meeting was attended by Ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar and Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, PM’s Coordinator on Agriculture Ahmad Umair, and senior officials.
Zarkhez-e Agricultural Loan Programme Awareness Campaign
To improve farmers’ access to affordable financing, the prime minister directed the launch of a nationwide awareness campaign for the 'Zarkhez-e Agricultural Loan Programme'. This initiative aims to educate farmers about available financial support and encourage uptake of agricultural loans.
Focus on Agricultural Research and Modernization
Emphasizing the importance of agricultural research, PM Shehbaz Sharif said the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) should be developed into a real centre for agricultural innovation and research. He observed that Pakistan’s agriculture sector has the potential to drive sustainable economic growth, adding that improved seed quality, modern farming technologies, and the timely availability of water and fertilizers would significantly enhance per-acre crop yields.
Value Addition, Warehousing, and Storage Systems
The prime minister also stressed the need to promote value addition in agricultural produce, improve warehousing facilities, and develop modern storage systems. During the meeting, officials presented proposals aimed at reforming the agriculture sector. It was noted that the National Agricultural Research Center (NARC) was producing multi-grain flour on a pilot basis.
AI-Based Application for Crop Pest Management
The meeting was briefed on the development of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based application designed to help farmers identify and effectively manage crop pests and diseases. This digital tool is expected to improve crop protection and reduce losses.
Financial Support and Policy Approvals
The relevant officials informed the prime minister that the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited would provide financial support to improve farmers’ access to agricultural loans. The meeting was apprised that the National Seed Policy and the National Agriculture Biotechnology Policy had recently been approved, while consultations on the Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy had been completed and the policy would soon be submitted for approval. Consultations are also underway on a National Wheat Policy as well as several livestock-related policies.
Condolences for Saudi Helicopter Crash
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief over the tragic helicopter crash in Ras Tanura, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which claimed the lives of 14 Saudi nationals. On behalf of the people and Government of Pakistan, he extended heartfelt condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the bereaved families, and the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia. He reiterated that Pakistan stood in full solidarity with its Saudi brothers and sisters in that hour of grief. Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to convey condolences. Prince Faisal thanked Dar and deeply appreciated the brotherly gesture. The two leaders also discussed recent developments in the region and expressed deep concern over the evolving situation.
