Senate told agriculture sector drives 2.9 per cent of GDP

WEB DESK: On Monday, Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, addressed the Upper House of Parliament, highlighting the resilience of Pakistan’s agriculture sector despite the adverse effects of climate change.

The sector contributes 2.9 per cent to the national GDP and accounts for 37.4 per cent of livelihoods nationwide, according to the Country’s Economic Survey for the Financial Year 2022-23.

Responding to Senator Dr Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), who raised concerns about climate change’s impact on agriculture, Senator Tarar emphasized the importance of the Indus Water Treaty. He noted that the treaty, facilitated by the World Bank, has prevented India from obstructing cross-border water management negotiations.

Senator Tarar outlined the severe challenges posed by climate change, particularly due to Pakistan’s geographical location. The 2022 floods, for example, devastated 4.4 million acres of crops, killed one million livestock, and affected millions of people. In response, the government has introduced the Kisan Package 2022, offering subsidized seeds and agricultural medicines, climate-resilient seeds, and improved water management practices.

He further highlighted the National Adaptation Plan, which requires $152 billion by 2030 to implement. The Living Indus Initiative and the Recharge Pakistan project, costing $57 million, aim to conserve rain and flood water. Additionally, a $35 million Climate Impact Agriculture research and planning project is underway.

Senator Dr Zarqa underscored the urgency of addressing climate change, noting that Pakistan, home to the world’s second-highest number of glaciers, is experiencing rapid glacier melt. She warned of the conversion of 34 per cent of arable land to non-agricultural uses and the exploitation of farmers, citing the wheat scandal as an example.

Senator Zeeshan Khanzada of PTI stressed the need for Pakistan to advocate for climate finance on global platforms and to construct dams to protect agricultural land. He highlighted that the region is highly vulnerable to floods, which degrade soil quality and threaten food security.

The Deputy Chairman of the Senate concluded the debate, acknowledging the significance of the issues raised and disposing of the agenda.

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