PM orders new agriculture policy to boost farm sector growth

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday ordered the immediate drafting of a comprehensive national agricultural policy and the creation of a new apex body to fast-track innovation and growth in the farming sector.

Presiding over a review meeting on restructuring the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, PM Sharif said that the agriculture sector holds the key to putting the country on a path of sustainable economic growth.

The proposed apex forum will hold monthly meetings to ensure the effective implementation of Pakistan’s Agriculture Innovation and Growth Plan, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

Sharif directed the authorities concerned to launch a nationwide awareness campaign for the “Zarkhez-e” agricultural loan programme to improve farmers’ access to easy credit lines.

He also called for transforming the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) into a world-class hub for agricultural research.

“Per-acre yield will increase through better seeds, modern agricultural technology, and the timely, proper supply of water and fertiliser,” Sharif said, stressing the need for value addition, improved warehousing, and modern storage systems for commodities.

During the briefing, officials informed the prime minister that the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) is currently producing multi-grain flour on a pilot basis, while an artificial intelligence-based mobile application is being developed to help farmers effectively manage pests and crop diseases.

The meeting was also told that the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited will provide dedicated funds to ease loan access for farmers.

Furthermore, the National Seed Policy and National Agriculture Biotechnology Policy have recently been approved, while consultations on a National Olive Value Chain Policy, a national wheat policy, and several livestock initiatives are underway.

The meeting was attended by key cabinet members, including Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior officials.