Pakistan approves National Agriculture Research Center reforms

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved reforms for the National Agriculture Research Center aimed at ensuring the provision of certified and high-quality seeds to farmers. During a review meeting regarding agricultural sector reforms, the Prime Minister emphasized that supporting farmers to increase yield per acre is a top government priority.

Key initiatives discussed include the Agriculture Innovation and Growth Plan 2024-2026, which focuses on providing financial facilities, agricultural machinery, crop insurance, and electronic warehouse receipt financing. The government also plans to modernize the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council to meet international standards and is working on an AI-based app for pest and plant identification.

Additionally, efforts are underway to develop organic production pilot areas in Balochistan for crops such as cotton and dates. This includes establishing a national organic policy, group certification, and digital traceability systems to enhance export potential and farmer income.