KARACHI:
Climate change has raised the risks of impending food shortages in Pakistan. Changes in weather patterns including extended periods of drought and heavy rainfall harm the agriculture cycle and produce. The burgeoning population has resulted in increased consumption of basic food items. However, the produce remains limited as the agriculture sector has stuck to outdated agricultural practices and methods.
The extensive use of artificial fertiliser is resulting in soil degradation making the soil less fertile for future farming. A lack of investment and research has impeded progress in modern farming practices and techniques. In addition, import bans and challenging economic circumstances have affected the prices of essential food items.
Policymakers need to take comprehensive measures to address this looming catastrophe. Farmers should be introduced to modern techniques and methods along with climate-resilient seeds. Public-private partnerships should be established to boost investments and research in the agriculture sector. In addition, there must be increased emphasis on population control to curtail the negative impact of a large population.
Zohaib Ahmed
Hub
Published in The Express Tribune, October 26th, 2023.
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