Farmers in need of help

Letter October 26, 2024
Farmers in need of help

Farmers in Pakistan are facing tough challenges that need immediate attention. For many, generational debt is a constant burden. Families are trapped in cycles of borrowing from landlords or lenders just to afford seeds, fertilisers and basic farming supplies. This debt passes from one generation to the next, making it nearly impossible for them to break free.
On top of that, water shortages and poor irrigation systems make farming even harder. Farmers, especially those at the end of irrigation systems, often don’t get enough water for their crops. Add to these rising costs of seeds and fertilisers, and it’s no surprise that many farmers are struggling to survive.
Even when they do manage to grow crops, low market prices and a lack of access to proper markets keep farmers from earning fair profits. Many don’t own their land and work under unfair contracts with landlords, leaving them with little to no savings.
It’s time to take action. The government needs to step in with debt relief, fair market pricing and better access to resources like water and fertilisers. Without this support, the future of farming in Pakistan looks bleak.
Let’s stand with our farmers and give them the support they deserve.
Eiman Shaikh
Karachi