Limited rural-urban linkage widens income gap

ISLAMABAD:

Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan held a consultative meeting with World Bank Country Director Najy Benhassine to discuss the ongoing projects and development priorities of the government over the coming years.

The minister highlighted that lack of economic opportunities and limited connectivity of rural areas with urban centres had increased the income gap between urban and rural residents. He emphasised that rural development was vital for sustainable socio-economic development and environmental viability of a country.

In order to improve the rural economy, it was discussed that agricultural productivity should be improved through the provision of better seeds and an efficient water management system. It was highlighted that cold storages were critical to bridging the short-term demand-supply gap and price stability.

Furthermore, farmer and non-farmer residents of rural areas can enhance their income through value addition to agricultural products.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 26^th, 2021.

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