Crop production lowest in the region

Agriculturalist blames lack of research and government support.

LAHORE: Despite being home to some of the best natural resources and favourable weather conditions, Pakistan’s agricultural production is almost 40 per cent less than neighbouring countries, says Kisan Board Pakistan Central Vice President Ahmad Khan.

Speaking to newly-elected office-bearers of the Agriculture Journalists Association here on Tuesday, Khan pointed out that in all major crops Pakistan’s production was the lowest in the region, which was mainly due to lack of research and government indifference.

Giving comparisons, he said that in sugarcane, through research and good farming practices, regional countries achieved production of 1,200 to 1,500 maunds (37 kg) per acre while Pakistan harvested 500 to 600 maunds.

Similarly, the region is producing 50-60 maunds of wheat per acre compared to yields of 27-30 maunds in Pakistan. However, Khan said, some big farmers had reached higher levels, indicating the country has a similar potential.

Elaborating, he said a small number of big and influential farmers had knowledge and access to modern research. However, about 86 per cent farmers, having 12.5 acres or less land, have no access to research and modern technology.

Stressing the need for new research in all areas, he said the country needed high-yielding, weather and pest-resistant seed varieties that could produce crops with less water.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 1^st, 2012.