Agriculture forms the backbone of our economy, sustaining livelihoods and ensuring food security for millions. However, to fortify this crucial sector, robust research and innovation are imperative.
Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Chairman of the Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC), in an interview the other day highlighted a significant stride in this direction. He said the PARC has approved ten high-yielding pulse varieties this year, aimed at enhancing the country’s pulse production. Pulse crops indeed play a pivotal role in global food security. Pakistan currently requires 1.56 million tons of pulses annually to meet domestic demand. Despite our agrarian roots, the country has faced a burgeoning reliance on pulse imports. In the fiscal year 2023 alone, imports surged to a record 1.344 million tonnes valued at $946 million, surpassing previous highs. This underscores the urgency to augment local production to reduce dependence on costly imports. The recent approval of high-yielding pulse varieties signals a promising shift towards bolstering domestic production. We need to increase production levels where we can meet not only local demand but also hold potential for export markets. However, achieving sustainable agricultural growth demands concerted efforts. Research institutes must intensify their endeavours to develop climate-resilient and high-yielding seed varieties, not only for pulses but also for major crops like cotton. The government, at both federal and provincial levels, must extend unwavering support to these institutions. Adequate funding, infrastructure and policy frameworks are essential to nurture a thriving research ecosystem capable of addressing contemporary agricultural challenges.
