LAHORE
SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, former President Iftikhar Ali Malik emphasized on Sunday that Pakistan’s future is intrinsically tied to adoption of modern technologies in agricultural sector for attaining sustainable economic growth and development.
In a statement here on Sunday he urged the government to prioritize this vital sector to ensure sustainable economic growth and long-term prosperity.
He highlighted that agriculture remains the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and food security.
However, he noted that the sector has not yet reached its full potential due to a lack of modernization, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient investment.
He stressed the need to implement policies that promote technological advancements in agriculture, adoption of modern farming techniques, improved irrigation systems, and access to high-quality seeds and fertilizers.
He also called for increased financial support for farmers, particularly smallholders, to help them overcome challenges like rising input costs and climate change impacts.
He further advocated for better market access and value addition to agricultural products to boost exports and generate higher revenues.
Iftikhar Ali Malik underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in transforming the agricultural sector.
He suggested that collaboration between the private sector, and international organizations could drive innovation, enhance productivity.
He also emphasized the role of education and training in equipping farmers with the skills needed to adapt to changing agricultural practices.
He reiterated that prioritizing agriculture is not just an economic imperative but also a social necessity, as it directly impacts the livelihoods of millions of Pakistanis. By investing in this sector, Pakistan can achieve food security, reduce poverty, and pave the way for sustainable development,he concluded.
