Arooj Zulfiqar

In a bid to enhance food security in Pakistan, there’s a need to empower small-scale farmers and women in agriculture. This approach will not only ensure sustainable agricultural practices but also contribute significantly to economic stability and rural development, said Dr Haroon Sarwar Awan, economic consultant at the Ministry of National Food Security and Research.Talking to WealthPK, he said,“Small farmers make a substantial portion of Pakistan's agriculture, yet they often face challenges such as limited access to resources, financial constraints, and inadequate technological support. Similarly, women, who play a crucial role in agricultural activities, encounter barriers in 

accessing land rights, credit facilities, and training opportunities.”

“Given these challenges, efforts are needed to improve small farmers' access to high-quality seeds, fertilizers, modern farming equipment, subsidies and partnerships with private enterprises, and establish agricultural extension services for technical guidance,” said Awan. “Access to credit is vital for small farmers to invest in their farms and adopt modern agricultural practices. Microfinance institutions and agricultural banks’ support is necessary to provide tailored financial products and services to small farmers, including loans for inputs, equipment purchases, and seasonal expenses. “Additionally, training and capacity-building programs should be conducted to equip small farmers and women with the necessary skills and knowledge in areas such as crop management, pest control, water conservation, and post-harvest handling.

These programs often leverage digital technologies and mobile platforms for widespread dissemination of information,” he added. Talking to WealthPK, Senior Scientific Officer (SSO) at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) M. Hanif said, “Women play a vital role in the agriculture sector and possess valuable knowledge and skills that are critical for agricultural productivity and food security. “Agriculture is a fundamental aspect of a country's economy, and its success largely depends on the contribution of its people, including women. Agriculture accounts for 22.9% of Pakistan’s GDP and 83 million people are engaged in this sector out of which 40 million are women.

Women make up 51 percent of the country’s population and play their part in various fields of agriculture,” he said. Empowering women in agriculture involves addressing gender disparities in land ownership, access to credit, and participation in decision-making processes, he said. It is necessary to conduct specialized programs which provide training in entrepreneurship, financial management, and leadership skills to enhance women's role and contribution to agricultural development. Experts believe that by empowering small farmers and women, Pakistan can achieve significant strides in enhancing food security, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. These efforts not only benefit the rural communities but also contribute to the overall economic growth and resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change and market volatility.

Credit: INP-WealthPk