Ahmed Khan Malik

Growers and experts call for introduction of modern agriculture practices to enhance tomato production in Sindh. This southeastern province of Pakistan has huge potential for crop but is not delivering maximum returns to farmers, reports WealthPK.

Sindh's tomato sector, a vital component of Pakistan's agricultural landscape, faces significant challenges, hindering crop growth and productivity. To enhance the sector's efficiency and competitiveness, adopting modern agricultural practices is imperative, he said.

Tomato has the higher consumption rate in Sindh. It is also known as a luxury food, but farmers most of the time suffer from profit volatility and seasonal variations in productivity.

As far as the marketing channels are concerned, the farmers face many challenges during the production and transportation of crop. Small farmers, in particular, face a more challenging situation as they grow tomatoes with the hope of achieving higher profit margins.

Owing to low revenues, farmers have started protesting and demanding a fair market price of their produce. There is a need for research to find out the key reasons and factors causing tomato price instability, they said. In Sindh, three districts – Badin, Thatta and Sujawal – are known for better production of tomato. Although tomato is available throughout the year, its availability in Thatta, Sujawal and Badin peaks in January to March/April months. During these months, it sells at very cheap rates.

Talking to WealthPK, Rasool Bux Soomro, an agriculture expert, said the average yield per hectare in Sindh is approximately 5,084 kilograms, which is significantly below the national average of 10,752 kilograms per hectare. He also identified market volatility as another factor responsible for low returns to farmers, leading to financial instability. Besides, lack of proper storage and processing facilities results in substantial post-harvest losses, contributing to low productivity.

He said adopting the latest farming practices could enhance the soil health and increase yields. Developing and cultivating tomato varieties resistant to the local climatic conditions could reduce the crop failure rates, he added Irfan Sheikh, a Thatta-based grower, said implementing efficient irrigation methods could conserve water and optimize crop growth. Establishing modern storage and processing units could minimize losses and add value to the produce, he added.

He said the Sindh government has recognized the importance of modernizing agriculture, as the Sindh Agriculture Policy 2018–2030 aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve farmers' livelihoods. Irfan told WealthPK that various organizations are conducting training sessions to educate farmers in modern techniques and climate adaptation strategies.

He believed that modernizing Sindh's tomato sector is essential for enhancing productivity, ensuring food security, and boosting the economy. A collaborative effort involving farmers, government agencies, and private stakeholders is crucial to implementing these practices effectively, he added.

Credit: INP-WealthPk