PM Shehbaz Consults Agricultural Stakeholders Ahead of Federal Budget, Calls for Accelerated Reforms.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday (June 9) met a high-level delegation representing farmers’ organizations, dairy and livestock sectors, value-added industries, seed companies, and national and multinational agricultural institutions to discuss budgetary priorities and reforms for the agriculture sector ahead of the Federal Budget 2026-27.
During the meeting, participants appreciated the Prime Minister’s leadership and efforts to promote peace amid the prevailing regional situation. They also welcomed the recently introduced Seed Policy and agricultural reforms, describing them as a potential game changer for Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
Addressing the delegation, the Prime Minister said the agriculture sector possesses tremendous potential to bring about transformative change in Pakistan’s economy and play a pivotal role in its revival. He highlighted the government’s efforts to modernize agricultural research and stated that the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) is being upgraded with the cooperation of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences to accelerate innovation and research.
To ensure sustainable growth and effectively implement the agricultural reform agenda, Prime Minister Shehbaz directed the formation of a committee comprising experts and stakeholders from across the country. He emphasized the need for stronger coordination between the federal and provincial governments and called for greater harmonization of agricultural policies and regulations.
The Prime Minister also instructed relevant authorities to focus on increasing per-acre crop yields, promoting climate-resilient hybrid seeds, advancing horticulture, expanding agricultural mechanization, and enhancing value addition in agricultural products.
Calling for special attention to cotton cultivation, he directed provinces, particularly Balochistan, to submit comprehensive plans aimed at increasing cotton production. He further ordered the immediate notification of the reconstituted Cotton Board.
The Prime Minister welcomed proposals presented by participants for the promotion of the dairy and livestock sectors, reiterating the government’s commitment to maintaining consultations and cooperation with all stakeholders to achieve long-term agricultural growth, food security, and economic resilience.
During a briefing, the delegation was informed about various government initiatives to support agriculture and improve farmers’ welfare. Officials stated that under the Zarakhaizi Scheme, small farmers are being provided easy-term bank loans of up to Rs1 million. Farmers are also benefiting from the State Bank of Pakistan’s risk coverage and crop loss insurance schemes.
The meeting was further informed that draft versions of the National Animal Health Act and the National Breeding Policy have been prepared to strengthen the dairy and livestock sectors.
Members of the delegation shared their concerns regarding challenges faced by the agriculture sector and offered recommendations for their resolution. They praised the government’s initiatives for agricultural development and expressed confidence in its economic and development policies.