اردو(Urdu) English(English) عربي(Arabic) پښتو(Pashto) سنڌي(Sindhi) বাংলা(Bengali) Türkçe(Turkish) Русский(Russian) हिन्दी(Hindi) 中国人(Chinese) Deutsch(German)
Saturday, December 7, 2024 07:57
India-USA Nexus and G20 Summit: India’s Bluff on Poverty and Humanity Palestine and Kashmir: Two Illegal Occupations, Two Epic Struggles Analytical Discourse of Iqbal’s Philosophy of Education The Contemporary Relevance of Allama Iqbal’s Educational Philosophy One Hundred Days of Special Investment Facilitation Council: Achievements, Challenges, and Future Prospects The Rise of Narendra Modi: From RSS Foot Soldier to India Question of Palestine Eternal Wisdom: Iqbal Building Futures: Empowering Pakistan's Youth for Tomorrow Tourism: An Essential Element for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth Connecting Youth to Global Opportunities Algorithms: The Silent Architects of Warfare Pakistani Youth: The Driving Force for National Progress Investing in Future Generations: Pakistan Army Lost Voices: The Systematic Marginalization of Indian Muslims Parallel Struggles: Examining the Palestinian and Kashmiri Quests for Self-determination Emergence of BJP as a Hindutva Force The Fourth Industrial Revolution: Transforming Pakistan Building Sustainable Cities: Urban Search and Rescue Preparedness Simulation Exercise In the Pursuit of Happiness: Understanding Hedonia, Eudemonia, and Naikan COAS’ U.S. Visit: Strengthening Ties and Fostering Collaboration A Biological Marvel of Human Heart Educational Empowerment: FC Balochistan (North) Initiates Literacy Program for Soldiers Digital Pakistan Journey: Pioneering Towards a Connected Future Driving Digital Transformation: Pakistan CJCSC Calls on His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussain During His Visit to Jordan COAS' Peshawar Visit Highlights Security, Socioeconomic Development and National Unity Unity in Diversity: COAS Joins Christmas Celebrations with Christian Community in Rawalpindi Chief of the Naval Staff Attends Indian Ocean Naval Symposium in Bangkok Strengthening Bonds and Elevating Collaboration: Combat Commander Turkish Air Force Calls on Chief of the Air Staff Closing Ceremony of Multinational Special Forces Exercise Fajar Al Sharq-V Strengthens Counterterrorism Collaboration Off the Beaten Track: Exploring Jiwani's Coastal Marvels and Heritage Special Investment Facilitation Council: A Game Changer for the Economy of Pakistan Rising Stars: Pakistan’s Youth Shines Bright in 2023 Indian Supreme Court’s Decision and the International Law Challenges to Justice: The Indian Supreme Court’s Fallacy in IIOJK Belt and Road Initiative: Strengthening Global Ties with Unhindered Trade and Connectivity The Media Matrix: Unraveling How Technology Shapes Our Perception Decoding Human Interaction: The Comprehensive Guide to Reading Body Language The Magic of Moscow On the Same Wavelength: Suno FM's Impact on Community Empowerment, Diversity, and Social Progress in Pakistan The Journey of SAIL: A Beacon of Hope for Autism in Gilgit-Baltistan Pakistan National Youth Convention 2024: COAS Stresses Youth's Vital Role, Urges Unity, and National Strength Vice Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China Calls on COAS COAS Attends Inauguration Ceremony of the Second Chapter of NASTP Silicon PAF's Induction and Operationalization Ceremony Showcases Technological Advancements and Operational Excellence COAS Witnesses Firing of Different Air Defense Weapon Systems During Exercise Al-Bayza-III, 2024 COAS Visits POF Wah, Highlights Importance of Indigenous Defense Industry Exercise Sea Guard-24: Strengthening Maritime Security Al-Noor Special Children School and College Celebrates International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023 in Multan Garrison Exercise BARRACUDA-XII: Strengthening Global Cooperation for Maritime Safety and Environmental Protection Pakistan-Qatar Joint Aerial Exercise "Zilzal-II" Held in Qatar March 23, 1940: Charting the Course for Pakistan's Future Peshawar’s Namak Mandi: A Gemstone Heaven Genocide in Palestine Rising Cities, Shrinking Spaces: Tackling Overpopulation and Urbanization in Pakistan Impact of Pakistan Resolution Day on National Identity Building Leaders: Jinnah and Iqbal's Timeless Wisdom for Today's Youth National Parks–Natural Assets India's New Playbook for Extraterritorial Assassination of Opponents The Legacy of Khan Brothers in Pakistan Armed Forces (Part II) Beyond the Battlefield: AIMH’s Quest for Military History Preservation The Siege of 634 A.D. (Part II) SIFC, From Vision to Reality (Part II) A New Dawn in Pakistan's Agriculture The Crowdsourcing Practices The Last Post: Eulogy of a Hero Securing Tomorrow’s Food: Sustainable Agriculture and Aquaculture in Pakistan The Saindak Copper-Gold Project: A Beacon of Pak-China Friendship and Prosperity Prime Minister of Pakistan, Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and COAS Visit Muzaffarabad CJCSC Calls on Minister of Defense, KSA 7th International PATS Exercise-2024 Held at NCTC, Pabbi CNS Visits Coastal Belt of Sindh and Coastal Areas of Balochistan to Oversee the Conduct of Exercise Seaspark-2024 Keel Laying Ceremony of the Second HANGOR Class Submarine Held at Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works Chinese Ambassador Calls on Chief of the Air Staff Pakistan Navy Demonstrates Combat Readiness with Live Missile Firing Exercise in the North Arabian Sea PAF's Jf-17 Thunder Block-III Fighter Jet Participates in World Defense Air Show-2024 A Day of Celebration and Global Solidarity: Pakistan Day Parade 2024 Gaza: A Tragedy Beyond Words Better Late than Never... Escalating Tensions: India's Violations of the Indus Waters Treaty Preserving Pakistan Pakistan Day Parade-2024: A Celebration of National Unity and Strength Demolition of Muslim Properties in India: A Weapon of Choice and State Policy Sustainable Energy Transition: Strategies for Pakistan’s Shift towards Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency The Impact of Climate Change on Global Health: Building Resilient Health Systems SIFC, From Vision to Reality (Part III) Emerging from the Depths: The Pakistan Army Dedicated to Promoting Tolerance and Diversity: Pakistan Army, in Collaboration with the University of Peshawar, Hosts a Successful Grand Peace Fair Pak-Saudi On Job Training 2024 CJCSC Addresses SCO Military Medical Seminar 2024 on Challenges in Military Medicines Loyalty, Honor, Duty: The Pivotal Role of Pakistan Armed Forces in Upholding Peace and Security From Darkness to Light–One Year On: Contemplating May 9, 2023 to May 9, 2024 Beyond the Smoke and Mirrors Global Perspectives on Content Regulation: Examining Network Enforcement Act and Disinformation Laws The Issue of Palestine: A Historical, Religious, and Humanitarian Perspective Modi’s Guarantee and Hindutva Incorporated Divide and Conquer: The Dangerous Surge of Anti-Muslim Rhetoric in Indian Politics India's Hybrid Warfare in Kashmir India: Where the Price of Protest is Death! Pakistani Peacekeepers and the International Peacekeeping Day Empowering Pakistan: Navigating the Path to Sustainable Energy Autarky Overpopulation: Navigating Challenges and Charting Solutions for Pakistan Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Friendship: Dawn of a New Era SIFC, From Vision to Reality (Part IV) A Tale of Two Sultans: Brigadier Sultan Ahmed, SJ & Bar (Part II) In the Footsteps of Valor: A Journey through Peshawar Garrison Pakistan Military Academy Passing Out Parade-2024 CGS Turkish Armed Forces Calls on COAS Green Pakistan Initiative Conference Highlights National Commitment to Agricultural Innovation and Economic Growth Commander Turkish Land Forces Calls on COAS Minister of Foreign Affairs, KSA, Calls on COAS Assistant Minister of Defense, KSA, Calls on COAS PAF Academy Asghar Khan Hosts Prestigious Graduation Ceremony for Aviation Cadets Faculty and Students from Muzaffargarh Government Post Graduate College Visit Multan Garrison SIFC's First Year: Transforming Pakistan's Investment Landscape SIFC’s First Birthday SIFC Building an Investor SIFC, From Vision to Reality (Part V) : Driving Growth in Industry, Tourism, and Privatization SIFC and Pakistan’s Economic Landscape: A Year in Review Chinas Transition from Industry 3.0 to 4.0 Social Media in Pakistan: Balancing Risks and Governance for National Security Indian Ambitious “Make in India” Approach for Defense Production: An Appraisal India s Bold Shift: Extraterritorial Killings and Regional Instability as the New Normal Charting a Path Towards Water Sustainability: Pakistan Comparative Analysis of IQ, EQ, SQ and AQ Harboring Opportunities: The Socioeconomic Benefits of Gwadar Port Development for Pakistan and the Region From Gridlock to Green Lanes: OLMRTS Drive Progress Evolution of Multan: A Journey Through the Past, Present, and Future Empowering Tomorrow Embracing Tradition: Welcoming the 17th Entry to Military College Sui Balochistan Champions of the Desert: Balochistan Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Girls Cadet College Turbat Hosts First Passing-out Parade Secretary General of Defense and National Armaments, Italy, Calls on CJCSC U.S. CENTCOM Commander Calls on COAS Chief of Defense Forces Australia Calls on COAS Turkish Foreign Minister Visits COAS COAS and CGS UK Army’s Address at 6th Pakistan-UK Regional Stabilization Conference GHQ Investiture Ceremony Held at General Headquarters COAS Extends Condolence to Iran Following Helicopter Crash That Claimed Top Officials CNS visits PLA (Navy) Headquarters China CNS Attends 19th Western Pacific Naval Symposium CNS Attends the Launching Ceremony of 1st HANGOR Class Submarine CAS Calls on General Secretary of MOD and Commander of Iraqi Air Force Commander Southern Command and 2 Corps Visits Khairpur Tamewali Pakistan-U.S. Navy Bilateral Exercise Inspired Union 2024 Pakistan Navy's Humanitarian Mission in Balochistan's Flood-ravaged Villages The Heat is On: How Pakistan is Battling the Dire Consequences of Climate Change Solid Waste Management in Pakistan: Promotion of Sustainable Circular Economy Revolutionizing Flood Risk Management in Pakistan: Harnessing the Power of River Indus Assumptions Vs. Realities: Demystifying Pakistan‘s Defense Budget Unresolved Turmoil, The Gaza Conflict and Israel‘s Strategic Quagmire Post Shangri-La Dialogue: Prospects for Regional Security and Stability Optimizing the Benefits of CPEC 2.0 Sagadat Nurmagambetov: An Example of Persistence, Courage, and Selfless Devotion to the Motherland From Digital Resistance to Pro-Palestinian Encampment SIFC: Catalyst for Foreign Investment Driving Pakistan‘s Economic Transformation Charting a Green Future: How SIFC is Leading Pakistan‘s Green Revolution Digital Terrorism: Implications for Pakistan‘s National Security and Policy Tich‘ Cowan – The Fighting Admiral Leepa Valley: Where Nature Meets Patriotism RUMANZA: Transforming Pakistan‘s Golfing Landscape with World-Class Excellence Inside Okara Garrison: Students Witness Pakistan Army‘s Training and Tradition Prime Minister Pays Tribute at Sepoy Haroon William‘s Funeral Service CJCSC Visits Turkiye Chief of Defense Forces Australia Calls on CJCSC COAS Visits the LOC in the Haji Pir Sector Chief of Royal Malaysian Navy Calls on CNS Royal Saudi Naval Forces Delegation Visits Pakistan CAS Visits Command and Staff College Quetta Commander Multan Corps Reviews Troops’ Watermanship Training in Okara Rescue at Sea: Pakistan Navy Saves 8 Iranian Fishermen Amid Vessel Fire Historical Foundations of Pakistan and the Requirements for Nation-Building Quaid, WWII, and the Pathway to Pakistan India and Israel: Similarities (Part I) Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir: Five Years Later Beyond the Headlines: How Kashmir‘s Status Change Alters the Conflict Food Insecurity: The Hidden Threat of Illicit Foot Trade Modi‘s Impact on the Soul of India The Role of Education in Overcoming Human Violence in Pakistan Rights as a Weapon of Leverage in the 5th Generation Warfare Vision for a Peaceful and Prosperous Pakistan: Conceptual Aspects of the Fast-Paced Socioeconomic Development Program Navigating the Meritocracy Maze: Challenges, Strategies, and Pathways to Progress in Pakistan Bakhtawar Shah: A Legendary Character of Gilgit-Baltistan The Importance of Civic Awareness in Pakistan From Multan to the Global Stage: How Pakistan is Reclaiming Freelancing Success The Revival of a Cherished Tradition: Burn Hall College Hosts Inaugural Tent Pegging Competition CJCSC and Russian Officials Commit to Enhanced Bilateral Collaboration Chief of Staff of the Brazilian Navy Calls on CJCSC 97th Anniversary of PLA Commemorated at GHQ 121st Midshipmen and 29th Short Service Commissioning Parade Held at Pakistan Naval Academy Pre-Induction Training of 23 Cavalry Regiment Demonstrated at Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges Pakistan-United States Infantry Rifle Company Exchange Exercise-2024 Held at NCTC, Pabbi PNS Babur's Historic Voyage: Strengthening Pakistan-Türkiye Naval Ties Certificate Award Ceremony of the First RSNF ASW Training Course Held at PNS Mehran Bridging Dreams and Reality—A Path to Pakistan‘s Prosperity Remembering the Spirit of September 6, 1965 The Spirit of Indo-Pakistan War 1965 The Hour of Glory: The Battle of Jassoran 1965 105 MM Pack Howitzer: The Infantryman’s Friend Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed: The Unyielding Defender of Pakistan Battle of Burki 1965: The Pivotal Clash at Lahore‘s Gates Commemorating Courage: 1965 War Monuments of Manawan and Batapur Israel and India: Similarities (Part-II) The Rising Demon of Islamophobia Israel’s Relentless Violence CPEC and Beyond: The Strategic Depth of China-Pakistan Ties NATO‘s Eastward Expansion and Security Dilemma The Growth Trap: Population Boom vs. Resource Strain Climate Change and National Security: The Emerging Risks for Pakistan Integrating Climate Change Mitigation with Eco-Agro-Tourism for Local Economic Development in Northern Pakistan SIFC: A Guarantor of Strong and Secure Pakistan Plant 4 Pakistan: Green Revolution for a Sustainable Future Civic Awareness and National Security Harvard Business School Delegation Meets with COAS COAS Hosts Ceremony at GHQ to Honor Olympian Arshad Nadeem’s Historic Achievement in Paris Olympics 2024 Pakistan and Romania Pledge Enhanced Naval Cooperation During CNS’ Official Visit Pakistan Navy Commissions PNS HUNAIN in Romania British High Commissioner to Pakistan Calls on CAS General Secretary of the Ministry of Defense of Iraq Calls on CAS Strengthening Ties at Sea: RSNF Cadets Complete Advanced Training with Pakistan Navy Visit of Students and Faculty of Different Educational Institutions of Khanewal District to Okara Garrison Selective Justice: The Implications of Hinduization on Kashmir's Future Global Advocacy for the Freedom Movement in Kashmir Hinduization of Law Kashmir in Focus: The Abrogation of Article 370 and Its Implications under International Law Taliban Rule and Regional Stability India and Israel: Similarities (Part III) The Indian Nuclear Black Market: Perilous for South Asia International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction A Regional Approach to Tackling Terrorism Digital Frontlines: How Pakistan Can Navigate the Challenges of Fifth-Generation Warfare Unlocking Strategic Investments: How Pakistan’s SIFC Can Bridge Gaps in Foreign Direct Investments, Climate Action, and Economic Growth Safe and Strong Pakistan: The Role of SIFC in Overcoming Pakistan‘s Policy Implementation Challenges From the Heart of Tirah: A Soldier‘s Reflection on Sacrifice and Duty Emerging Talent: Ozair Bin Abbas Shines in Pakistani Golf Inspiring Hope through Sports: Pakistan Army‘s Commitment to Kashmiri Youth Gilgit-Baltistan Liberation War 1947-48: The Untold Story of Courage, Sacrifice, and the Quest for Freedom Henry Charles ‘Hal’ Bevan Petman (1894-1980) Advancing Cardiac Care: Why AFIC/NIHD is the Go-To Destination for Cutting-Edge Cardiac Care in Pakistan Guardians of Peace: Pakistan‘s Extensive Contributions to UN Peacekeeping A New Era in Naval Defense: Historic Induction of PNS HUNAIN and BABUR Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Reviews Army War Game Outcomes and Operational Readiness CJCSC Visits People‘s Republic of China COAS Inaugurates Innovista Indus IT Park, Emphasizes Tech-Driven Economic Growth COAS Visits Orakzai District, Encouraging Brave Soldiers in their Commitment to Peace CAS Calls on Turkish President and Military Leadership During His Visit to Türkiye Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran Calls on CAS Pakistan-Indonesia Joint Exercise Elang Strike-II Held at NCTC, Pabbi Government College Sahiwal Students and Faculty Visit Sahiwal Garrison Before All is Lost: A Call for Justice for Palestine From the Rubble: The Struggle for Palestinian Survival Amidst Bombardment of Gaza and Lebanon Israel’s Strategy of Statehood and Identity Erasure Netanyahu’s Game Israel’s Iron Dome: Defense or Oppression Pakistan and the SCO Toward a Collaborative Future: Pakistan Turning the Tide: Innovative Solutions for Water Conservation in Pakistan Military Use of Artificial Intelligence by India Healing Heroes: Inside Pakistan’s Leading Rehabilitation Center Iqbal’s Vision for a Unified Muslim World Amidst Modern Challenges Iqbal’s Ode to Humanity: Reflections on Prophets, Poets, and Philosophers Chameleons of War,How Military Uniforms Evolved to Meet Combat Demands In Memory of Major Wasif Hussain Shah Shaheed (SBt): The Braveheart of Datta Khel Merging Visions: The Shared Path of Economic Advancement for China and Pakistan Pakistan Military Academy Passing Out Parade-2024 CJCSC Attends SVI’s Islamabad Non-Proliferation Conference 2024 COAS Witnesses the Ongoing Multinational Exercise Indus Shield-2024 Minister of Investment, KSA, H. E. Khalid Bin Abdulaziz Al Falih Calls on COAS Malaysian Prime Minister Calls on COAS Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus, Calls on COAS Azerbaijan 7th Meet of Pakistan-KSA Bilateral Defense Industrial Forum Held at Riyadh, KSA Pakistan Army Aviation Showcases Aerial Field Fire Training at Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges Al-Barq Hockey Championship Finale 2024: Redefining the Sporting Moments at Okara Garrison Pakistan Army Team Triumphs at Cambrian Patrol 2024, Secures Gold Medal on 65th Anniversary of International Exercise Students and Faculty of Government College Chowk Azam Visits Multan Garrison
Advertisements

Hilal English

Charting a Path Towards Water Sustainability: Pakistan

June 2024

Encouraging industries to adopt water-efficient practices and enforcing regulations to prevent water source pollution are crucial steps. By taking proactive measures and fostering a culture of responsible water usage across all sectors, Pakistan can secure a sustainable future for generations to come.



Several countries worldwide have successfully implemented remarkable water conservation initiatives, overcoming the challenges of water scarcity and inefficiency. While Pakistan boasts its achievements on a smaller scale, a comprehensive shift in mindset is necessary to maximize water utilization. Consequently, the successful execution of water conservation hinges on inter-departmental collaboration and the clear assignment of responsibilities to enhance water productivity and efficiency.
Water conservation encompasses all measures, policies, and endeavors aimed at responsibly overseeing the natural reservoir of freshwater, safeguarding the hydrosphere, and fulfilling both present and future human needs. It involves the efficient utilization of water to minimize unnecessary consumption. According to Fresh Water Watch, water conservation is important because fresh, clean water is not only a limited resource but also a costly one.1 Factors such as population dynamics, household dimensions, growth rates, and economic prosperity collectively influence the extent of water utilization.
Water conservation needs to be intrinsic to all planning, development, and management of water resources. Pakistan Vision (2025) sets out a vision for the country to have adequate water available through conservation, development, and good governance. The National Water Conservation Strategy 2023-27 emphasizes water management through conservation and provides guidelines for effective planning to manage existing water resources.2 The strategy has four main dimensions, focusing on three major sectors, i.e., agriculture, domestic, and industrial sector. It aims to strike a balance between supply and demand in a cost-efficient manner.
Source: Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR)
The Role of Agriculture in Water Conservation
Water conservation in agriculture has become increasingly crucial for environmental health and agricultural sustainability. Farmers can optimize water usage, boost crop yields, and foster agricultural sustainability by embracing methods like drip irrigation, water capture and storage, crop rotation, conservation tillage, and organic farming.3 Farmers can attain increased yields through these techniques while reducing water usage, fertilizers, and energy. 


Water conservation encompasses all measures, policies, and endeavors aimed at responsibly overseeing the natural reservoir of freshwater, safeguarding the hydrosphere, and fulfilling both present and future human needs.


Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Recognizing the importance of water conservation in agriculture is imperative to ensure a sustainable future. Following are the most beneficial methods of water conservation in agriculture:
▪Drip irrigation enables accurate and targeted distribution of resources, minimizing wastage and optimizing the effectiveness of water and nutrient utilization in agriculture. 
▪Water harvesting and reuse systems are designed to collect and store runoff and stormwater for later use. This contributes to sustainable water management by utilizing stored water, decreasing reliance on freshwater resources, and promoting water conservation. 
▪Irrigation system managers rely on irrigation schedules to ascertain the suitable frequency and duration of watering. Water management considers the irrigation method alongside factors such as the quantity, timing, and frequency of water application.
▪Drought-resistant crops can reduce the risk of crop failure during water scarcity. By cultivating crops adapted to the local climate and requiring less water, farmers can optimize water use, mitigate risks associated with drought, and promote long-term sustainability in agriculture.
▪Dry farming is a technique of crop production that does not rely on irrigation during dry seasons but instead utilizes moisture stored in the soil from the previous rainy season. It maximizes the soil's natural moisture and adapts crop management practices to suit the local climate, with the aim of achieving sustainable crop production with minimal water use.
▪Rotational grazing entails systematically moving livestock across fields to stimulate pasture regeneration. Effective grazing management practices bolster the fields' capacity to absorb water and reduce runoff, fostering the development of more drought-resistant pastures. This method yields water-saving advantages by elevating soil organic content and enhancing fodder distribution, thereby augmenting water retention in the soil.
▪The combined use of compost and mulch conserves water by enriching the soil with organic matter and nutrients through compost incorporation before planting and applying mulch after establishment, which helps conserve moisture by reducing evaporation, suppressing weed growth, and moderating soil temperature.


The National Water Conservation Strategy 2023-27 emphasizes water management through conservation and provides guidelines for effective planning to manage existing water resources.


▪Conservation tillage is a collection of agriculture methodologies that creates a protective layer on the soil surface, retaining moisture and preventing erosion. This, in turn, benefits regions with limited water availability or frequent drought conditions.
▪Cover crops conserve water by shielding bare soil from erosion, water loss, and compaction through the provision of a protective layer. This mitigates the impact of wind and water erosion, competes with weeds for water and nutrients, potentially reduces the necessity for herbicides and other chemical inputs, and ultimately enhances water preservation and soil health as a form of carbon farming practice planted between primary crop cycles.


The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is advancing Pakistan's agricultural sector towards modernization through the Green Pakistan Initiative (GPI). Precision agriculture methods are being implemented to enhance crop yields by leveraging advanced technology, minimizing labor requirements, and optimizing fertilizer and irrigation practices. 


Agriculture is very important to Pakistan's economy and people. It is the largest sector, employing over 42 percent of the workforce and contributing around 24 percent to the country's gross domestic product (GDP).4 The sector provides food for the population and raw materials for industries such as textiles. Provincial agriculture and irrigation departments and provincial water commissions are the major regulatory bodies for water conservation in agriculture.


By cultivating crops adapted to the local climate and requiring less water, farmers can optimize water use, mitigate risks associated with drought, and promote long-term sustainability in agriculture.


 

Source: Ministry of Water Resources (MoWR)


SIFC: Revitalizing Pakistan's Agriculture Sector on Modern Lines
Pakistan’s agriculture sector faces numerous challenges, including water scarcity, outdated farming techniques, lack of modern technology and machinery, and dependence on erratic weather patterns. However, with the government's recent initiatives to modernize the sector, there is an optimistic outlook for the future of agriculture in Pakistan. The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is advancing Pakistan's agricultural sector towards modernization through the Green Pakistan Initiative (GPI). Precision agriculture methods are being implemented to enhance crop yields by leveraging advanced technology, minimizing labor requirements, and optimizing fertilizer and irrigation practices. The overarching goal of the GPI is to address malnutrition, decrease reliance on food imports, and bolster export capabilities.5
The GPI aims to reclaim unused government land, particularly in the Cholistan region, to boost agricultural productivity through private sector and domestic and foreign investor involvement. With approximately 24 million acres of cultivated land and 91 million acres of vacant land in Pakistan, the GPI seeks to utilize these resources to enhance agricultural output. Progress has been notable in South Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh, with provincial governments actively supporting the initiative. By integrating modern agricultural technology and sustainable farming practices, the GPI aims to create a framework for increased productivity and job creation while promoting large-scale corporate farming in alignment with global standards. 
Pakistan aims to attract investments ranging from USD 30-50 billion within the next 4 to 5 years to revolutionize its agricultural sector as part of a strategic initiative aimed at economic transformation. The government is committed to harnessing the agriculture sector's complete potential through the SIFC, established last year, to incentivize foreign investments and drive the country's economic advancement. The SIFC has approved 28 projects valued at billions of dollars, targeting potential investment from Gulf countries. These projects span crucial sectors such as agriculture, livestock, mining, minerals, Information Technology (IT), and energy.6 The government's initiatives to improve irrigation systems, promote modern farming techniques, and provide farmers with access to credit are expected to boost the agriculture sector's growth.
Pakistan's agriculture sector demonstrates resilience and adaptability amidst challenges, poised for sustainable growth and increased economic contribution with continued government support and modernization investments. Pakistan Business Forum suggested a potential USD 3 billion contribution to the national economy by the sector in 2023-24, with expectations of achieving 3.5 percent growth, notably through increased production of major crops like cotton and rice. According to the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, positive momentum in livestock and the production of cotton, rice, and minor crops further augments growth prospects, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach from the new government to fully unlock the sector's potential.
According to the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) president, the government has introduced the Agriculture Development Authority Act to facilitate corporate farming. According to the president, the act has been welcomed by business leaders. Through corporate farming, Pakistan can potentially cultivate around 22 million acres.7 Strategically expanding the cultivated area through corporate farming holds the potential to significantly boost oilseed production in Pakistan, thereby saving a substantial amount of foreign exchange. 
While corporate farming offers advantages, establishing agro-industries in Pakistan via Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) holds even greater promise. Recent media reports underscore the growing significance of the agriculture sector as a prime target for FDI8, with continued opportunities for investment, particularly in corporate farming, highlighting its viability as an investment avenue. The planning ministry has further emphasized the promotion of technology to reduce post-harvest losses, value addition for grain, fruits, and vegetables, productivity enhancement of major crops, engagement of women and young people in agripreneurship and agribusiness, and promotion and support of agricultural research.
Pakistan is an agricultural economy but faces mounting water scarcity and inefficient usage challenges. Hence, prioritizing water conservation has become imperative. Implementing comprehensive strategies is essential to address this pressing issue, which includes raising public awareness about the importance of water conservation through educational campaigns and community engagement. Moreover, investing in modern irrigation technologies, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems, can significantly reduce water wastage in agriculture. 
Farmers should continuously monitor weather forecasts, soil moisture levels, and plant conditions to tailor their irrigation schedules, mitigating risks of under and overwatering. This proactive strategy facilitates optimal water utilization, ensuring crops receive precise amounts at appropriate times for maximal growth while mitigating water wastage and potential adverse effects on plant health and yield.
Encouraging industries to adopt water-efficient practices and enforcing regulations to prevent water source pollution are crucial steps. Moreover, promoting sustainable urban planning and infrastructure development, such as constructing water-efficient buildings and establishing green spaces, can further contribute to water conservation efforts. By taking proactive measures and fostering a culture of responsible water usage across all sectors, Pakistan can secure a sustainable water future for generations to come.


The writer is an Islamabad-based policy researcher, with an MPhil in Peace and Conflict Studies from National Defence University. Currently, she is a Research Associate at the Institute of Social and Policy Sciences (I-SAPS). Her work focuses on ethnocentrism, religion-based violence, Education and Governance.
E-mail: [email protected]


1   “What is Water Conservation?”, Constellation, retrieved on May 8, 2024, https://www.constellation.com/energy-101/water-conservation-tips0.html#:~:text=Water%20conservation%20is%20the%20practice,well%20as%20a%20costly%20one. 
2   National Water Conservation Strategy for Pakistan (2023-27), Ministry of Water Resources, February 2023, https://pcrwr.gov.pk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/National-Water-Conservation-Strategy-for-Pakistan-2023-27.pdf 
3  “10 Agricultural techniques for water conservation”, DGB Group, April 19, 2023, https://www.green.earth/blog/10-agricultural-techniques-for-water-conservation#:~:text=By%20adopting%20techniques%20such%20as,long%2Dterm%20sustainability%20in%20agriculture. 
4   “What is The Importance of Agriculture in Pakistan?”, Faisal Zari Service, published on February 15, 2023, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-importance-agriculture-pakistan-faisal-zari-service#:~:text=Agriculture%20is%20very%20important%20to,for%20industries%2C%20such%20as%20textiles.
5   “SIFC taking steps to develop Pakistan's agriculture sector on modern lines”, Radio Pakistan, March 24, 2024, https://www.radio.gov.pk/24-03-2024/sifc-taking-steps-to-develop-pakistans-agriculture-sector-on-modern-lines 
6   “Green Pakistan”, Khaleej Times, published on March 35, 2024, https://www.sifc.gov.pk/news/149 
7  Jawaid Bokhari, “Agriculture: Impetus for corporate farming”, Dawn, Published on January 29, 2024, https://www.dawn.com/news/1809409#:~:text=To%20facilitate%20corporate%20farming%2C%20the,under%20cultivation%20through%20corporate%20farming. 
8   Khalid Saeed Wattoo and Waqar Ahmad, “Using SIFC to develop agriculture sector”, Published on October 2, 2023, https://www.dawn.com/news/1778889