Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, chaired a high-level meeting on cooperative farming and marketing, attended by Rana Iftikhar Muhammad, President, Chamber of Agriculture Punjab, along with other stakeholders.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized that cooperative farming is the backbone of sustainable agriculture in Pakistan. He noted that small and medium farmers, who constitute the majority of cultivators, face serious challenges in accessing modern technology, affordable inputs, and profitable markets. Cooperative farming, he said, provides a collective solution to these issues.
“Cooperative farming ensures that every farmer, regardless of land size, has access to advanced machinery, climate-smart techniques, interest-free agri-finance, and direct market linkages. This model reduces production costs, eliminates middlemen, and guarantees farmers a fair share of profit,” stated Rana Tanveer Hussain.
The Minister highlighted that cooperative farming will not only uplift the rural economy but also play a vital role in achieving national food security. He pointed out that with improved yields through intercropping and value addition, Pakistan can substantially cut down its reliance on imported wheat, pulses, and edible oil, thereby saving valuable foreign exchange.
Rana Tanveer Hussain appreciated the role of Rana Iftikhar Muhammad, President Chamber of Agriculture Punjab, in promoting the cooperative farming model and assured that the government will extend full cooperation for its implementation.
He further remarked that the government is committed to supporting farmers by facilitating modern storage facilities, processing units, and export-oriented packaging centers under the cooperative model.
“This is not merely an agricultural plan,” the Minister said, “it is a social and economic revolution that will empower farmers and secure Pakistan’s future.”
Reaffirming the government’s resolve, Rana Tanveer Hussain said the Ministry will ensure technical guidance and financial assistance through innovative mechanisms to make the cooperative model a success story across the country.
“The cooperative model has the potential to transform Pakistan’s agriculture into a competitive, resilient, and prosperous sector. Our goal is clear: save the farmer, secure Pakistan,” concluded Rana Tanveer Hussain.
