On the occasion of World Food Day, Pakistan joins the international community in reaffirming its commitment to collective efforts and meaningful cooperation to address the critical challenge of food security.
Food security at both the national and global levels faces numerous challenges, with natural and environmental pressures and increasingly unpredictable climate patterns among the foremost concerns. Innovation in agriculture and the ability to withstand and adapt to environmental and climate related challenges are essential to achieving sustainable development, prosperity and food security for generations to come.
This year, World Food Day is being observed under the theme, “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.” The theme highlights the vital role of innovation and modern technology in transforming the agricultural sector. Technology enabled food and agricultural systems are essential to meeting the nutritional needs of present and future generations. Challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, variations in soil fertility, rising production costs and disruptions in food supply chains can be addressed effectively through scientific research, innovation and the adoption of modern technologies.
The Government is firmly committed to modernising the agricultural and food sectors through the application of science and technology. By integrating scientific research, knowledge and technological advancements with the local knowledge and practical experience of our farmers, we can substantially increase agricultural productivity.
Agricultural development is fundamental to national food security, economic growth, rural employment and the development of the livestock sector. Our hardworking farmers, livestock breeders and all those engaged in agricultural production are indispensable to strengthening the national food system. Despite numerous challenges, our agricultural workforce continues to make a vital contribution to meeting the nation’s food requirements through its hard work, dedication and unwavering commitment.
The Federal Government has established the National Agricultural and Food Security Council (NAFSC) to advance agricultural development through coordinated, comprehensive and effective measures at the national level. In collaboration with provincial governments and relevant institutions, the Government is pursuing initiatives to promote research into improved seeds and production technologies, expand agricultural mechanisation, introduce digital systems, improve irrigation efficiency, enhance the economic and nutritional value of agricultural produce, and strengthen linkages between farmers and markets.
The Government is also according priority to easing the financial constraints faced by smallholder farmers and improving their access to affordable credit. To facilitate the provision of agricultural loans on accessible and preferential terms across the country, the Government has also engaged private banks in these efforts.
Food security entails not only an adequate supply of food but also its quality and nutritional value. Ensuring that every citizen has access to safe, nutritious and wholesome food remains a key priority of the Government.
The Government is also taking targeted measures to strengthen storage infrastructure in line with international standards and expand agricultural processing facilities to enhance the economic value, nutritional quality and utility of agricultural produce. These initiatives will help unlock the potential of Pakistan’s abundant agricultural resources, including crops, halal meat and fisheries, while facilitating access to international markets and boosting exports.
Self-sufficiency in agricultural production also helps conserve valuable national resources that would otherwise be spent on importing agricultural commodities. Proactive measures to prevent shortages in domestic agricultural production are infact the most prudent and efficient utilisation of national resources.
On this World Food Day, let us renew our commitment to working together to build a strong, inclusive and sustainable food system. I call upon provincial governments, farmers, researchers, agricultural experts, the private sector, development partners and civil society to play their constructive role in empowering our farmers and growers and ensuring food security for Pakistan.
