Every nation possesses distinct strengths and weaknesses, and typically, countries capitalize on their strengths to bolster their position in the globalized and capitalist world. However, Pakistan presents a unique case. The country fails to address both its weaknesses and its strengths, resulting in a weakened and vulnerable position in the international market. Agriculture, which has long been considered the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, is gradually losing its prominence. Instead of reinforcing this critical sector, the country is facing numerous challenges. Nevertheless, these issues can be mitigated through the implementation of strategic and well-considered measures.
Water scarcity is the primary and most significant factor contributing to the decline of Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Water is essential for agriculture, yet the country is experiencing a severe shortage. Pakistan heavily depends on the Indus River system, but it is rapidly depleting due to various factors, including climate change, an inefficient irrigation infrastructure, and geopolitical issues such as India’s control over shared water resources. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Pakistan ranks third globally among countries facing an acute water crisis. Similar assessments have also been reported by the World Bank, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Soil degradation is another critical factor contributing to the decline of Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Soil plays a fundamental role in the growth of crops, and when it becomes degraded or unstable, it negatively impacts crop development and overall production. This issue primarily arises from the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and the inadequate practice of crop rotation. A significant number of farmers in Pakistan are grappling with this challenge, as their agricultural lands are losing essential organic matter, which is crucial for maintaining soil fertility and supporting healthy crop yields.
The lack of modern technology is another fundamental factor contributing to the decline of Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Many farmers lack the education and resources to adopt contemporary farming practices, and the state has also fallen behind in supporting technological advancements in agriculture. As a result, farmers continue to rely on outdated, conventional methods that are increasingly obsolete in the global context. Reports indicate that Pakistan ranks eighth globally in terms of farm output; however, the absence of modern agricultural techniques is likely to lead to further deterioration of the sector.
Access to markets represents a significant challenge for Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Due to the factors mentioned above, farmers are often unable to produce surplus crops. Even when they do manage to
grow surplus yields, accessing markets becomes an even greater obstacle. This is primarily due to inadequate road infrastructure, insufficient transportation networks, and a lack of market knowledge. These barriers lead to crop wastage and significant losses for farmers. This not only negatively impacts farmers’ incomes but also threatens food security, ultimately causing substantial harm to the country’s economy.
Furthermore, the phenomenon of climate change plays a crucial role in the degradation of Pakistan’s agricultural sector. The impact of climate change is not only disrupting human livelihoods but also adversely affecting various environmental factors. Projections suggest that by 2050, the production of key crops such as wheat and rice could decline by up to 14.7% and 20%, respectively, in Pakistan. This is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention, as the challenges posed by climate change continue to undermine the country’s agricultural productivity and overall food security.
These are some of the significant factors contributing to the decline of Pakistan’s agricultural sector, which was once a key driver of the country’s economy. However, these critical challenges can be addressed through a range of strategic measures. One potential solution to mitigate water scarcity is the implementation of rainwater harvesting. By capturing and storing rainwater for use according to agricultural needs, this approach could provide a sustainable and efficient means of addressing water shortages. China serves as a prominent example, effectively utilizing rainwater harvesting systems to manage water resources and support agricultural production.
In addition, educating farmers about the benefits of organic farming would play a pivotal role in enhancing the agricultural sector. This approach would help prevent soil erosion and ensure the long-term sustainability of agricultural land. Scandinavian countries have successfully adopted such practices, allowing them to preserve their arable land for extended periods. Pakistan could similarly benefit from implementing these methods to protect its soil from degradation and ensure the continued productivity of its agricultural land over the long term.
To address the challenge of agricultural decline, it is essential for the state to prioritize the integration of modern technology and investment in research and development. The government must implement strategic measures to facilitate farmers’ access to advanced agricultural technologies. Neighboring India serves as a notable example, as it has made significant strides in enhancing its agricultural sector through the incorporation of technology. Pakistan should similarly adopt this approach, integrating modern technologies into its agricultural practices. Such a shift would not only mitigate the decline of the sector but also play a critical role in boosting the country’s agricultural exports.
Furthermore, improving transportation networks and establishing robust road infrastructure are crucial to ensuring that farmers have full access to markets. This can be achieved through strategic investments and the formulation of long-term policies focused on infrastructure development. Therefore, Pakistan must implement comprehensive, long-term policies in this area to overcome this challenge effectively.
Pakistan faces numerous challenges, with the decline of the agricultural sector being one of the most significant. Several factors contribute to the deterioration of this vital field. However, this is not an insurmountable issue. By implementing the aforementioned strategic measures, along with additional targeted actions, the country can effectively address this critical challenge. Successfully overcoming this obstacle would pave the way for Pakistan’s economic prosperity and long-term growth.
