Agriculture in crisis

Pakistan's agricultural sector is facing a crisis as progressive farmers raise alarms over declining crop yields. Climate change, outdated seed varieties, viral attacks, water shortages and ineffective pesticides have all contributed to falling productivity. However, the most troubling factor is the increasing disinterest on the part of the growers, driven by shrinking profit margins and unchecked market exploitation. Despite the presence of approximately 680 pesticide companies in the country - half of which import massive quantities worth around $360 million annually - their products have failed to protect standing crops from pests and diseases. Farmers report that instead of safeguarding yields, the excessive use of substandard pesticides has aggravated the problem, raising questions about regulatory oversight. Given this situation, it is imperative to impose a ban on the registration of new pesticide companies until stringent quality control measures are enforced. Additionally, an independent regulatory body must be tasked with monitoring the efficacy of pesticides available in the market, ensuring that only high-quality, tested products reach farmers. Without such oversight, pesticide companies will continue to exploit growers while failing to safeguard crops against insects, diseases and viruses. Pakistan's major crops —wheat, sugarcane, cotton and rice - as well as fruits and vegetables, require better protection through research and development of modern seed varieties. The government must invest in scientific advancements to develop resilient, high-yield crops that can withstand environmental stressors. Without such interventions, reliance on outdated seed strains will continue to drag productivity down. Additionally, action must be taken against the various mafias operating in local markets that exploit growers through fraudulent seed sales. Farmers must be provided access to genuine, high-quality agricultural inputs and financial support to offset losses. Unless authorities step in to regulate the agricultural supply chain and ensure better returns for growers, food security and will remain in jeopardy.

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