Barren reforms

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's assertion that agriculture and livestock are crucial for Pakistan's economic revival is accurate, given the sector's substantial contribution to GDP and employment. However, the gap between this ambition and policy execution remains significant.

Decades of neglect, inconsistent policies, and institutional decay have plagued the agricultural sector. While governments have recognized its importance, budgetary allocations, research, and market reforms have not kept pace. This has led to Pakistan importing billions of dollars in food and raw materials while its food exports decline, draining precious foreign exchange.

Sharif's emphasis on technology, AI, and value addition is commendable. Yet, technology alone cannot overcome fundamental policy failures. Farmers require more than just AI; they need affordable fertilizers, stable energy costs, better water management, and remunerative prices. Without these, increased production and investment are unlikely.

Agriculture offers a rare opportunity for inclusive growth, but it demands concrete reforms. This includes bolstering research, developing vaccines, improving traceability, correcting market distortions, expanding rural credit, and investing in climate resilience. Without these actual reforms, the prime minister's declarations will remain mere aspirations.