Balochistan’s Agriculture Sector Stagnant Despite Vast Potential, Says Governor

Jafar Khan Mandokhail emphasizes modern farming techniques, local seed production, and water conservation strategies for sustainable growth

QUETTA(ANN): Governor Balochistan, Jafar Khan Mandokhail, has expressed concerns over the stagnation of Balochistan’s agriculture sector despite its vast potential in agriculture and livestock. Speaking at a consultative session on agricultural trade in Quetta, he stressed the need for a comprehensive agricultural trade strategy to modernize farming and reduce dependency on imported seeds.

Governor Mandokhail highlighted that Pakistan is projected to become the third most populous country by 2050, necessitating strategic planning to ensure food security. He underscored the importance of adopting modern agricultural techniques and enhancing expert input to improve productivity.

The session, organized by Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water, and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), was attended by LUAWMS Vice-Chancellor Dr. Abdul Malik Tareen, BUITEMS Vice-Chancellor Dr. Khalid Hafeez, Loralai University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ehsan Kakar, Principal Secretary to the Governor Hashim Khan Ghilzai, and former Vice-Chancellor Dr. Dost Baloch, along with policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders.

Governor Mandokhail commended Lasbela University’s efforts in promoting agricultural trade and stressed the need for revolutionary steps to modernize agriculture and livestock. He pointed out that Balochistan has the potential to meet the country’s livestock demands, particularly in districts like Musa Khel and Zhob, where monsoon rains provide favorable conditions.

He emphasized utilizing modern science and technology to convert arid lands into cultivable fields, improving both yield and quality through expert guidance and bioengineering innovations. He also called for educating farmers on drip irrigation techniques to address water scarcity, advocating for low-water-consuming crops like olive trees from Zhob to Khuzdar.

Governor Mandokhail reiterated that with 44% of Pakistan’s land area, Balochistan could lead the country’s agricultural development. By enhancing agricultural research, Pakistan could not only achieve self-sufficiency in food production but also emerge as a key agricultural exporter in the region.

At the conclusion of the session, the governor distributed commemorative shields among the organizers and experts in recognition of their contributions.