Peshawar, In a decisive step toward boosting agricultural productivity and efficiency, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Agriculture Minister Muhammad Sajjad visited the Director General Agricultural Engineering’s office in Tarnab, Peshawar. His visit aimed to oversee and expedite the department’s ongoing development projects, focusing on advanced agricultural machinery and technologies to improve farm output and address food shortages.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, during his inspection, Minister Sajjad examined the department’s divisions and emphasized the crucial role of agricultural engineering in enhancing the sector’s productivity. He specifically called for the rapid deployment of farm machinery to the fields, enabling broader access for farmers and potentially boosting the region’s agricultural yield.
Director General of Agricultural Engineering, Naseem Javed, briefed the minister on various initiatives, including the introduction of solar pumping systems, tubewell establishment, and the distribution of modern agricultural equipment. These measures are part of a comprehensive strategy encompassing the Annual Development Program (ADP), Public Sector Development Program (PSDP), Accelerated Implementation Program (AIP), and various donor-funded projects aimed at converting barren lands into productive agricultural sites.
The visit facilitated a detailed exchange on improving mechanization in agriculture, with department heads like DG Agriculture Extension Jan Muhammad and DG Soil Conservation Muhammad Yasin Wazir contributing insights. Through these collaborative efforts, the department aims to advance mechanized agriculture, thereby enhancing food security and economic growth in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Islamabad, In a significant development for Pakistan’s economy, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a staff-level agreement following the completion of the second and final review under Pakistan’s current Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). This agreement, contingent upon the approval of the IMF’s Executive Board, will unlock further financial support for Pakistan, signaling confidence in the country’s economic reform measures.
According to International Monetary Fund, the IMF delegation, led by Nathan Porter, assessed Pakistan’s economic performance and reforms from March 14-19, 2024. The staff-level accord paves the way for the disbursement of an additional US$1.1 billion, integral to supporting Pakistan’s economic stabilization efforts initiated in January 2024.
The review acknowledged Pakistan’s economic improvement, recognizing sustained growth and enhanced confidence due to adept policy management and renewed support from international partners. Despite these positive developments, challenges such as modest growth projections, high inflation, and the need for continued policy rigor remain to mitigate pervasive economic vulnerabilities.
Pakistan’s government has reiterated its commitment to achieving fiscal targets and advancing structural reforms to bolster economic stability. Key measures include attaining the fiscal year’s primary balance goal, broadening the tax base, and ensuring energy sector reforms to prevent debt accumulation and promote cost recovery.
Furthermore, the Pakistani authorities have expressed interest in a subsequent medium-term program with the IMF to address enduring fiscal and external challenges, enhance economic recovery, and establish a foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth. Upcoming discussions will focus on fiscal consolidation, energy sector viability, inflation reduction, and fostering private sector-led growth through various reforms.
The IMF team commended the collaborative efforts of Pakistan’s government, private sector, and development partners, highlighting the productive dialogue and shared commitment to the country’s economic progress.