Islamabad, 15 Oct 2023: Dr. Arif Alvi, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, underscored the significance of water conservation in the context of food security in his message ahead of World Food Day on 16th October 2023. Highlighting the year’s theme by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) – “Water is life, Water is Food: Leave no one behind” – Dr. Alvi detailed the challenges posed by diminishing water availability, especially in developing countries like Pakistan, and emphasized the need for sustainable solutions in the agriculture sector.

Sourced from the Press Information Department (PID), the President pointed out the growing global demand for water due to rapid population increases. Despite Pakistan’s vast water resources, including the expansive Indus River Water System, challenges persist. Reduced snowfall over major mountain ranges and the growing population strains surface water resources. Groundwater, accounting for a significant portion of domestic and agricultural water usage in Pakistan, is rapidly depleting due to increased pumping and mismanagement.

Highlighting the fallout from climate change, Dr. Alvi mentioned the 2022 floods that impacted approximately 30 million people and led to financial losses amounting to US$ 30 billion. Stressing the need to act urgently, the President called for a comprehensive approach to address malnutrition, boost productivity, and conserve resources. This approach would encompass better governance of water and food systems, increased funding for water management and rural projects, and the adoption of efficient irrigation systems.

In his concluding remarks, President Alvi reaffirmed that agricultural growth is pivotal for the nation’s progress, stating that it has the potential to elevate farm incomes, enhance food productivity, and support export surpluses. He assured that the agriculture sector would remain at the forefront of the government’s agenda, aiming to uplift the economy and improve the livelihoods of the people.