ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the transformative potential of Pakistan’s agricultural sector in revitalizing the national economy during a meeting with agricultural stakeholders in Islamabad. The discussion aimed to gather insights ahead of the Federal Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister announced the modernization of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council in collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance agricultural research and innovation. Shehbaz Sharif called for the establishment of a committee composed of experts and stakeholders to drive sustainable agricultural development and reforms.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of federal and provincial coordination, focusing on increasing crop yields, promoting climate-resilient seeds, and advancing agricultural mechanization. A particular emphasis was placed on improving cotton production in Balochistan, with the immediate issuance of a notification for the reconstituted Cotton Board.

The meeting also addressed the dairy and livestock sectors, with participants expressing support for the government’s initiatives such as the newly introduced Seed Policy. The ‘Zarkhez-e Scheme’ was highlighted, which offers loans to small farmers, while the State Bank of Pakistan provides risk coverage and crop-loss insurance. Drafts of the National Animal Health Act and the National Breeding Policy were also discussed.

The delegation, consisting of representatives from various agricultural sectors, praised the government’s efforts and expressed confidence in its economic strategies, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration to ensure sustainable growth and food security.