The agriculture sector is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, employing over 36% of the labor force and contributing around 19% to GDP. Despite its importance, it faces numerous chronic challenges affecting productivity and sustainability.

Key issues include:

• Water scarcity due to inefficient irrigation and declining water tables

• Outdated farming techniques and machinery

• Lack of access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides

• Low crop yields compared to regional averages

• Fragmented landholdings and lack of land reforms

• Inadequate storage and transport facilities

• Limited access to credit for small farmers

• Impact of climate change, floods, and droughts

Pakistan heavily relies on a few major crops (wheat, rice, cotton, sugarcane), making it vulnerable to market and climate shocks. The pricing mechanism and middlemen exploitation further reduce farmers’ profit margins.

Efforts such as Kissan Cards, subsidies, research institutions, and modern irrigation projects exist but need better implementation.

To revive agriculture, Pakistan must invest in agri-tech, ensure water efficiency, expand crop diversification, improve market access, and enhance farmer education. Strengthening this sector is critical for food security, rural development, and economic stability.