Agriculture

Agriculture

The Agriculture Research Team at the Policy Research and Advisory Council (PRAC) is dedicated to fortifying the backbone of Pakistan's economy—the agriculture sector. Contributing approximately 24% to the GDP and employing 37.4% of the workforce, this sector is not only a primary driver of economic growth but also crucial for employment and poverty reduction. It is intricately linked with various industries, enhancing its impact across the economic spectrum. However, the sector grapples with significant challenges that impede its efficiency and productivity, notably the reliance on imports for essential commodities like wheat, cotton, pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables.

Our team commits to conducting rigorous research and formulating strategic policy interventions aimed at promoting sustainable farming techniques, enhancing water management systems, and broadening access to cost-effective and quality agricultural inputs. These focused efforts are designed to bolster the sector's resilience against climate adversities, elevate crop yields, and ensure the long-term sustainability and prosperity of agriculture in Pakistan. Through these initiatives, PRAC aims to deliver profound insights and pragmatic recommendations to uplift the agriculture sector, thereby catalyzing broader economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for the farming community.

Key engagements and advocacy initiatives of the team are as follows:

• Research and Policy Advocacy for Horticulture Export Potential and Value-Addition Opportunities.
• Developed Agriculture Sector Reforms.
• Provide Technical Expertise to the Ministry of Commerce, on Agriculture Related Initiatives.
• Conducted evaluations of agriculture policies in expert discussion forums led by the World Bank, and the International Trade Centre (UN).
• Organized discussions and stakeholder consultations with the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, World Food Programme, FAO, Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, The University of Queensland, Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resource, Provincial Irrigation Department, and Government of Sindh.