Food Security in Pakistan

Food Security in Pakistan

Partner: Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relation (ICRIER)

Year: 2008-09

Team Members:  Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Shakeel Ahmed

Objectives:

This study was part of the regional project, Food Security in SAARC. Principal objectives of the study were to identify central issues of food security, to identify major initiatives and policies for combating food insecurity and to formulate a policy road map at both the regional and national levels. The study primarily analyzed the state of food security indicators, the policy framework, the role of regional trade and the role of food banks in South Asia.

Recommendation:

The study puts forward a set of recommendations to address identified issues related to food insecurity in Pakistan. Recommendations include intensive investment in research, technology and extension services to enhance productivity. Further recommendations propose that safety nets for the poor should be developed, including major increases in funding for the health sector, especially for illnesses that are often ignored such as gastronomic diseases. It is recommended that a National Food Security Policy be developed covering all aspects of food security that regional trade in food should be facilitated through better infrastructure and concessions and that regional food banks should be given a prime focus. The report also recognizes the importance of improving relations between nations in pursuing a food secure future, especially in regards to Pakistan and India, and recommends improvements in this regard.