The following recommendations are designed to tackle crucial elements of sustainable agriculture in Pakistan. They urge efficient water management, robust financial support systems, the advancement of agricultural technology, and the establishment of coherent policies. The goal is to enhance the sustainability and resilience of the food supply chain in the country:
o Invest in water storage infrastructure and implement smart water management strategies to efficiently distribute water, particularly for agricultural needs.
o Develop policies and educational programmes to encourage water conservation across industries, agriculture, and households, ensuring equitable water access.
o Allocate financial resources to support climate-resilient agriculture, including the development of drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation systems, and sustainable farming practices.
o Expand financial assistance for farmers through subsidised loans and insurance, facilitating easier access to resources, technology and inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment to ensure affordability and sustainability in farming.
o Implement soil and water testing initiatives to guide farmers in making informed decisions about fertilization and irrigation, enhancing soil health and water use efficiency.
o Offer and mandate crop insurance for farmers, particularly with coverage for irrigation, to safeguard against natural disasters and promote responsible farming.
o Enhance infrastructure, including roads, telecommunications, and internet access, to connect rural and urban areas, aiding farmers in accessing markets, information, and technology.
o Establish a consistent Agricultural Policy Framework for agricultural reforms to safeguard long-term sustainability of the farming sector.
o Incentivise and reward the adoption of digital tools in agriculture to facilitate data collection and promote innovative, sustainable practices.
o Adopt proper packaging methods for food and vegetables to reduce spoilage and extend shelf life in the supply chain.
