ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved major reforms in Pakistan’s agricultural research system.
The reforms will increase the use of artificial intelligence, modern technology and research institutions.
The prime minister approved a new master plan for the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC).
He approved the plan during a meeting on agricultural reforms on August 22. He also directed authorities to begin implementation quickly.
The government aims to improve farm productivity through modern research and technology.
AI to Help Detect Crops and Pests
Officials briefed the meeting about several technology-based agricultural projects.
One project uses AI to identify plants and detect pests. The initiative could help farmers identify crop problems more efficiently.
Officials also discussed a SUPARCO-backed programme for crop assessment. The Pakistan Tobacco Board Automation Project was also presented.
Several short-term technology projects have already entered the implementation stage.
The government is also working on a national system for estimating crop production.
Prime Minister Shehbaz directed authorities to develop a comprehensive production estimation system.
He also ordered certified companies to ensure farmers receive quality seeds.
The government said improving per-acre productivity remains a major priority. Small and medium-scale farmers are expected to benefit from these measures.
NARC to Be Restructured
The new master plan proposes a major restructuring of NARC.
The research centre will be divided into seven districts. The move aims to bring the facility closer to international standards.
The upgraded NARC will include five Centres of Excellence. It will also have reference laboratories and a biorepository.
New research centres will also be established under the plan.
The project includes a research park for private-sector participation. It will also feature a Centre for International Cooperation.
A Living Laboratory and Public Discovery Park are also part of the proposed development.
The prime minister directed officials to improve the performance of NARC and the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council.
Their research activities will also be aligned with international standards.
More Support for Farmers
The government is accelerating the Agriculture Innovation and Growth Plan 2026-27.
The plan covers agricultural machinery, modern technology and digitalisation. It also focuses on research, training, food security and financing.
Several financial initiatives are included in the programme.
These include Kisan Ghar refinance and crop insurance. Electronic warehouse receipt financing is also part of the plan.
Farm machinery financing is another proposed support measure for farmers.
The Prime Minister’s National District Development Programme is also included.
Pakistan is developing cotton and date clusters in Balochistan. These areas will serve as pilot sites for organic farming.
The government is also working on national organic farming standards. Group certification and digital traceability systems are planned.
Officials aim to connect agricultural research with certification and storage facilities.
The system will also link farmers with processing and international markets.
The government expects these measures to improve farmer incomes and support agricultural exports.
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The increased use of AI and modern technology is expected to play an important role. The reforms aim to make Pakistan’s agriculture sector more productive and competitive.
