PM directs to ensure easy term loans for farmers

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed to ensure the provision of loans to farmers be ensured on easy terms.

In the meeting regarding reforms in the agricultural sector, the Prime Minister said that the agricultural sector is being developed on modern lines to achieve agricultural self-sufficiency. The vast potential of the agricultural sector will be utilized for the rapid development of the economy. Allah Almighty has blessed Pakistan with fertile land, capable agricultural experts, and hardworking farmers.

He stated that to increase domestic production, focus should be placed on agricultural research. There is a need to formulate a policy for sustainable and long-term agro-industrial development so that, along with agriculture, forests are also promoted in the country, which are extremely important to combat environmental changes.

The Prime Minister directed to formulate a coordinated strategy for the development of the agricultural sector in consultation with the relevant parties and to ensure consultation with the provinces in this regard, and called for a National Agri-Innovation Plan regarding the agricultural sector.

He also said that the ongoing reforms in the agricultural seed certification system should be accelerated; an effective action plan should be prepared for the promotion of high-quality seeds. The promotion of modern technology is our priority, and a comprehensive regulatory framework should be set up.

The meeting was attended by the working group formed for reforms in the agricultural sector.

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Climate Change Mosaddiq Malik, and relevant senior government officials.