Declining Crop Yields Raise Alarm: Farmers Demand Government Action

The Growing Crisis of Declining Crop Yields

Progressive farmers are raising serious concerns over declining crop yields, blaming climate change, ineffective pesticides, inferior seed quality, water shortages, and the lack of government intervention. Despite the increasing number of pesticide companies, farmers report that their products are failing to protect crops from viruses and pest attacks.

Ineffective Pesticides and Growing Market Concerns

Currently, around 680 pesticide companies operate in the country, with approximately half importing 130,000 metric tonnes of pesticides worth about $360 million (around Rs10 billion). The rest are involved in formulation and marketing. Despite the introduction of numerous new pesticides each year, their efficacy remains questionable.

The Need for Stricter Regulations

Farmers argue that the influx of pesticide companies has led to an oversaturated market with poor-quality products. They demand a ban on the registration of new pesticide companies and call for strict monitoring of pesticide quality to ensure crops receive effective protection against pests and diseases.

The Decline of Major Crops in Pakistan

Pakistan’s major crops—wheat, sugarcane, cotton, and rice—are experiencing declining yields. Despite technological advancements and the availability of numerous agricultural inputs, yields are failing to meet national requirements.

Cotton Production Crisis

According to veteran agriculturalist Nabi Bux Sathio, 15-20 years ago, cotton yields ranged from 30-35 maunds per acre, with some areas achieving up to 55-60 maunds. Today, the maximum yield has dropped to 15 maunds per acre, with minimum yields hovering between 6 and 10 maunds.

• The government set a target of 13 million bales for the 2024-2025 season.
• Only 5.5 million bales have been procured—2.8 million from Sindh and 2.7 million from Punjab.
• Pakistan’s cotton requirement stands at 11 million bales, forcing the government to import at least 5 million bales.

Declining Wheat Yields and Rising Shortages

Farmers also fear a 25-30% drop in wheat production from the government’s 30 MMT target. Last year, wheat farmers struggled with unprofitable rates, forcing many to reduce their planted areas.

• The national wheat consumption is 29 MMT, but production could be at least 3 MMT short.
• No buffer stock exists to handle emergencies such as floods or droughts.
• Farmers were forced to sell wheat at Rs2,200-Rs2,500 per maund, but the market rate has now risen to Rs2,900 per maund.

Farmers’ Struggles with Substandard Seeds and Fertilizers

Progressive farmer Dr. Shakeel Palh from Tando Allahyar highlighted the major challenge of substandard seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Despite being advised to adopt modern techniques, farmers receive poor-quality agricultural inputs, which significantly impact crop yields.

Lack of Government Investment in R&D

The government fails to invest in research and development (R&D) for modern seed varieties. No significant steps have been taken to introduce high-yielding and climate-resistant seed varieties, leaving farmers dependent on ineffective solutions.

• Low-yield seeds contribute to the declining production of major crops.
• Ineffective fertilizers fail to replenish soil nutrients.
• Fake or adulterated products flood the market, worsening the crisis.

Urgent Need for Government Intervention

Farmers stress the need for strict action against local market mafias involved in selling fraudulent seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers. Without government intervention, falling crop yields will continue to threaten food security in Pakistan.

• Policy reforms must prioritize agricultural input quality.
• Financial support should be provided to farmers struggling with crop losses.
• Investment in modern seed development is crucial for sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

The declining crop yields in Pakistan present a serious threat to food security and economic stability. Farmers, agricultural experts, and stakeholders demand immediate government intervention to regulate pesticide companies, ensure quality agricultural inputs, and invest in research and development. Without decisive action, Pakistan may face severe food shortages and increased dependency on imports, ultimately harming the country’s economy and its farmers’ livelihoods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why are crop yields declining in Pakistan?

Crop yields are declining due to climate change, poor-quality seeds, ineffective pesticides, water shortages, and low profit margins for farmers.

2. How many pesticide companies operate in Pakistan?

Approximately 680 pesticide companies operate in Pakistan, with around half engaged in importing and the rest involved in formulation and marketing.

3. What impact does ineffective pesticide use have on crop yields?

Poor-quality pesticides fail to protect crops from viral attacks and pests, leading to significant yield losses and financial strain on farmers.

4. What measures can the government take to improve crop yields?

The government should focus on research and development, ensuring quality agricultural inputs, supporting farmers financially, and implementing stricter regulations on pesticide companies.

5. How does the wheat production crisis affect Pakistan’s food security?

Wheat shortages could lead to higher food prices, increased imports, and economic instability, making it difficult for lower-income households to afford basic necessities.