Pakistan’s agricultural sector is integral to its economy, contributing approximately 18.5% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing around 38.5% of the labor force. It is confronted with a range of complex challenges that significantly hinder its growth and long-term sustainability. There are a few key constraints, such as land fragmentation, inefficient irrigation systems, limited access to modern agricultural technologies, and the ongoing conversion of arable land for urban and industrial purposes, impede the sector’s ability to meet both domestic and global demands. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive understanding of their root causes and the development of targeted, strategic solutions. Pakistan has the potential to unlock greater agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and ensure a more resilient and prosperous rural economy in the future by tackling these constraints.

Land fragmentation severely impacts agricultural efficiency in Pakistan. The average number of fragments per farm is three, with 34% of the total 8.26 million farms exhibiting fragmentation, resulting in approximately 8.58 million fragments nationwide. Notably, 6.55 million of these fragments belong to farmers owning less than 12.5 acres. In Punjab, the country’s most agriculturally productive region, about 68% of farms are small and subsistent, making it challenging to implement modern agricultural technologies effectively. These fragmented holdings limit the adoption of modern farming techniques and reduce economies of scale. Empirical studies have demonstrated a negative correlation between land fragmentation and crop productivity, highlighting the need for land consolidation initiatives. The government has recognized this issue, and policies promoting land consolidation are being advocated to enhance agricultural productivity.

Efficient water management is crucial for Pakistan’s agriculture, given its reliance on irrigation. The country boasts one of the largest contiguous irrigation systems globally, with over 93% of its water used in agriculture. However, this system faces significant inefficiencies, with more than 60% of water lost during conveyance and application due to poor maintenance and conventional irrigation methods. The Warabandi system, a rotational water allocation method, aims to distribute water equitably among farmers. However, challenges such as system deterioration, inadequate maintenance, and corruption hinder its effectiveness. Strengthening the Warabandi system through improved maintenance, transparent management, and technological upgrades can enhance water distribution efficiency. Addressing these issues is vital for ensuring equitable and efficient water use in agriculture.

The conversion of agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes poses a significant threat to food security and rural livelihoods. Factors driving this conversion include urban expansion, industrial development, and infrastructure projects. Implementing policies that regulate land use and protect agricultural zones is essential to preserve arable land. Understanding the drivers of land conversion is crucial for formulating effective land-use policies.

Integrating agroforestry practices offers a sustainable solution to land degradation and enhances agricultural productivity. Agroforestry combines trees with crops and livestock, improving soil fertility, conserving water, and providing additional income sources for farmers. In Pakistan, agroforestry systems contribute significantly to soil conservation and carbon sequestration. Promoting agroforestry can lead to environmental sustainability and economic benefits for rural communities.

Comprehensive land reforms are essential to address systemic issues in land distribution and utilization. Policies aimed at equitable land distribution, support for small-scale farmers, and the promotion of efficient land use can transform the agricultural landscape. Reforms should focus on enhancing land tenure security, providing access to credit, and facilitating the adoption of modern agricultural practices. Historical attempts at land reforms, such as those in 1959, 1972, and 1977, have faced challenges in implementation and legal hurdles, underscoring the need for well-designed and enforceable policies.

Embracing technological innovations is crucial for modernizing agriculture. Initiatives like the Land Information and Management System (LIMS) aim to digitize farming processes, providing farmers with access to climate data, crop monitoring, and efficient water management tools. Such technologies can enhance decision-making, improve resource utilization, and increase yields. Studies have shown that digital platforms can empower farmers by providing timely information and market access, contributing to improved agricultural practices and livelihoods.

Developing rural infrastructure, including roads, storage facilities, and market access, is vital for supporting agricultural activities. Projects like the Kachhi Canal aim to provide sustainable irrigation to vast areas, transforming arid lands into productive agricultural zones. The Kachhi Canal, a 399 km long project, starts from Taunsa Barrage at the Indus River and terminates in Balochistan, providing irrigation to 720,000 acres in Balochistan and 30,000 acres in Punjab. Improved infrastructure facilitates efficient input and output logistics, reduces post-harvest losses, and enhances farmers’ market access. Research highlights that infrastructure development is key to boosting agricultural productivity and rural economies.

Pakistan’s agriculture is highly susceptible to climate change, facing challenges such as erratic weather patterns, water scarcity, and increased frequency of extreme events. Adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices, including regenerative agriculture, can mitigate adverse effects. Regenerative practices focus on soil health, biodiversity, and reduced chemical inputs, enhancing resilience to climate variability. Studies suggest that regenerative agriculture can improve yields and sustainability, offering a viable path forward in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Addressing the land constraints in Pakistan’s agriculture requires a multifaceted approach that combines policy reforms, technological innovation, sustainable practices, and infrastructure development. Pakistan can significantly enhance its agricultural productivity by focusing on land consolidation, efficient irrigation, protection against land conversion, agroforestry, and climate change adaptation. Furthermore, the government must prioritize land reforms that ensure equitable land distribution and support for small-scale farmers, enabling them to access modern farming techniques and secure land tenure. Investment in rural infrastructure, such as roads, storage facilities, and market access, is also crucial to improving the efficiency of agricultural value chains. Through these strategies, Pakistan can bolster its agrarian sector, safeguard food security, and create a resilient rural economy that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change and population growth. Implementing these reforms will require strong collaboration between government institutions, farmers, and stakeholders to create a comprehensive and sustainable framework for agricultural growth in the country.