China's Remarkable Development Is Driven by Its Agriculture: Khurram Nawaz Gandapur

Successive Governments Have Neglected Pakistan's Agriculture, Says PAT Secretary General

Secretary General of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT), Khurram Nawaz Gandapur, said that China's extraordinary economic rise is rooted in its strong agricultural sector. He stated that comprehensive agricultural reforms enabled China to achieve food self-sufficiency and social stability, adding that the true secret behind China's prosperity lies in revitalizing its rural economy.

He criticized successive governments in Pakistan for neglecting agriculture and the farming community. According to him, the countries that have achieved economic strength and industrial growth are those whose industries are supported by raw materials produced through their agricultural sectors.

Gandapur said Pakistan is naturally endowed with immense agricultural potential. "Allah has blessed us with all four seasons, fertile plains, and a hardworking workforce. However, inconsistent policies, political instability, and short-sighted leadership have rendered both Pakistan's agriculture and the country's economy ineffective."

He lamented that Pakistan, once among the world's leading exporters of wheat, cotton, and rice, has now become heavily dependent on food imports, with even wheat being imported. He warned that if the current situation continues, the country's wheat import bill could eventually exceed its petroleum import bill. "The very commodities that could have earned Pakistan substantial foreign exchange are now consuming our foreign reserves through imports," he said.

He further stated that Pakistan has been blessed with one of the world's finest irrigation systems, but poor water management, criminal negligence in the construction of water reservoirs, and governments limiting themselves to publicity statements have pushed the country's 250 million people to the brink of food insecurity.

Gandapur added that the decline of the agricultural sector has triggered numerous direct and indirect economic and social problems. He also noted that the unchecked expansion of canal networks is another consequence of the long-standing neglect of agriculture.