Ahmed Khan Malik

The Balochistan government has planned to incentivize livestock farming in the upcoming fiscal year in order to boost rural economy and food security, reports WealthPK.

This initiative, part of a broader agricultural development strategy, is expected to inject a new life into a sector that supports a large portion of the province’s population. With its vast arid land and traditional reliance on animal husbandry, Balochistan has long been known for its livestock potential. However, limited infrastructure, inadequate veterinary support, and poor access to markets have hampered the growth of this critical sector.

Recognizing these challenges, the provincial government is now preparing a multi-faceted incentive plan aimed at addressing systemic weaknesses and encouraging greater participation in livestock farming, Shaukat Shah, Additional Director of the Balochistan Livestock Department, told WealthPK.

He said the new fiscal budget will allocate significant funds to modernize the sector. The key components of the plan include subsidized veterinary services, provision of quality fodder and vaccines, and financial support for small-scale farmers. Mobile veterinary units are also expected to be deployed to remote regions, ensuring that even the most isolated communities can access animal health services.

Shaukat said one of the government’s priorities is to improve the genetic quality of livestock through the introduction of improved breeding programs. These initiatives will be supplemented with farmer training sessions, aiming to raise awareness about the best practices in animal care, disease management, and sustainable farming techniques.

Moreover, he said, the government is looking to establish livestock markets and collection centers in various districts to facilitate better access to buyers. By improving the supply chain, the administration hopes to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their animals and related products such as milk, wool, and hides.

The Balochistan Livestock Department additional director said the plan also includes financial incentives in the form of low-interest loans and grants for individuals and cooperatives willing to invest in livestock farming. In particular, women and youth are expected to be primary beneficiaries of these schemes, helping to create inclusive economic opportunities in rural areas.

He believed that this renewed focus on livestock could have a transformative impact on Balochistan’s economy. Livestock contributes significantly to the province’s GDP, and with proper support, it has the potential to generate thousands of jobs, reduce poverty, and contribute to food self-sufficiency. He hoped that with consistent policy support and effective implementation, the livestock sector could see an unprecedented growth in the coming years.

Credit: INP-WealthPk