Ahmed Khan Malik

The Balochistan government will invest in the Food Security Revolving Fund to ensure food security in the province.

“The provincial government has decided to invest Rs1 billion initially in this Fund during the current financial year and will invest more if the need arises,” said Mohsin Qambrani, Additional Director of Food Department, while talking to WealthPK. He said wheat was the staple food in the province and the government was sparing no efforts to ensure its uninterrupted supply. The government also keeps the strategic wheat stock and is working to ensure the availability of other grains in the province.

Balochistan is socially and economically the most backward province of Pakistan where a big chunk of population is living in poverty. Despite being an agricultural region, Balochistan is particularly characterized by low crop yields, lack of water, and limited access to the basic amenities. As an arid and semi-arid region, with limited water resources, this southwestern province is primarily dependent on rain-fed agriculture, which is characterized by low crop yields due to the erratic rainfall patterns and poor soil quality. Moreover, lack of modern irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation and sprinkler systems, exacerbate the problem of low crop yields . The province has a high poverty rate, with an estimated 71% of the population living below the poverty line. Poverty and inequality limit access to education and healthcare, affecting the nutritional outcomes.

Bashir Magsi, Director of Planning, told WealthPK that the World Food Program (WFP) Pakistan and Balochistan Government joined hands recently to ensure food security in the country. As part of the agreement, the WFP will work with the Balochistan to translate plans into actions aligned with government priorities. Further, the WFP will provide technical assistance to the relevant departments while actively mobilizing resources as required. “WFP is a strategic partner of the Government of Balochistan and has contributed significantly to the province. Without WFP’s support, we might be in trouble reaching out to vulnerable and needy communities on such a large scale,” he said. This agreement comes after the Economic Affairs Division approved the WFP’s CSP for the next five years – a significant milestone towards addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable development.

Among the four provinces of Pakistan, multidimensional poverty is highest in Balochistan. According to the data, 70 percent of the population in Balochistan is identified as multidimensionally poor. To unlock its growth potential, Balochistan needs targeted government initiatives, especially in addressing financial struggles and improving key areas like health, education and food security. The government can propel the province towards a brighter future by maximizing the use of Balochistan’s abundant natural resources while enhancing the quality of life for its people. “The Balochistan government has the vision to develop the province and feed its population properly. The food security measures are targeted to these objectives,” said Magsi.

Credit: INP-WealthPk