Ayesha Saba

Pakistan has approved and recommended several major agriculture and water sector initiatives aimed at expanding irrigation access, improving climate resilience, strengthening livestock health systems and boosting agricultural productivity. According to the Monthly Development Update for November 2025 issued by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, the initiatives include major allocations for Punjab’s agricultural reforms, rehabilitation of irrigation infrastructure and expansion of the Tarbela–Gandaf Tunnel system to improve water distribution and boost crop yields.

The report highlights that two major agriculture projects worth Rs116.5 billion have been recommended to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for final approval. These schemes are designed to enhance access to agricultural water, improve on-farm productivity and raise farm incomes through modern irrigation practices and climate-resilient approaches. The projects focus on expanding reliable water supply systems, improving water-use efficiency and helping farming communities transition to more resilient, productive agricultural methods.

The report notes that these initiatives aim to secure long-term sustainability of agricultural output amid climate change and fluctuating water availability. Alongside these large-scale agriculture initiatives, the government has approved a Rs7.35 billion project to strengthen animal health systems. The project aims to improve national capacity for disease detection, surveillance and response, in addition to enhancing compliance with international standards on animal health and traceability.

According to the report, the initiative will support improved livestock management practices, which play a critical role in rural economies and food security. Strengthened systems are expected to reduce disease-related losses, improve monitoring of animal health and promote safer, more efficient trade of livestock and related products. The Monthly Development Update also outlines key developments in the water sector, including approval of a Rs5.65 billion project to restore irrigation infrastructure damaged by recent floods.

The project seeks to rehabilitate critical parts of the irrigation network supporting the Kachhi Canal and ensure reliable water supply to its command areas. The report emphasises that restoring damaged irrigation systems is essential for sustaining agricultural activities and supporting livelihoods in affected regions. Another major water sector initiative is the recommendation of a Rs15.65 billion project to ECNEC for expanding the Tarbela Dam water supply system through construction of the Gandaf Tunnel.

The project is intended to improve irrigation efficiency, increase water availability for agriculture and support higher crop productivity. The expansion is expected to improve distribution across command areas and strengthen long-term agricultural development by ensuring more consistent and reliable water flows. The Planning Ministry noted that these initiatives collectively represent a significant step toward addressing structural challenges in the agriculture and water sectors.

The projects are expected to help Pakistan build resilience against climate-related shocks, improve water resource management and support farmers in adopting more sustainable and productive practices. The report states that the initiatives align closely with the government’s broader development priorities, including strengthening food security, expanding rural development and improving climate adaptation. By investing in modern irrigation systems, enhancing livestock health capabilities and promoting climate-resilient practices, the government aims to secure long-term gains for farming communities and rural populations.

According to the document, the approved and recommended agriculture and water sector projects also carry significant employment potential. These investments form part of a broader development portfolio expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the coming years, contributing to rural economic stability and improved livelihoods.

The report concludes that the government remains committed to expanding agricultural productivity, strengthening food systems and improving water availability through targeted development investments. The new initiatives are expected to enhance the resilience of Pakistan’s agriculture sector and support sustainable growth in regions dependent on reliable water access for crop production.

Credit: INP-WealthPk