TODAY, Dec 18, happens to be the National Farmers’ Day, or the Kissan Day, in Pakistan. The day was first celebrated in 2019 to acknowledge the efforts of the farmers and their contribution to the economic prosperity of the country, as well as to highlight their issues. The day is of utmost significance because of the critical role of the agriculture sector in the national economy.

It is time for us, the people of Pakistan, to thank our farming community — every member of it regardless of gender, ethnicity or any other divide. Let us salute them with a smile. Thank you, farmers, for tilling the soil and working hard day in and day out so that we may have food on our table. You have been great. May your tribe increase!

Our farmers’ welfare and prosperity are dependent on sustainable agriculture with the provision of high-quality seeds, micro-nutrients, insecticide, micro-irrigation techniques, and soil conservation assistance.

Besides, mechanisation, technology, plant varieties, training and systematic extension of agricultural credit are crucial for keeping the agrarian economy green; as green as the national flag.

We wish our farmers a safe and bountiful Rabi season ahead. We are grateful for their dedication and lifelong commitment, and for keeping our breadbasket brimming.

Faisal Habib
Karachi

Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2022