ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asked the authorities on Tuesday to present a comprehensive action plan to boost productivity and introduce reforms in the country’s agriculture sector.

“Improving agricultural productivity, value addition, and increasing exports of agricultural products are top priorities of the government,” the prime minister said while chairing a meeting on the performance of the agriculture sector.

He directed that a short- and long-term action plan be presented for introducing modern agricultural machinery, quality seeds, geographical distribution of crops, and provision of easy loans to farmers.

The prime minister directed that agricultural research centres be made more effective to boost farm output.

He further directed that modern research be ensured through public-private partnerships in research centres.

PM Shehbaz emphasised that the government should consult renowned experts for the effective use of artificial intelligence and modern technology in agriculture.

He instructed that an action plan be presented for the development of small- and medium-sized agro-industries to enable the value addition of agricultural commodities and enhance export-ready products.

To promote cultivation of profitable crops and make the country self-sufficient in food security, the prime minister directed that all guidance and support be provided to farmers.

Businessmen meeting

Meanwhile, in a meeting with top industrialists and business leaders, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed his government’s commitment to economic stability, export-led growth, and facilitating the private sector.

The meeting was attended by prominent figures from the textile, agriculture, cement, and IT sectors, including Mian Mansha. The PM emphasised that future development would be driven by domestic resource mobilisation, reducing dependency, and making Pakistan economically self-reliant.

He also announced his intention to hold monthly meetings with the business community, adding the government would consult private sector experts across every domain.

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2025