THE prime minister recently met Bill Gates in New York, and media reports of the meeting suggest there might be some cooperation between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation in the field of agricul- ture. Although no detailed investment agreement has been confirmed, such cooperation could introduce advanced technology, improved seeds and climate-resilient farming techniques. Agriculture contributes significantly to the national GDP, and any development in this critical domain has to be studied well.

Every opportunity comes with risks. Excessive dependence on imported seeds and technology could raise production costs and increase pressure on foreign exchange reserves. Excessive mechanisation may also affect rural employment if introduced without planning, and new farming techniques must be tested against water availability and changing climate.

The government must strike a balance between innovation and independence by promoting local research, domestic seed production and technology transfer. We must not put all our eggs in one basket by relying excessively on foreign suppliers.

Muqadas Fatima Memon
Larkana

Published in Dawn, November 13th, 2026