ISLAMABAD:
Planning Minister Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Wednesday launched the much-awaited seventh agricultural census, underlining the importance of accurate data collection in policy formulation to effectively address future food security challenges.
“Pakistan’s population growth rate has increased from 2.4 percent to 2.55 percent. If this trend continues, 380 million more people will be added to the current population of 240 million by 2047,” he said while addressing to the launching ceremony of the agricultural census.
Commenting on the possible consequences, he asked the meeting to consider the implications for food security in 2047 if a viable agricultural strategy is not developed based on reliable data collected by field surveyors using digital tools.
“That is why the Ministry of Planning attaches great importance to collecting accurate data. If there are incorrect reports (when compiling statistics), it will lead to wrong policies,” he said.
Iqbal said that the VII Agricultural Census was a key initiative that could revolutionize this sector, which has long been considered the backbone of the national economy.
He expressed confidence that the census results would be available next August and would lay the foundation for the much-needed transformation in the agricultural sector. He highlighted the need to judiciously use available resources and ensure that they are directed towards the right objectives.
Census data would provide critical information on cropping patterns, use of modern machinery and livestock statistics, enabling targeted interventions and encouraging self-reliance in the sector, he added.
The minister also praised the management and team of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) for their efforts in preparing the agricultural census and thanked the provinces for their manpower contributions and support from relevant departments.
For the first time, all agriculture-related censuses covering machinery, livestock and crops have been merged into a single comprehensive census to ensure accurate and actionable data.
The census would leverage advanced technology and a centralized dashboard to streamline data collection and analysis, facilitating targeted interventions and optimal resource allocation.
