- Government injects Rs20 billion into livestock to boost economy and food security
Sources recorded that the Government of Pakistan is investing Rs20 billion in livestock development projects. These include the launch of a ‘Livestock Farmer Card’ and a broad strategy to control and prevent livestock diseases. A main goal of this initiative is to ensure the export of disease-free meat, with a target of breeding 400,000 calves to strengthen not just the livestock sector as its growth will help boost economy and food security.
| Pakistan: Estimated Livestock Population (million numbers) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Species | 2021-221 | 2022-231 | 2023-241 |
| Cattle | 53.4 | 55.5 | 57.5 |
| Buffalo | 43.7 | 45.0 | 46.3 |
| Sheep | 31.9 | 32.3 | 32.7 |
| Goat | 82.5 | 84.7 | 87.0 |
| Camels | 1.1 | 1.1 | 1.2 |
| Horses | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.4 |
| Asses | 5.7 | 5.8 | 5.9 |
| Mules | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
| Estimated figure based on inter-census growth rate of Livestock Census 1996 & 2006 | |||
Animal husbandry is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s rural economy, with greater than 8 million rural families deeply engaged in livestock production. This sector is a vital lifeline for these families, contributing significantly to their livelihoods by accounting for almost 35-40 per cent of their total income. In the broader economic landscape, the livestock sector has solidified its position as the primary driver of agricultural growth, comprising almost 60.84 per cent of the agricultural value added and 14.63 per cent of the national GDP during FY2024. The gross value addition of the livestock sector has shown a rise, rising to Rs 5,804 billion in FY2024 from Rs 5,587 billion in FY2023, marking a growth rate of 3.9 per cent. Moreover, the sector’s net foreign exchange earnings make a meaningful contribution, accounting for almost 1.6 per cent of the total exports in Pakistan. The government recognised the inherent potential of this sector for economic growth, food security, and poverty alleviation in Pakistan and has accordingly focused on its development. The overall strategy for livestock development revolves around promoting private sector-led development with the public sector offering an enabling environment by policy interventions.
Regulatory measures have been implemented to enhance per unit animal productivity by enhancing veterinary health coverage, husbandry practices, animal breeding practices, assisted reproductive techniques, artificial insemination services, use of balanced ration for animal feeding, and controlling livestock diseases like FMDE, PPR, LSD, and Avian Influenza.
The government officials recorded that the primary objective is to leverage the potential of the livestock sector for economic growth, food security, and rural socioeconomic uplift. To address investment-related issues in the value-added livestock export sector, the government is considering developing export meat processing zones and disease-free zones and compartments for FMD, PPR, and HPAI, among others, as well as facilitating the establishment of modern slaughterhouses based on the industry’s requirements.
The focus of the present government is on breed improvement for improved productivity, organizing a nucleus herd, identifying breeds well adapted to various agro-ecological zones of Pakistan, and importing high-yielding exotic dairy, beef, mutton breeds, and genetic materials. By implementing these measures, the government aims to stimulate growth in the livestock sector, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to the country’s overall economic growth and food security. No doubt, the livestock sector is a critical component of Pakistan’s economy, contributing significantly to agriculture, rural livelihoods, and food security.
However, managing and improving its growth poses challenges, particularly in balancing the dual targets of maximizing economic benefits while minimizing environmental impacts. The sector faces issues like overgrazing, deforestation, methane emissions, and inadequate safety standards in food production. To address these concerns, there is a need for diversification within the sector, enhanced livestock management practices, and stricter safety protocols.
Achieving this requires robust regulatory frameworks and substantial investment from both private and public institutions. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has provided the regulatory framework enabling many banks and financial institutions to offer agri-loans. Experts recorded that diversification through a comprehensive overhaul of the livestock business in Pakistan is an immediate requirement. One effective approach is the development of entrepreneurship within identified clusters, particularly targeting young graduates from agricultural universities. This sector in Pakistan indeed offers significant growth potential, especially in rural areas where it serves as a critical source of livelihood. However, unlocking this potential will require greater than superficial intervention. It needs a combination of strategic investments, technological integration, and innovative financial support to drive sustainable growth. More than general reforms, it mandates a strategic overhaul tailored to the country’s unique challenges and opportunities.