Quetta: The Government of Balochistan has approved the Balochistan Organic Agriculture Policy 2024, marking a significant shift in the province’s approach to agriculture. The policy aims to promote environmental sustainability, stimulate economic growth, and increase farmers’ resilience to climate change. It is expected to enhance local biodiversity, improve food security, and reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported organic cotton, thereby saving millions of dollars in foreign exchange.
According to WWF-Pakistan, Balochistan’s Agriculture Extension Department is collaborating with 12,000 farmers across 95,000 acres to promote organic farming practices. In the 2023-24 period, 67,067 acres of organic cotton have been globally certified in districts such as Barkhan, Lasbela, Kohlu, and Khuzdar, highlighting the province’s expanding role in sustainable cotton production.
Muhammad Jahangir Kakar, Special Secretary Agriculture and Cooperative Department, Government of Balochistan, noted that the policy represents a shift towards a more sustainable, ecological, and economically viable agricultural model. He mentioned that WWF-Pakistan, in partnership with the Agriculture Extension Department, launched a project in 2016, resulting in the production of Pakistan’s first organic cotton bale. He also acknowledged the Laudes Foundation for its continued support, facilitating the policy’s development.
Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General WWF-Pakistan, expressed pride in supporting the policy, emphasizing its role in boosting local biodiversity and farmer resilience. He noted the policy’s significance in promoting organic cotton production and reducing reliance on imports, as well as the successful management of over 95,000 acres of certified organic land.
The initiative has garnered support from organizations like the Laudes Foundation and local industries, including Artistic Milliners, Soorty Textile, Artistic Fabric Mills, Sapphire, and Gul Ahmed. Organic certification by the Control Union under the NOP (USDA) and EU standards has opened access to high-demand markets in the US and Europe.
Balochistan, with its natural resources such as clean air, unpolluted water, and fertile land, is well-positioned to lead in organic farming. This effort is anticipated to strengthen the province’s economy and enhance its presence in the global organic cotton market, aligning with international sustainability goals.