Pakistan’s farming community has expressed disappointment over the federal budget 2026, saying it failed to address the urgent needs of the agriculture sector. Leaders of the farming community believe the budget missed an important opportunity to support farmers facing rising costs and declining profits.
Speaking at a press conference in Multan, Pakistan Kissan Ittehad President Khalid Mahmood Khokhar said agriculture remains the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and plays a vital role in ensuring food security. He stressed that despite its major contribution to employment and national income, the sector did not receive the policy attention it deserved.
Khokhar pointed out that farmers were expecting relief measures in electricity bills, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs. According to him, reducing production costs is essential for making farming sustainable and profitable.
He highlighted that important crops such as cotton, wheat, maize, potatoes, and mangoes have been facing serious pricing and marketing problems over the past few years. These issues have directly affected farmers’ incomes and created uncertainty for future crop production.
The Kissan Ittehad chief also emphasized the need for stronger investment in agricultural research, climate adaptation, and productivity improvements. He explained that changing weather patterns and water shortages are making farming more challenging, and without proper planning, food production could suffer.
Khokhar urged the government to involve farmers and agricultural stakeholders in policy-making to create practical solutions for the sector. He said Pakistan has the potential to achieve agricultural self-sufficiency if the right policies are introduced.
Farmers believe that timely support, better market systems, and reduced input costs can strengthen Pakistan’s agriculture and secure the livelihoods of millions who depend on farming.
