ISLAMABAD: The potential of agricultural productivity in the country is decreasing with time and is not comparable with leading producing countries, a study commissioned by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on agricultural value-chain development in Pakistan said.

       The study, prepared by the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad for the ADB, notes that a free market economy will be the best available option. The role of the government should be to protect the interests of small growers only, whereas corporate agriculture will take care of itself, it adds.

       If proper law enforcement is ensured, the market will clear out any surpluses, shortages, and thus exploitations, and will eventually settle down. It further adds that productivity can be increased with the provision of good quality inputs like seeds, fertilisers and pesticides.

       Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2022