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Rs400m project planned to restore rangelands, boost livestock in arid regions

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Rs400m project planned to restore rangelands, boost livestock in arid regions

By Azeem Ahmed Khan

ISLAMABAD, March 31 (Wealth Pakistan) — The Ministry of National Food Security and Research has proposed a Rs400 million project to restore degraded rangelands and promote climate-resilient livestock development in Pakistan’s arid and semi-arid regions.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the five-year initiative will run from July 2026 to June 2031. It aims to improve rangeland management and increase livestock productivity in areas facing harsh climate and limited forage.

Focus on rangeland restoration

The project, titled “Climate-Resilient Rangeland Improvement and Sustainable Livestock Development through Digital Monitoring in Arid Regions of Pakistan”, will restore degraded land through revegetation and better vegetation cover.

It will also introduce silvopastoral systems, ranching models, and alley-cropping. These approaches will improve forage availability and support sustainable grazing practices.

In addition, the project will promote the mass multiplication of elite rangeland species. It will also establish seed and fodder banks to ensure a steady supply of quality forage in dryland regions.

Use of modern technology

A key feature of the project is the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing technologies. These tools will support digital monitoring of rangelands.

They will help improve grazing management, water use, and overall land productivity.

Institutional collaboration

The Rangeland Research Institute at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) will implement the project under the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council.

Several institutions will collaborate on the initiative. These include the Arid Zone Research Center (AZRC) Quetta, AZRI Bahawalpur, AZRI Dera Ismail Khan, and AZRI Umerkot.

Alignment with national priorities

The project aligns with key national and international frameworks. These include the government’s 5Es Framework, the 13th Five-Year Plan, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the National Agriculture Innovation and Growth Program.

It will support sustainable rangeland management, forage development, and improved productivity of indigenous livestock breeds. It will also strengthen the resilience of pastoral communities.

Economic and social impact

The initiative is expected to reduce feed costs and increase livestock productivity. As a result, rural incomes are likely to rise.

Moreover, the project will promote community participation. It will include pastoralists, youth, and women, and help build local capacity in rangeland and livestock management.

Environmental benefits

The project will contribute to desertification control and biodiversity conservation. It will also support soil carbon sequestration and climate adaptation in arid ecosystems.

Key deliverables

The project will restore rangeland areas and improve vegetation cover. It will establish seed and fodder banks and develop a GIS-based monitoring system.

In addition, it will train farmers, pastoralists, and technical workers. It aims to improve livestock productivity, reduce disease and mortality, and increase household income.

Overall, the initiative will strengthen institutional and community capacity. It will also support long-term livestock development in Pakistan’s arid regions.

Punjab working to develop new varieties of durum wheat

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Punjab working to develop new varieties of durum wheat

By Muhammad Luqman

LAHORE, March 30 (Wealth Pakistan): Agricultural scientists in Punjab are developing and promoting new varieties of durum wheat to meet the rising demand of the rapidly expanding pasta industry, as consumption patterns continue to shift toward processed food products.

The Punjab Agriculture Research Board (PARB) has assigned the Wheat Research Institute Faisalabad to lead research, development and popularisation of durum wheat varieties across the province.

“We have developed several durum wheat varieties alongside bread wheat,” said Dr. Javed Ahmad, Chief Scientist at WRI, while speaking to Wealth Pakistan.

Durum wheat contains high protein and gluten. Because of this, millers use it to produce high-quality flour and semolina. These inputs are essential for pasta products such as noodles, macaroni, spaghetti and vermicelli, which are witnessing growing demand in urban markets.

Historical presence and decline

Dr. Javed said farmers widely cultivated durum wheat in Punjab before the 1960s. It was one of nearly 25 wheat varieties grown in the region at that time.

However, cultivation declined after the introduction of high-yielding bread wheat varieties during the Green Revolution, including MexiPak. These varieties offered better yields, which encouraged farmers to shift away from traditional crops.

New varieties enter the market

WRI Faisalabad developed Wadanak-85 as its first durum wheat variety, followed by Durum-97. Recently, the Punjab Seed Council approved Durum-21 for commercial cultivation, marking another step toward reviving the crop.

Meanwhile, the University of Agriculture Faisalabad has introduced Chenab Pasta-24, a variety designed specifically for the pasta industry. Farmers can grow it in both irrigated and rain-fed areas, which makes it suitable for diverse agro-climatic zones across Punjab.

Dr. Javed said manufacturers traditionally relied on bread wheat for pasta production. However, they are now shifting toward durum wheat due to its superior quality and better processing characteristics.

Processing gap slows expansion

A private industrial group in Multan has established a durum wheat grinding plant. It also purchases the crop from local farmers at premium prices, which has created some incentive for cultivation.

Despite this development, farmers still grow limited quantities of durum wheat in Punjab. The main constraint remains the lack of dedicated processing infrastructure across the province.

“Its success depends on the establishment of more milling units across the province,” Dr. Ahmad said.

Industry calls for specialised facilities

Flour millers say the sector cannot expand without specialised milling systems. Existing infrastructure does not support large-scale processing of durum wheat.

“We need to modify existing milling processes to handle durum wheat. At present, not a single mill in Punjab is processing it,” said Asim Raza Ahmad, former chairman of the Pakistan Flour Mills Association.

He added that most manufacturers of vermicelli, noodles, pasta and spaghetti still rely on maida (fine flour) and suji (semolina) derived from bread wheat.

Marketing issues limit adoption

Farmers also face marketing challenges, which discourage them from adopting the crop on a larger scale.

“Except for the industrial group in Multan, most flour mills do not purchase durum wheat because its flour is not suitable for traditional bread,” said Khalid Mahmood Khokhar, Chairman of the Pakistan Kissan Ittehad.

He said the expansion of durum wheat-based industries is essential to revive the crop. He added that farmers widely cultivated it in Punjab about 60 years ago, but its revival now depends on creating a stable demand chain.

Balochistan’s silent water emergency

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Balochistan’s silent water emergency

By Iqbal Basheer

Balochistan is facing a crisis that rarely makes headlines. It does not erupt suddenly or dominate prime-time debates. Yet it is one of the most serious challenges confronting the province. Water scarcity is tightening its grip, slowly but relentlessly.

This is not about a single drought or a temporary shortage. It is a long-term collapse of water security. It affects livelihoods, health, migration, and economic stability. Above all, it threatens survival.

A crisis beyond geography

Balochistan’s harsh climate and low rainfall are well known. The province lies in an arid to semi-arid zone. However, geography alone does not explain the severity of the crisis.

Mismanagement has turned scarcity into disaster. Unregulated groundwater extraction, weak infrastructure, and poor planning have accelerated depletion. What should have been a manageable challenge is now becoming an existential threat.

Groundwater depletion reaches alarming levels

Underground water reserves are declining rapidly. In districts such as Quetta, water tables have dropped significantly over the years. Wells that once required shallow digging now need deep drilling.

Farmers continue to install tube wells to chase falling water levels. Each new borewell provides short-term relief but causes long-term damage. This process is not sustainable. It is effectively mining water.

Unlike minerals, groundwater in arid regions takes years to replenish. Continued extraction without recharge risks permanent loss.

Economic and social consequences

Water scarcity directly impacts agriculture. Orchards are shrinking, and crop yields are becoming unpredictable. As incomes fall, rural families migrate to urban areas.

Cities are already under pressure. Rapid migration increases demand for housing, water, and sanitation. Informal settlements expand, and public health risks rise.

Women and children face the greatest burden. Many travel long distances daily to collect water. This reduces school attendance and limits economic participation. The long-term impact is generational inequality.

Climate change intensifies the challenge

Climate change is worsening the situation. Rainfall patterns have become unpredictable. Dry spells are longer, and temperatures are rising.

Occasional heavy rains do occur, but they often lead to flash floods. Due to weak infrastructure, this water is not stored. Instead, it runs off, eroding soil and wasting a critical resource.

Without dams, recharge systems, and water harvesting structures, rainfall remains underutilised.

Governance gaps and policy failures

Water management in Balochistan lacks coordination. Monitoring of groundwater extraction is limited. Illegal tube wells continue to spread.

Policy responses are often reactive. Water tankers provide temporary relief, but they do not address structural problems. Long-term planning, data transparency, and enforcement remain weak.

Energy subsidies for pumping water may also contribute to over-extraction. Without regulation, such measures can worsen the crisis.

Development at risk

Balochistan holds significant economic potential. Projects linked to Gwadar Port and mineral resources promise growth and investment.

However, development cannot succeed without water security. Industry, urban expansion, and infrastructure all depend on reliable water supply. Without it, economic plans risk collapse.

Water scarcity and social stability

Resource scarcity can fuel tensions. Communities competing over limited water may face conflict. Unequal distribution can create perceptions of injustice.

Water management is therefore not just an environmental issue. It is central to social stability and conflict prevention.

A path forward: From crisis to strategy

Balochistan needs a comprehensive and long-term response. Water security must be treated as a national priority.

Groundwater extraction must be regulated. Authorities should map aquifers, license drilling, and enforce limits. At the same time, recharge systems must expand.

Rainwater harvesting offers a practical solution. Small dams, reservoirs, and watershed projects can store water during rainfall. Traditional systems like karezes should be restored and modernised.

Community involvement is also essential. Local water councils can improve monitoring and accountability. When communities manage resources, compliance improves.

Technology can support these efforts. Drip irrigation can reduce agricultural waste. Satellite mapping can improve data accuracy. Desalination can help coastal areas. However, technology must be backed by strong governance.

Conclusion

Balochistan’s water crisis is silent but severe. It is reshaping livelihoods, weakening systems, and threatening the future.

The warning signs are clear. The cost of inaction is high. This is not just an environmental issue. It is about survival, stability, and development.

The province stands at a turning point. Bold reforms, scientific planning, and collective action are essential. The time for gradual response has passed. The time for decisive action is now.

Quiet tyranny of convenience

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Quiet tyranny of convenience

By Iqbal Basheer

Modern life promises ease. Technology delivers food, entertainment, and information within seconds. This convenience is often celebrated as progress. However, beneath this comfort lies a deeper transformation. It is quietly reshaping how people think, feel, and respond to challenges.

Convenience does not arrive as a visible force. It works subtly. It reduces effort, removes delays, and anticipates needs. While this improves efficiency, it also weakens the human ability to deal with difficulty.

From effort to instant gratification

In the past, effort was essential for survival. People developed patience, resilience, and problem-solving skills through struggle. Today, digital systems remove many of these challenges.

Meals arrive before hunger intensifies. Answers appear before curiosity fully develops. Entertainment fills every moment of boredom. As a result, the human mind becomes used to instant rewards.

This shift affects attention and behaviour. People become less tolerant of delays. Tasks that require time and effort begin to feel frustrating rather than meaningful.

Why friction matters

Friction once played a vital role in learning and growth. Searching through books built focus and discipline. Waiting strengthened patience. Overcoming obstacles improved confidence.

Today, friction is often seen as a problem to eliminate. Yet its absence can create fragility. When people face complex tasks, they may feel overwhelmed. They mistake natural difficulty for personal failure.

This creates a mindset that avoids challenge. Over time, it reduces resilience and limits long-term growth.

Impact on creativity and thinking

Efficiency has become a dominant value. Society rewards speed and productivity. However, creativity often requires time and reflection.

When every moment is optimised, there is little space for deep thinking. The mind becomes reactive instead of reflective. Constant notifications and quick feedback loops shorten attention spans.

As a result, people may struggle with tasks that demand focus, such as learning new skills or building meaningful relationships.

Social and civic consequences

The effects of convenience extend beyond individuals. They also shape society. Democratic systems require patience, dialogue, and critical thinking.

However, fast-paced digital platforms encourage quick reactions. They promote simplified narratives and emotional responses. Complex issues struggle to compete with short, engaging content.

This environment increases polarisation. It reduces the ability to tolerate different viewpoints. Over time, it weakens thoughtful public discussion.

Hidden environmental and economic costs

Convenience also carries hidden costs. Fast delivery and disposable consumption increase pressure on resources. Many people remain unaware of the environmental impact.

At the same time, the burden of convenience often shifts to workers. Labour in delivery systems, gig platforms, and supply chains absorbs the pressure of speed and efficiency.

This creates an imbalance. Comfort for some can lead to hardship for others.

Balancing progress with purpose

Convenience itself is not harmful. It has improved healthcare, communication, and access to knowledge. The challenge lies in how it is used.

Society must find a balance. It should preserve the benefits of technology while protecting the value of effort and struggle.

Individuals can take small steps. Activities such as deep reading, physical exercise, and skill-building help restore focus and discipline. These practices reintroduce meaningful effort into daily life.

Reclaiming the value of effort

Meaning often comes from effort. Achievements feel valuable because they require time and dedication. Without effort, experiences can feel shallow.

History and culture show that growth comes through challenge. Personal development requires facing difficulty, not avoiding it.

This does not mean embracing unnecessary hardship. It means recognising the difference between harmful struggle and meaningful effort.

Conclusion

The rise of convenience has transformed modern life. It offers comfort and efficiency, but it also brings risks. Without awareness, it can reduce resilience, creativity, and depth.

The key question is simple: what kind of people do we want to become? If the answer includes strength, patience, and wisdom, then some level of friction must remain.

Convenience should support human growth, not replace it. By valuing effort and embracing challenge, society can ensure that progress strengthens the human spirit instead of weakening it.

Scholarship gap in Balochistan

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Scholarship gap in Balochistan

By Waseem Hasil

Balochistan stands at a critical moment. The province has a large youth population eager to learn. However, limited financial support continues to block their path to higher education. Despite being Pakistan’s largest province by land, Balochistan remains one of the most underserved in education funding.

This shortage of scholarships is not just a financial issue. It is a systemic barrier. Many talented students from districts like Washuk, Kohlu, and Awaran struggle to enter mainstream academic institutions.

Centralised system creates inequality

The main problem lies in the centralised scholarship system. Most national programmes follow rigid criteria. They rely heavily on high scores in standardised tests.

Students from rural government schools face a clear disadvantage. These schools often lack basic facilities and trained teachers. As a result, students cannot compete equally with those from urban areas.

This system favours privileged students. Those from major cities secure most of the limited scholarships. Meanwhile, capable students from remote areas are left behind.

Digital divide worsens access

The digital divide adds another layer of difficulty. Many students in Balochistan do not have reliable internet access. Without connectivity, they miss deadlines and updates.

Online application processes also create barriers. Many scholarship programmes require complex digital submissions. Students without proper access or guidance struggle to complete these steps.

This gap limits access not only to national programmes but also to international opportunities.

Limited funding fails to meet demand

Provincial funding for higher education remains insufficient. Existing programmes have provided some support, but they fall short of growing needs.

Initiatives such as the Balochistan Education Endowment Fund and Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan have helped many students. However, the scale of support remains limited.

Even students who secure admission to universities often face financial pressure. Rising costs of accommodation, books, and transport force some to drop out before completing their studies.

Need for localised solutions

Addressing this challenge requires a shift in policy. Authorities must move beyond short-term grants. A sustainable and localised funding model is essential.

District-level scholarship desks can provide direct support. These centres can guide students through applications and deadlines. They can also help identify deserving candidates based on local realities.

At the same time, policies must reflect regional disparities. Merit should consider the context of each district rather than a uniform national standard.

Conclusion

Balochistan’s youth have talent and ambition. What they lack is equal opportunity. Without targeted reforms, financial barriers will continue to limit their potential.

Investing in education is investing in the future. Bridging the scholarship gap is not optional. It is necessary for inclusive national development.

Understanding student psychology

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Understanding student psychology

By Zahid Dilwash

Education is one of the most important foundations of human life. It shapes character, builds morality, and helps people understand the difference between right and wrong. Many thinkers have described education as the most powerful tool to change the world. However, the true strength of education depends on teachers.

Teachers are the backbone of any society. They guide students from ignorance to awareness and from confusion to clarity. Their role is not limited to delivering lessons. They must also understand the psychological needs of their students. Without this understanding, education loses its real purpose.

Not all students learn the same way

Every student is different. Just as the five fingers on a hand are not equal, students also have different abilities. Some students excel in academics, while others show strength in creative or practical skills. This diversity is natural and should be respected.

However, many teachers fail to recognise these differences. They often treat all students in the same way. As a result, students who struggle in traditional learning feel ignored or discouraged. This approach creates distance between teachers and students.

Importance of understanding students’ psychology

A teacher’s primary role is to guide, not to impose. Good teachers do not force or insult students for their weaknesses. Instead, they try to understand each student’s mindset and learning capacity.

When teachers understand students’ psychology, they become more approachable. This helps students feel safe and confident in the classroom. It also allows teachers to adopt better teaching methods that suit individual needs.

Many students who appear weak in studies often possess hidden talents. These may include skills in art, sports, or problem-solving. Unfortunately, such talents are often overlooked. Constant criticism and harsh behaviour can damage a student’s confidence and motivation.

A lesson from Taare Zameen Par

A powerful example of this issue can be seen in the film Taare Zameen Par. The story revolves around a young student who struggles with studies but has exceptional artistic talent.

The student faces humiliation from teachers and even from his parents. However, a compassionate teacher, played by Aamir Khan, recognises his potential. Instead of criticising him, the teacher understands his condition and nurtures his talent.

As a result, the same student who once struggled becomes confident and successful. The film delivers a clear message: every child has unique abilities, and it is the teacher’s responsibility to discover and develop them.

Moving beyond rote learning

Education should not rely only on memorisation. Rote learning limits creativity and discourages critical thinking. Teachers should focus on understanding how students learn rather than forcing them to follow a single method.

A supportive teacher creates an environment where students feel encouraged to express themselves. Respect, patience, and empathy are essential qualities in this process.

Conclusion

Every student has potential. The responsibility lies with teachers and parents to recognise and nurture that potential. Education should be based on understanding, not pressure.

When teachers guide students with wisdom and kindness, they build confident individuals. In the long run, this approach strengthens society as a whole.

Fuel crisis closures and education

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Fuel crisis closures and education

By Sassi Nasir Ali

A school is more than a building. It is where a child learns, grows, and dreams of a better future. Today, in Balochistan and across Pakistan, many classrooms stand empty. Schools, colleges, and universities have closed repeatedly due to a severe fuel crisis. With each extension, students lose valuable time.

Closures spread across provinces

In Balochistan, the government first announced that all educational institutions would remain closed until March 31 to save fuel amid rising petrol and diesel demand. In Punjab, authorities ordered closures from March 10 to March 31 and advised schools to shift to online classes where possible. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also introduced fuel-saving measures, including reduced office hours and remote work for government staff.

These steps aim to cut fuel use at a time when global oil prices have increased due to geopolitical tensions and supply constraints. The policy reflects the need to manage limited resources during a difficult period.

Uncertainty deepens concerns

What was already difficult is becoming more uncertain. Reports suggest that authorities may extend closures from April 1 to April 15. The government says it needs more time to manage shortages. However, this uncertainty adds to the stress faced by students and parents.

While the official reasoning is understandable, the education sector should not bear a disproportionate burden. Fuel is essential for transport, agriculture, and emergency services. Yet, repeated school closures risk long-term damage to learning outcomes.

Digital divide limits online learning

In much of Balochistan, online learning is not a practical solution. Internet access remains slow and expensive. Many families cannot afford smartphones or computers. Even where connectivity exists, frequent power outages and weak networks disrupt virtual classes.

For students, each closure means lost lessons and reduced opportunities. The gap in learning continues to widen, especially for those already facing disadvantages.

Rising pressure on students and parents

Parents are increasingly worried as their children fall behind. Motivation is declining, while anxiety continues to rise. Exams remain scheduled, despite the disruption. Many students now face the risk of taking tests without adequate preparation.

This situation places an unfair burden on families who have little control over the circumstances.

Need for a clear and balanced approach

The government faces a complex challenge. A fuel crisis requires careful management, and solutions are not simple. However, education must remain a priority. School closures should be a last resort, not a recurring response.

Authorities should present a clear plan with a defined timeline for reopening institutions. If closures must continue, alternative solutions are essential. These may include community learning centres, subsidised internet access, or flexible education models suited to local conditions.

Students deserve clarity and continuity

Students and families are not asking for special treatment. They seek clarity, fairness, and continuity in education. While many are prepared to wait until April 1, any extension to April 15 requires clear communication and reassurance.

The children of Balochistan and Pakistan deserve uninterrupted learning. Their future depends on the decisions made today. The nation cannot afford to let their education fall behind.

$10m project launched in AJK to bring out-of-school children into classrooms

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$10m project launched in AJK to bring out-of-school children into classrooms

ISLAMABAD, March 29 (Wealth Pakistan): A $10 million project has been launched in Azad Jammu and Kashmir to bring out-of-school children into classrooms and expand access to education.

The initiative, titled Out of School Children Project, is supported by the Islamic Development Bank and was signed on January 19, 2026, according to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan.

The project will be implemented by the Elementary and Secondary Education Department of the Government of AJK. It is expected to become operational soon.

Focus on enrollment and access

The initiative aims to identify out-of-school children and connect them with formal learning opportunities. It will support this process through improved school facilities, community outreach, and targeted enrollment campaigns.

In addition, the project seeks to strengthen institutional capacity. This will help schools enroll and retain students more effectively.

Early-stage development

According to official documents, the project is currently in the preparatory phase. Financial and physical progress will begin once implementation starts.

Expected impact

Once operational, the project is expected to improve literacy levels across the region. It will also support broader educational development goals in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Experts believe such targeted initiatives can expand access to education and promote inclusive learning environments.

The project is also expected to benefit children in remote and underserved areas by improving access and providing better learning opportunities.

Rs1.28bn project planned to boost livestock, arid agriculture in Thar

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Rs1.28bn project planned to boost livestock, arid agriculture in Thar

ISLAMABAD, March 29 (Wealth Pakistan): A Rs1.28 billion project has been proposed to strengthen livestock, horticulture, and ecosystem management in the Thar desert region. The plan focuses on research, technology transfer, and community capacity building.

The project, titled Thar Community Actions for the Management of Sustainable Ecosystem, Livestock, Land and Livelihood (THAR CAMELL), is outlined in official documents available with Wealth Pakistan.

The five-year initiative will run from July 2026 to June 2031. The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) will implement it through the PARC-Arid Zone Research Institute in Umerkot. The project will cover Umerkot district and 30 union councils of Tharparkar in Sindh.

Focus on livestock and agriculture

The project aims to promote agricultural innovation and improve livestock genetics. It will also strengthen disease control systems and support sustainable natural resource management.

In addition, the initiative will transfer modern technologies to farming communities. These include diagnostics, genotyping, and Radio Frequency Identification systems under the E-Pakistan framework.

The project also plans to boost value addition for exports. It includes setting up a dehydration plant and promoting dried vegetables and ber exports.

Support for local communities

The initiative will target poor Thari communities to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods. It will train more than 2,000 farmers to enhance skills and productivity.

Moreover, the project will build local capacity for sustainable ecosystem management. This approach aims to create long-term economic benefits in the region.

Environmental and research interventions

Environmental measures include afforestation, arid horticulture, and rainwater recharge through TARAI. These steps will help improve climate resilience in desert ecosystems.

The project will also establish livestock and horticulture research facilities at PARC-AZRI Umerkot. These centres will focus on improving productivity, strengthening disease diagnostics, and promoting indigenous breeds.

In addition, demonstration sites will be developed to support arid horticulture practices.

Infrastructure and productivity gains

According to the document, the project will convert 180 acres of wasteland into productive land. It will also develop infrastructure for research and demonstration activities.

Research will cover livestock, rangeland, water management, and arid horticulture. The project will provide machinery and field equipment to support these activities.

Furthermore, it will promote silage making and set up facilities for soil, water, and plant analysis. It will also establish livestock service units, insemination centres, and biotechnology labs.

These services will support researchers, extension workers, NGOs, and local farmers. They are expected to improve fertilizer use and increase crop productivity by 30–35%.

Alignment with national priorities

The project aligns with key national and international frameworks. These include the 5Es Framework, the 13th Five-Year Plan, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the National Agriculture Innovation and Growth Programme.

Pakistan must act now to tackle anaemia through food fortification: Dr Shabina

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Pakistan must act now to tackle anaemia through food fortification: Dr Shabina

ISLAMABAD, Mar 28 (ABC): Pakistan must take urgent action to address anaemia through food fortification, as the condition continues to affect nearly half of women, adolescent girls and children, posing risks to public health and economic growth, said Dr Shabina Raza, Country Director of Nutrition International.

Anaemia remains a major health challenge in the country. It also affects education, productivity and long-term development.

According to the Pakistan National Nutrition Survey (2018), 42.7% of women of reproductive age suffer from anaemia. The survey also shows that 52% of children under five are affected. The burden is higher in rural areas due to limited dietary diversity and low access to fortified foods. More than 900,000 pregnant women experience anaemia every year, increasing the risk of complications and low birth weight.

The economic cost is significant. Estimates show that Pakistan loses nearly $3 billion annually due to anaemia. This includes $2.5 billion linked to children and $595 million related to women and adolescent girls. These losses reflect reduced productivity, weaker learning outcomes and higher healthcare spending.

Dr Shabina Raza said anaemia is both a public health and economic emergency. She noted that it leads to poor cognitive development and lower productivity.

She emphasised that fortifying staple foods such as wheat flour can help reduce anaemia. She added that this approach is cost-effective and delivers strong results. According to her, tackling anaemia among women, adolescent girls and children remains a top priority.

Research supports this approach. Fortifying wheat flour, edible oil and salt with iron and folic acid is considered one of the most effective solutions.

Provincial data shows a similar trend. The Punjab Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (2018) found that 42% of women and 52% of children under five are anaemic. Evidence also shows that fortifying a 20-kg bag of wheat flour costs about Rs20. This is less than 1% of its retail price.

Analyses suggest that every dollar invested in food fortification can generate up to $27 in economic returns. These gains come through improved health, higher productivity and better cognitive performance.

Policy gaps still exist. Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have introduced mandatory fortification laws. However, Punjab has not enacted such legislation despite having nearly 60% of the population. Experts say that large-scale fortification in Punjab could significantly reduce anaemia nationwide.

At the Nutrition for Growth Summit 2025, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to adopt and enforce food fortification laws by 2030. These efforts align with global nutrition targets and Sustainable Development Goals.

Experts warn that delays will increase health and economic losses. Malnutrition continues to affect productivity, healthcare costs and education outcomes.

They stress that food fortification offers a low-cost and high-impact solution. Timely action, especially in Punjab, can improve health outcomes and strengthen the economy.

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