The federal cabinet committee on agricultural and environmental emergency met for the first time under the chairmanship of Professor Ahsan Iqbal to accelerate relief for flood-affected farmers and design long-term reforms to strengthen national food security. The committee was constituted on the directions of the Prime Minister to address immediate needs and steer the agricultural sector toward climate-resilient growth.
The committee directed that canola seed be supplied to farmers within fifteen days so they can take advantage of residual soil moisture left by the floods. Officials emphasised promoting canola cultivation as a higher-return alternative to some traditional crops, noting stronger market demand and quicker recovery potential for affected land when canola is sown promptly.
To shield cultivators from future climate shocks, the committee recommended expanding interest-free loan schemes for farmers and urged the development of private agricultural insurance frameworks. These measures aim to provide immediate financial relief while building longer-term economic resilience for rural households and smallholders.
In consultation with provincial governments, the committee ordered the formation of three specialised task forces to prepare reports within fifteen days covering immediate agricultural aid and seed distribution, climate change impacts with resilient strategies, and the design of climate-resilient infrastructure. The task force findings will be submitted to the Prime Minister for final approval and rapid implementation.
Professor Ahsan Iqbal emphasised that climate change is no longer a temporary problem but a permanent reality, adding that floods, droughts and other environmental challenges require a long-term policy framework focused on food security, resilience and sustainable development. He called for cohesive federal-provincial action and collaboration with development partners to translate policy into on-ground support for farmers.
The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives said it will work closely with provincial administrations and development partners to implement a sustainable, inclusive and climate-resilient agricultural agenda that safeguards livelihoods and strengthens Pakistan’s food systems in the face of mounting environmental threats.
