The food crisis in Pakistan has escalated to a critical level, with the country ranking 102 out of 125 nations in the Global Hunger Index. While Pakistan is currently food-sufficient, it is not food secure, as inflation and poverty rates have soared, leaving people desperate for basic necessities like flour. In response to the crisis, the Pakistani army has taken center stage in addressing food insecurity and stabilizing the economy…
To combat the food crisis and restore its public image, which was damaged by attacks from ousted PM Imran Khan, the army has become actively involved in stabilizing the struggling economy. The army’s chief, General Asim Munir, has been appointed as a member of the Special Investment Facilitation Council, which aims to implement essential reforms within the economy. In addition to economic reforms, the army has also been allocated hundreds of thousands of acres of barren land for cultivation, with agreements signed to lease land in Punjab and South Waziristan provinces…
While the choice of land in South Waziristan has raised concerns due to its challenging terrain and security risks, the army plans to enhance agricultural productivity and promote food self-sufficiency in the region. However, critics argue that this transfer of land could make the military the largest landowner in Pakistan, diverting its attention from its primary role of protecting against external threats. Transparency regarding the operationalization of these farms is also lacking, with confusion over profit distribution…
Despite these concerns, supporters of the plan believe that it will lead to better crop yields, water conservation, and address Pakistan’s depleting foreign exchange reserves and rising commodity prices. However, there are concerns that the army’s involvement in agriculture may further marginalize the rural landless poor. This foray into agriculture marks a significant shift in the army’s role and responsibilities, as it tackles the pressing food crisis in Pakistan. Only time will tell if this intervention will result in long-term food security or exacerbate existing inequalities.
