KARACHI: The Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP), with the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO), organized training sessions for cotton farmers and landowners in Bahawalnagar and Rahim Yar Khan. These sessions, conducted under the “RISE for Impact: FPRW in the Cotton Supply Chain Project,” aimed to teach small cotton-producing landlords and farmers innovative ways to improve cotton production in Punjab.
The purpose of these sessions was to introduce innovative methods to enhance cotton productivity and to provide practical farming techniques, resource-saving strategies, and modern tools to improve yields and support sustainable incomes for small-scale cotton farmers and landlords’ associations. Explaining the background of the initiative, Syed Nazar Ali, Secretary General of the Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP), emphasized the need to ensure better working conditions for small landlords and farmers while boosting cotton production. He highlighted that supporting cotton-growing communities contributes to responsible and more sustainable business practices.
Mr. Shazad and Mr. Mukhtar conducted the sessions and informed participants about the importance of the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW) and their role in improving working conditions in agriculture. Participants learned that farmers play a key role in ensuring safe, fair, and dignified work environments for all workers. This includes the provision of fair wages, reasonable working hours, and the safe handling of tools and chemicals. The discussion also underlined the need for clear communication between landowners and workers, as well as access to training and protective equipment when necessary. The sessions emphasized that by adhering to FPRW principles, farmers and landlords can improve both productivity and worker well-being, fostering a more sustainable and ethical farming sector. Participants were encouraged to actively promote these practices within their communities.
Mr. Gillani, Consultant, highlighted the urgent need to increase cotton productivity and reduce production costs to strengthen economic stability and drive sustainable improvements in Pakistan’s cotton supply chain. He outlined key factors influencing cotton cultivation, including climate suitability, soil requirements, proper site selection, land preparation, choice of cotton varieties, optimal sowing times and methods, seed rate and spacing, efficient irrigation and nutrient management, effective pest control, and best practices for harvesting, handling, and transportation.
During the Cotton Productivity Enhancement sessions, participants identified challenges in accessing quality seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, which hindered crop growth. The formation of associations was emphasized as a way to pool resources, reduce costs, and negotiate better prices. This collaboration also facilitates access to financing and shared machinery, thereby enhancing productivity and ensuring long-term sustainability.
