GILGIT – A series of agricultural technology demonstrations in Gilgit Baltistan (GB) drew more than 1000 interested farmers, representatives of local support organizations (LSO) and members of the GB Agriculture Department. The majority of participants were women interested in entrepreneurial opportunities being introduced. Seven private sector agri-tech companies supported by USAID’s Pakistan Agricultural Technology Transfer Activity (PATTA) showcased innovative agricultural technology products and services suited to the GB landscape. The demonstrations were held in districts Gilgit, Nager, Hunza, and Ghizer.
Ghulam Murtaza, a farmer from Hunza, appreciated PATTA’s new rental model for agricultural technologies, and said, “There is a huge opportunity for small farmers in renting efficient agricultural tools to produce more on limited land through mechanization.” Participants also purchased tools and equipment being sold at discounted rates.
USAID PATTA also hosted a special session to increase awareness about entrepreneurial opportunities, dealership and business models for women, and shared information on available women-friendly agricultural technology rental models.
Bibi Parveen, President of a Karimabad LSO, attended the demonstration session in Hunza and stated, “I appreciate USAID’s efforts to create awareness of new agricultural practices in Hunza, especially women-friendly technologies. I have purchased equipment worth PKR 91,000 and intend to rent out this equipment to generate an income.”
“USAID PATTA is taking emerging trends and technological solutions to Gilgit-Baltistan to strengthen agricultural development in the region. Farmers can use their time effectively and improve farm yields through mechanization,” remarked PATTA Chief of Party Jean Francois Guay.
USAID PATTA is collaborating with the GB Agricultural Department to build provincial capacities so that current technologies are embraced widely as a result of similar field demonstrations. An agri-tech expo is also being planned in GB to help small farmers benefit from hi-tech mechanization in agriculture and move from subsistence to commercial farming. By 2021, PATTA aims to increase the access of 122,500 farmers across Pakistan to improved agricultural technologies to strengthen the agricultural sector.
