Low water efficiency: scientists warn of food insecurity

Agri scientists warned that low irrigated water efficiency in Pakistan can push the country on the verge of food insecurity if tangible steps were not taken. They were addressing the inaugural session of training programme about demonstration and dissemination of irrigation techniques arranged by Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad in collaboration with USDA at New Senate Hall.
The session was presided over by UAF Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan while eminent scientist Dr Kausar Abdullah was guest of honour on the occasion. Professor Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan stressed the need to aware the masses about the latest and scientific water techniques by weaning the traditional ways of farming.
He said that the High Water Efficient System should be adopted in the country to cope with the water crisis. The irrigated area, which is about 80 per cent of total cultivated area, produces 90 per cent of Pakistan's food and fibre requirements, he added. He said that the university in collaboration with USDA was actively involved in various project to uplift the agriculture sector by focusing on food security, water management and trade corridor under trilateral activities among Pakistan, Afghanistan and United States.
Dr Kausar Abdullah Malik lauded the steps being taken on the part of UAF as it was being recognised at the international level by winning Islamic Development Bank Science and Technology Award among the 56 countries.