Climate-smart agricultural technologies imperative for food security: VC Zulfiqar

FAISALABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Jun, 2026) University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) Vice Chancellor (VC) Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali has said that balanced fertilizer management, healthy soil practices and climate-smart agricultural technologies are indispensable for ensuring food security, improving farmers' profitability and reducing agriculture's environmental footprint.

He was inaugurating the 3rd Biannual Progress Review and Planning Meeting of the USDA-ICARDA funded "Fertilize Right Pakistan" project held at Center for Advanced Studies at UAF.

He said that adoption of scientific nutrient management, precision agriculture and strong collaboration among research institutions would help Pakistan meet the challenges of climate change and resource degradation.

He said that the sustainable ecosystem was essential to address the agricultural challenges. He said that Lyallpur, and Lahore belts were once cotton belt. But after soil deterioration, it was replaced with other crops.

He said that soil health is the foundation of national food security and called for stronger collaboration among research institutions to develop and disseminate climate-resilient technologies.

He appreciated the USDA and ICARDA for supporting research that directly benefits farming communities.

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He said that demonstration plots for farmers will be established at the UAF Continuant colleges.

Prof. Emeritus Dr. Kauser Abdullah Malik said that balanced fertilizer application and healthy soils are the cornerstones of sustainable agricultural development. He urged scientists to accelerate the transfer of innovative technologies from laboratories to farmers' fields, adding that collaborative research would play a vital role in enhancing crop productivity while conserving natural resources.

Representatives from the USDA, including Mark Dries, Counsellor for Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Embassy said that FAS efforts are traditionally centered in Islamabad, the impact of the "Fertilize Right" project is national in scope.

Dr. Adeyemi Abiola, Fertilize Right Project Lead, USDA:FAS said that the initiative—has now been officially extended globally through September 30, 2028.

He said that all future strategic actions and field interventions across Pakistan will be dynamically calibrated to maximize the impact.

Dean Agriculture Dr Ghulam Murtaza called for improving the soil health and guide the farmer about the balance use of fertilizer.

Muhi Ei Dine Hilali, Food and Feed Processing Specialist also spoke on the occasion.