In the heart of South Punjab, a story of resilience and transformation is unfolding. This region, disaster-stricken and impoverished, is now witnessing a remarkable journey of five farmers towards sustainable agriculture.
Rizq’s story in Rajanpur begins with a noble aim: to uplift flood-affected small farmers. Providing interest-free agricultural inputs, machinery assistance, and solar tubewells, Rizq, supported by CDP, endeavored to restore economic stability to the farmers. This support proved pivotal in helping them reclaim their livelihoods and financial security.
Building upon this economic foundation, Rizq is now empowering smallholder farmers to pioneer regenerative farming. Understanding the necessity for sustainable practices, Rizq initiated the “Kashtakari Qudrat Ke Sath” program – a venture to establish five model regenerative farms in Rajanpur. These farms employ minimal tillage, agroforestry, and integrated pest management (IPM) within a cotton-wheat rotation, showcasing how regenerative practices can enhance both economic viability and environmental health.
At the heart of this transformation are five progressive farmers who have embraced these innovative practices: Abdul Salam, Nawaz Chanjan, Kashif Bosa, Allah Bachaya, and Abdul Khaliq. Starting their journey with Rizq through the Kisaan Dost program-a farmer uplift and market access initiative, these farmers have now transitioned from striving for economic stability to becoming leaders in sustainable agriculture. Their journey reflects the transformative power of capacity building and support for smallholder farmers, as they grow into community leaders, showcasing how adopting cost-effective methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve soil health, and increase water use efficiency can not only secure their livelihoods but also contribute to the broader goal of food security.
Rajanpur’s agricultural metamorphosis serves as a beacon of hope and a blueprint for the regions facing similar trials. It underscores the imperative of investing in smallholder farmers, who form the majority of Pakistan’s agricultural landscape but remain neglected and underserved. By working together with these farmers, learning from their experiences, and empowering them to make informed decisions, we can build a more resilient future for generations of Pakistani farmers to come.
