Balochistan has taken a groundbreaking step in sustainable agriculture by approving the Balochistan Organic Agriculture Policy 2024, marking a key shift toward environmentally friendly farming practices.
The policy, announced in Quetta, focuses on promoting biodiversity, reducing dependence on imported organic cotton, and strengthening the resilience of local farmers in the face of climate change.
Developed with the assistance of WWF-Pakistan, the new policy covers an expansive 95,000 acres across the province and includes over 12,000 farmers. Currently, 67,067 acres are certified for organic cotton production in districts like Barkhan, Lasbela, Kohlu, and Khuzdar, which positions Balochistan as a leader in Pakistan’s sustainable cotton industry.
Muhammad Jahangir Kakar, Special Secretary for Agriculture, explained that the policy is designed to transition the province’s agricultural model towards economic and ecological sustainability.
Highlighting Pakistan’s first certified organic cotton bale produced in 2016 as a milestone, Kakar emphasized the support of the Laudes Foundation in funding initiatives that paved the way for today’s policy approval.
Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General of WWF-Pakistan, praised the policy as a milestone in sustainable agriculture that not only conserves local biodiversity but also empowers Balochistan’s farming communities. He noted that the move is expected to boost Balochistan’s global organic cotton market access and reduce Pakistan’s reliance on imported organic materials.
Several major Pakistani industries, including Artistic Milliners, Soorty Textile, Artistic Fabric Mills, Sapphire, and Gul Ahmed, are backing the policy, which has received certifications from Control Union under USDA and EU standards.
With its rich natural resources, Balochistan is poised to become a model for sustainable agriculture in Pakistan and beyond, aligning with global environmental goals.