News Desk: Balochistan is focusing on modern farming techniques, water conservation and improved agricultural productivity to address water shortages and strengthen food security, Planning and Development Minister Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi said on Thursday.
He stressed the need to reduce water wastage, protect rapidly declining groundwater reserves and introduce advanced agricultural technologies to help farmers increase production.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the first Balochistan Food Exhibition 2026 at the Balochistan Agriculture College on Baleli Road in Quetta, Buledi said efficient water management and the construction of water reservoirs were essential for agricultural development in the largely arid province.
He said several areas of Balochistan had considerable agricultural potential despite low rainfall, while ongoing development projects aimed to increase production and create better opportunities for farmers and landowners.
The minister also highlighted opportunities in livestock and fisheries, citing the province’s substantial livestock population and extensive coastline. He stressed the need to prevent illegal fishing and ensure the sustainable use of marine resources.
Buledi called for cooperation with international organisations and non-governmental organisations to equip farmers with modern techniques and raise awareness about the conservation of agricultural and water resources.
He also emphasised the importance of providing safe, pure and quality food, saying modern technology and agricultural development were key to improving food standards.
The two-day exhibition, running from October 15 to 16, has been organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) under the Balochistan River Basins Water Resources Programme (RBWRP).
FAO representative Waleed Mehdi said the event aimed to provide farmers, small agricultural businesses and entrepreneurs with opportunities to display their products, improve access to markets and develop business partnerships.
Buledi inaugurated the exhibition by cutting a ribbon and visited stalls showcasing agricultural products. Other speakers, including Asadi Batool and chief organiser Qadir Agha, also addressed the ceremony.
Representatives of government departments and agriculture-sector stakeholders attended the event, highlighting the potential of such exhibitions to promote local products, support small businesses and strengthen Balochistan’s agricultural economy.
