ORGANIC AGRICULTURE IN PAKISTAN

Introduction

Organic farming consists of natural agricultural techniques without using chemical inputs and without
causing harm to the nature for achieving maximum production. The natural methods of agriculture
constitute crop residues, green manures, compost, natural pesticides and cultivation of leguminous crops.
Organic farming is connected with the thousands years old history of cultivation when ancient man came
out of the caves in groups and was struggling to reside in the jungles. From here started the methods of
cultivation and Human development gradually increased in novel way. There came a concept of equilibrium
between nature and farming which gave birth to the modern philosophy of organic agriculture. The meaning
of modern organic farming is not turning towards old methods of cultivation but it is to provide a
sustainable structure of earth and living things by using useful methods of ancient agriculture, so that
human beings and all other organisms may live in a healthy atmosphere.

Ancient cultivation in sub-continent and other countries

The history of cultivation in subcontinent dates back to more than ten thousand years. In that era Egypt,
Southern China, Africa and Central America were the agricultural areas. In Egypt and sub-continent in
7000 BC, wheat and barley were cultivated. In Egypt in 6000 BC at the banks of Nile River, middle level
agriculture was started. In that era paddy was cultivated in the Far East countries. In china and Indonesia,
beans and pulses were cultivated and on the banks of lakes nets were used for fishing and hunting other
aquatic life. So, human development started on the banks of rivers and lakes. Before 5000 BC, methods of
cultivation were revolutioned and combine cultivation of crops started with judicious use of irrigation
water. The wooden tools show the progress in farming techniques just after the Stone Age. The ancient
carved figures show that how those people were adept in tilling, seed preservation and other methods of
cultivation. Jungles were cleared; pieces of land were leveled along with techniques of making compost by
using animal dung and rotten leaves. Wild animals were tamed and used for agriculture and other activities,
so regular farming practices began.

The great Moghal emperor Akbar planted mango gardens at 10000 hectares of area in subcontinent.
The book Nuskha dar e fanne falahat written by Prince Dara Shikoh during the reign of Shah Jahan is a very
interesting book regarding ancient agriculture. During the British rule, laws were promulgated to deposit the
agricultural waste and animal dung in the pits outside the villages to protect environment and to be used as
fine fertilizer for their crops. In Pakistan the world renowned canal system dates back to this era.

Organic Farming in present times

It seems that the movement for organic farming started as a reaction against the overwhelming modern
industrial agriculture and its huge bulk and harmful impact. In the beginning of twelfth century in Sub-
continent and Central Europe, organic farming progressed. English botanist Sir Albert Howard, who is
rightly called the father of modern organic farming, studied traditional farming systems in Bengal.
During 1924 in Germany, farms of organic agriculture were set up. In 1972, International Federation for
Organic Farming (IFOAM) was setup in Warselz, in which efforts were made to convey the organic
farming practices in the native languages of the respective states. In 1980 international organic farming
associations started formulation of legal laws about organic farming.
In 2002, U.S Department of Agriculture setup rules and regulations regarding production
of organic farming. Fast growing organic farming has been started in 141 countries of the world.
Nearly 1.2 million farmers are adopting organic farming techniques at 32.3 million hectares of land whereas
4 million hectares are declared as certified organic farms. Most prominent regions such as Europe,
Latin America, Australia, Argentine and Brazil have big organic farming areas where systematic agriculture
is progressing. India, Uganda and Africa are the countries producing much organic products. Developing
Countries like Argentine, Brazil, China, India and yuragoay are prominent having 11 million hectares of
area in organic farming . In Asia, total organically cultivated land is more than 2.9 million hectares which
consists 9% of world cultivated land. Big organically cultivated Asian countries include China (2.28 million
hectares) and India (2 million hectares). The famous organic products cities are Kualalum Pur, Manila,
Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai, Jakarta, Delhi and Bangalore.
Demand of organic products is increasing in all over the world. Since 1990, in developing countries, interest
of household consumers have been increasing by 20 % annually and the worldwide sale of organic products
was more than 5 billion dollars during 2007. In Europe and North America 97% of the world organic products
are sold, which include fruits, vegetables, cereals, drinks, seeds, herbs and spices.
Certified rules and regulations regarding cultivation of organic agriculture are prevalent in 71 countries of
the world and other 21 countries are framing rules and regulations. Now a day, 481 international
organizations are providing the services of organic farming rules. The European Union, America, Japan,
South Korea, China, Canada and Brazil are prominent among them. During October 2008 in Geneva, two
guiding rules were formulated in which equivalence of organic standards and demand of setting up of more
organic associations were prominent.
Having 1.6 % annual growth rate, the population of Pakistan is more than 160 million which is the sixth
most populated country of the world. Being an agricultural country, unfortunately more than 20 % of its
population is living below poverty line. Day to day natural havocs, earth quakes, floods and poor law and
order situation have shaken its economy. It is the need of the day to rid the farmers from costly chemical
inputs .They should be continuously trained in the art of organic farming so that not only health care be
ensured but also environment be protected and farmers may lead a prosperous life.
Now a days in Pakistan, organic farming is being done at about 150000 acres of land which was 35000
acres during 2005-06. Annual organic exports of Pakistan like fruits, vegetables and crops are about 100
million dollars but in India, the exports are more than 1 billion dollars annually. Last year India exported
135 different kinds of organic products weighing 44476 tons with sale price of 125 million dollars. India is
at top position in exporting the herbs in the world. Unfortunately Pakistan, inspite of having the best
agricultural land, irrigation system and the best seasons, is victim to internal and external unrest. It is due to
this that the policies lack sustainability and are ambiguous. The working class of Pakistan is capable of
bringing the country on highway to progress and prosperity. If better agricultural policies are adopted, the
northern areas, Kashmir and pothowar regions can make accelerated progress in the field of organic farming
and the areas relating to vegetables, fruits, flowers and herbs can attain a very high level of progress.
Pakistan is facing hardships in international market after the implementation of WTO (world trade
organization). Condition is so worst that Pakistan can only sell its products to Middle East, Sri lanka and
Central Russian states. International firms are independently selling their harmful and expensive pesticides,
fertilizers and GM seeds which have left bad effects on environment and human health. It is the need of the
day to change the prevailing agricultural policies in favour of farming community along with strong citadel
of agricultural training system so that the farmers are motivated towards organic farming practices.
Dr.Zafar Altaf, renown economist and Chairman Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) felt the
future needs in the field of organic farming and established a National Institute of Organic Agriculture
(NIOA) at NARC, Islambad which is performing very valuable services in the field of organic agriculture.
This institution is working on bio-fertilizer, bio-pesticides and herbicides, raising of organic crops, seasonal
and off-season vegetable, mushrooms and propagation of hybrid seeds. This institution is also imparting
trainings to researchers, extension workers, farmers, NGO,s, students and other stakeholders.
Interested groups visit the organic farms oftenally where they watch on-farm activities and the scientists of
the institute visit to the organic farms located in the various areas of Pakistan. More over, this institute is
working for the welfare of the communities affected by the natural catastrophe. In the recent floods, under
the guidance of the Chairman PARC, institute is distributing free seeds and other material along with
agricultural trainings to the flood affected people .Various organic products are sold at reasonable prices to
the people living in the neighbouring areas of NARC which bring awareness within the communities about
the impotance of the organic farming.
Organic farming can only succeed if whole agricultural system is converted towards organic farming. In the
beginning, modern agricultural trainings should be imparted to the agricultural workers, small land owners,
farm-home women and students. Agricultural exhibitions, functions and training programs should be started
in the remote rural areas. The livestock and poultry industry be improved along with boosting up of industry
of bio gas, compost and other useful products.
Moreover, with better planning Pakistan can attain a better position in organic farming. After 2016 in the
adjoining areas of Akhori, Bhasha- Diamir, Karam Tangi and Manda dams organic farming can be started
and thousands of people can earn their livelihood.

Organic Farming in Future

In the decade of sixties in Pakistan, due to green revolution, the use of chemical fertilizers, seeds and
insecticides began. Faulty system of education, poverty, social unrest, negligence in agricultural research,
small land holdings, political tug of war, natural catastrophe and useless agricultural policies are the reasons
due to which agricultural system is stagnant. Further more, uncontrolled increase in population is a great
hurdle which curtails the economic progress of the country. In future, to compete with the modern nations
of the world best policies will have to be implemented strictly. The future of organic farming is very bright.
Human beings require pure food to lead a healthy life. It is a proven fact that only the organic farming can
provide the best food to the world. It is close to nature and man can feel the importance of organic farming
through his instincts. He can sustain his being without the external help of others in the field of seeds and
fertilizers. He can not only save the crops from diseases and pests but also can maintain the fertility of the
soil skillfully. By progressing in the industry of domestic animals, farming community can keep human
friendly environment. By strengthening the system of sustainable agriculture, farmers can provide healthy
environment. Organic farming is the future of human food because now a day the demand of organic food is
increasing rapidly and in future it will be necessary to get rid of the chemical inputs. The industry of
biological control, EM, Humic acid, micro- nutrients, compost and natural insecticides should have to be
widely spread. Agriculturists claim that in the next decade of the century the number of consumers using
organic products will be doubled. A large number of farmers will turn towards organic farming due to
marked saving per acre.
Now a day, the organic farming associations of Europe are devising guiding rules and regulations so that
organic foods are supplied to consumers at standards set by the international laws. All the organic food
producers should be strictly motivated to act upon the prescribed rules and regulations of organic
agriculture. Further more, the prevalent laws are being modified and reformed.
The reservations of farmers about the organic certification and marketing difficulties are brought forward to
be discussed with the government authorities so that a solid base is established for the better future of
organic farming. Trainings are being imparted related to organic farming in conferences, meetings and trade
shows.

Important Points Relating Organic Food Certification

1- Organic foods should be free from all chemicals.

2- It should be free from genetic modifications.
3- Organic food should be free from gamma radiation.
4- It should be free from bad effects of polluted water.
5- The soil from where organic food is produced should be free from chemical inputs for at least three
years.
6- The record of organic food production must be kept.
7- Organic food should be kept away from inorganic materials.
8- There should be a complete checking system of organic food storage.

After 2025, organic agriculture will progress but increase in progress will be 20 % slower as compared to
the present times. Every consumer of the world will use at least one product, may be food product or any
other, such as cloth. Everywhere organic products will be available. In organic food restaurants, mineral
water will be served. There will be much stress and pressure on the governments to cultivate organic crops.
In future, government institutions will have to do much in this field. The farmers will be facilitated so that
the fertility of the soil may be maintained. In future, decreasing level of phosphorus in the soils and
availability of the rock phosphate will be big problem .The phosphorus fertilizers will be so expensive that
it will be out of reach of the farming community. So, the alternate methods like natural availability of
phosphorus ,compost and cultivation of Pigeon pea ( cayanus cangun) and beans will have to be adopted in
the fields. To meet the level of macro and micro-nutrients in the soils, we will have to use the kitchen
garbage, animal dung, weeds and grasses which are the cheapest source of the fertilizers.
We have already lost 20 % fertility of the land due to changes in seasons, diminishing species of animals
and plants, natural changes and human made changes. So organic farming is inevitable for human
development.
Pakistan can progress due to its distinct social and agricultural setup which is based on hard work and being
in the lap of Mother Nature having the ancient agricultural history of 10000 years. The combination of
modern and conventional farming can bring revolution in our society which is already famous for
conventional way of agriculture. Pakistan is very rich having old and modern cultures, traditions and
different soil types from the uplands of Himalayas to the depths of Arabian Sea. We have already 35 %
natural farming practices from the ancient times in the areas of Northern regions, Khyber Pakhtoonkhuwa
and Kashmir with rich soils and enchanting climatic conditions which is a heavenly gift from God. In
these areas, mostly the crops, fruits and vegetables are naturally saved from hazardous pests and diseases
due to the favourable weather conditions. In these areas the nature seems to be in full bloom with healthy
environment and natural atmosphere where organic farming can reach to its peaks being free from chemical
inputs.
The other areas of Pakistan are not far behind from the above mentioned bestowed lands on the part of
natural assets. From the ancient times, in the desert areas of Thar (Sind) and Cholistan (Punjab), mushrooms
and several other indigenous herbs are naturally grown which are saved in the mud pots and the people use
them as a diet. The use of chemical inputs has been very less in these regions and most of the areas have
been producing the traditionally grown cereals, fruits and vegetables.
The integrated agricultural system consisting of healthy animals and crops can be established on such
grounds in which all living things can live without bulldozing the natural laws.

The following steps are necessary for the promotion of organic farming in Pakistan.

1- Research institutions should be setup in all the four provinces of the country where research work can be
carried out keeping in mind the local environment and soil conditions.
2- The past experiences regarding ancient organic agriculture should be collected and published in huge
quantity and distributed among farming community.
3- Training institutions should be established in which farmers, students, agricultural workers and women
should be provided constant trainings.
4- In schools syllabi of organic farming should be included.
5- Grievances of all the stakeholders regarding organic agriculture should be removed .In this context,
meetings should be arranged with all the related persons and priorities of extension and research should be
set and further extended.
6- The processing plants should be established to manufacture the compost, natural pesticides, weedicides
and fungicides by using the local infrastructure .Controlling authority must be appointed to check the prices
along with material.
7- Permanent training schedule should be devised to train students and women in the art of organic farming
for the promotion of kitchen gardening industry.
8- Organic demonstration centers should be established for the awareness of organic agriculture within the
farming community.
9- In the cultivation of off- season vegetables, organic farming practices should be preferred.
10- The rules and regulations of organic farming should be formulated and experts be sent to abroad for
The trainings of organic certification system.
11- A separate public certification authority should be organized.
12- Countrywide surveys should be done for the collection of data related with organic farming.
13- The research centers should be established in Northern areas, Kashmir and Pothowar for the promotion
of indigenous plants and herbs.
14- Every year organic farming competitions should be organized and prominent farmers should be
awarded to promote the organic farming.

The Responsibilities and Activities of National Institute of Organic Agriculture (NIOA),NARC

Responsibilities:

1-Demonstration of growing field crops and vegetables without using any chemical fertilizers and pesticides
etc.

2-To Keep bio-fertilizer, bio-pesticide and bio-herbicide processing units operational at NARC and
outstations for preparation of organic products and their promotion.

3-Dissemination of organic farming technologies to the farming community across Pakistan and
demonstration organic soil fertility management.

4-Training of farmers for growing of crops by using organic farming techniques.

5-Further research to enhance organic matter in nutrient depleted soils of Pakistan.

6-Participation in national / international workshops, symposiums and events etc. on the subject related to
organic farming.

7-Establishment of research laboratory/facilities and devise organic standards/certification for

imports/export of organic products (bio-pesticides, organic nutrients)

Activities:

1-Cultivation of organic wheat (2008-09)

The wheat in arid lands of Pakistan is grown at about 3.1 million acres having total production of 1.9
million tones with 15.3 monds per acre average yield which is very less as compared to other developing
countries. Govt.of Pakistan has taken some positive steps for the promotion of wheat crop which has
resulted 16 % more increase in the area cultivated as compared to last year but due to expensive chemical
inputs, shortfall of certified wheat seed and non availability of irrigation water ,the per acre yield could not
increased. During 2008-09, the cultivation of organic wheat at 480 acres of land at NARC was encouraging
and the income of Rs.12.7 million was received as compared to Rs.3.8 million of total expenses. Bio-
fertilizer @ 5 bags per acre were broadcasted following sprays of micronutrients,E.M and Humic acid
which gave the boost to the wheat crop and the climatic conditions remained favourable. Strip cultivation of
lentil (Masoor) was done for soil fertility which showed encouraging results however some crop was
damaged due to continuous rains. It reveals that cultivation of legumes in the standing crops gives positive
results regarding soil fertility along with extra income. The control of weeds is very important in this
method of cultivation.
2-Cultivation of organic Sunflower (2009)

The sunflower crop is very suitable for arid lands. It can grown successfully in hot and dry weather as it
keeps deep rooted system which enable the crop to take moisture from the deep layers of the soil near about
9 to 10 feet. The sunflower seed is good source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B1(thiamin), Manganese,
Magnesium, Copper, Phosphorus and Vitamin B5. During Kharif 2009 ,two hybrids of sunflower were
sown at 217 acres of land. During land preparation before sowing ,5 bags of Bio-fertilizer and 4 kg Humic
acid per acre were broadcasted in the soil with tractor mounted spreader. The distance between rows and
plants was kept 75 cm and 30 cm respectively. The attack of jassid below ETL (0.4/leaf) was observed
.Reflecting tapes were installed above the crop near the trees to protect the plants from birds especially
parrots. 2 sprays of micronutrients were done which resulted in good crop stand. After 95 days, crop was
manually harvested and mechanical threshers were used for threshing. Seed was dried in the open fields up
to 8 % moisture and for this purpose mechanical dryer was also used. The yield was 7 monds per acre.

3-Cultivaion of organic vegetables in the tunnels and open fields

Being an important part of our daily life, Vegetables are the best security of the human health
.Carbohydrates, Salts, Protein and Vitamins are abundantly found in vegetables. Vegetables are cultivated
on 20 acres of land situated in the garden area where tunnel grown seedlings are shifted in the open fields
and effect of diseases, pests and climate is observed. Different experiments are done for the eradication of
weeds in the vegetable fields. Summer and winter vegetables are cultivated along with propagation of
hybrid seeds. There is a great importance of pest, diseases and weed control along with proper time of
sowing in the management of organic vegetables. During 2008, Institute was allotted poor pieces of land at
NARC in which Baro grass and weeds were growing abundantly along with heaps of stones. The soil was
very hard and had never been ploughed up since a long time. Now, the soil condition is very good after the
continuous efforts of 2 years as mulching and adding organic matter in the soil. The soil has become very
porous and the vegetables are being growing successfully. The organic vegetables are being marketed
through a local section PATCO (PARC Agro.Tech.Company) and a shop has been set up at the entrance of
NARC.

4-Cultivation of Mushrooms:
The mushrooms are grown at NIOA successfully in which varieties like Chinese, Button and Oyster are
prominent. Research is also going on at some other local and mountainous varieties. The main objective of
the cultivation of mushrooms is organic production, assessment and analysis of cost and profit along with
training to the stakeholders.

5- Bio-fertilizer plant:
Bio-fertilizer plant was installed during August, 2009 at NARC at the cost of Rs.0.750 million. The main
ingredients of the Bio-fertilizer are Compost, Poultry waste, Sugar cane press mud, Rock phosphorous,
Sulphar and Gypsum. The working capacity of the plant in a day is 2500 kg. The cost of 1 bag (50kg) of
fertilizer is Rs.250 which is quite reasonable. The same type of 2 other plants are working in Sanghar and
Benazir Abad (Sind).

6-Bio-pesticide plant:
Bio-pesticide plant was installed during July, 2009 at the cost of Rs. 0.500 million .The main ingredients of
Bio-pesticides are garlic, chilli, dharek, neem, aak and taramera oil.The working capacity of the plant in a
day is 2000 liter. The cost of 1 pack (1 liter ) is Rs.100 which is quite reasonable. At small scale it can be
prepared in an electric blender.
7-Bio-herbicide Plant:
Bio-herbicide plant was installed during December, 2009 at the cost of Rs. 0.900 million .The main
ingredients of Bio-herbicide are Muberry tree ,Chenopodium plant and extract of sorghum plant.The
working capacity of the plant in a day is 2000 liter.
8- Establishment of other Research Farms:
Some other research and demonstration farms have been established in the country where research work
regarding fruits, vegetables and crops is being done along with training of stakeholders. These farms are
situated at Satra meel (Islamabad), Boraiy wala (Punjab), Bhaira (Punjab) and Benazir abad (Sind).

9-Agricultural Extension Activities:

Scientists of the institute oftenally visit at the private farms in the far flung areas of the country where
interested farmers invite them for learning of organic farming practices. Trainings are imparted to the
farmers along with distribution of literature.

10-Publications:
Monthly and annual reports along with research and extension material are published. Leaflets and
brochures are published for distribution among the farming community.

11-Training Programs:
Lectures are delivered in the training programs organized at NARC, where scientists of the institute
participate to train the researchers, agricultural extension activists, farmers, workers of the NGO,s, women
and students.

Dr.Sher M. & A.S. Anjum

National Institute of Organic Agriculture

National Agricultural Research Centre
Park Road,Islaambad,Pakistan.