Minister Ahad Cheema directs officials to assess the technology’s economic viability, export potential and cost-sharing model with provinces and farmers.
The government is exploring the use of mechanical rice planters to improve crop yields and reduce production costs, with Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Cheema directing officials to prepare a comprehensive feasibility study.
Officials told a meeting chaired by Cheema that the use of rice planters could increase Pakistan’s rice yield by up to 15% while lowering production costs per kilogram.
The meeting examined the potential for introducing the technology in major rice-producing areas, particularly Punjab and Sindh, as part of efforts to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen the competitiveness of Pakistan’s rice sector.
Feasibility Study to Assess Economic Viability
Cheema directed the Secretary Food to prepare the feasibility study in consultation with the provincial governments.
The assessment will examine the economic viability of introducing rice planters, their potential to improve cost-effectiveness and their likely impact on the country’s rice exports.
The minister said that if the study establishes a viable case, the federal government would invest in the initiative in partnership with provincial governments.
He also directed officials to develop a cost-sharing model involving the federal government, provincial governments and farmers.
Planters to Be Distributed Across Rice-Growing Areas
The Secretary Food was asked to consult provincial authorities on identifying suitable farmers and ensuring that the machinery is distributed equitably across relevant rice-growing regions.
Cheema also called for consultations with the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), Engineering Development Board (EDB), provincial stakeholders and private companies already using rice planters.
The involvement of exporters and private-sector users is expected to help assess the practical benefits and challenges associated with adopting the technology at scale.
Focus on Training and Technology Transfer
Cheema stressed that introducing machinery alone would not be sufficient and that farmers would need the technical expertise required to operate and maintain the equipment.
He therefore called for a technology-transfer programme covering farmer training, after-sales services and technical support.
The initiative is aimed at improving the efficiency of rice cultivation while potentially lowering production costs and supporting export competitiveness.
Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Food Ahmad Umair, Secretary Food Amer Ali Ahmad, Secretary Industries and senior officials also attended the meeting.