Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has started field operations for the 7th Digital Agricultural Census, an important step in gathering updated agricultural data. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal inaugurated the initiative in Islamabad by assigning enumerators to carry out the data collection process. Similar launch events were held in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Muzaffarabad, signaling the nationwide rollout of the census.
The census began on January 1, 2025, and will run until February 10, with 7,686 trained enumerators and supervisors involved in the effort. The data collected will provide critical insights into the agricultural sector, including information on resource management, crop patterns, and food security. The findings, expected to be released by August, aim to address challenges faced by farmers and improve productivity in the sector.
The census has brought together participants from federal and provincial government bodies, academic institutions, and private-sector experts. This collaboration reflects the shared focus on agriculture as a vital part of the economy and the need for accurate data to guide decisions.
In Lahore, Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman opened the census operations for the province, highlighting the role of data in supporting farmers and better resource distribution. In Karachi, Sindh’s Planning Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah and Livestock Minister Muhammad Ali Malkani launched operations for the region, emphasizing the importance of addressing local agricultural concerns. In Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agriculture Minister Sajjad Barakwal inaugurated operations for the province, while in Muzaffarabad, AJK Agriculture Minister Sardar Mir Akbar led the launch for his region.
The 7th Digital Agricultural Census uses advanced tools, including Geographic Information System (GIS) technology and other digital systems, to ensure accurate and efficient data collection. This technological approach enables real-time monitoring and analysis, improving the overall process and quality of the data.
The use of digital tools marks a shift in how agricultural data is gathered, allowing for better identification of issues, trend forecasting, and informed policy-making. The updated data is expected to play a key role in addressing challenges like food security, resource allocation, and climate-related risks, while also supporting farmers in adopting modern practices.
As the census continues, its results are expected to guide practical measures to improve agriculture across the country. By focusing on reliable data collection and analysis, the initiative aims to address gaps in the sector and provide a strong foundation for future planning.
