To commemorate the celebration of World Water Day, Nestlé Pakistan joined hands with Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC) to highlight water wastage issues faced in the country due to poor agriculture practices. The event marked the official inauguration of a project to find solutions to avoid water wastage in agricultural practices, focusing on finding innovative answers for efficient and effect water management.
The world over, about 70% of water is used in agriculture. In Pakistan, that percentage stands at 90%, with 50% wastage due to poor irrigation methods. This wastage of water needs to end by means of better practices to save generation from water scarcity. Under this partnership Nestlé Pakistan is enhancing PARC's technical capacity through installation of drip irrigation systems which is proven way to revive and increase crop production.
The delivery line network would cover around six (6) acre crop site. The site will model best practices by using innovative methods and environmental friendly technology, to boost and enhance crop production through minimum use of water. Furthermore, this project will serve as knowledge hub for farmers visiting the research center on drip irrigation can have a substantial impact on crop yield.
Whilst inaugurating the project, the Chief Guest Federal Secretary Minister of National Food Security & Research Fazal Abbas Maken said, "Water scarcity is a huge challenge we face today. However instead of focusing on the negatives, we should focus on the positive and utilize opportunities presented in addressing this challenge. This partnership between PARC and Nestle Pakistan is an excellent example of how two relevant organs (government and private sector) of state can come together and work on something which is beneficial for all."
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Yusuf Zafar, Chairperson PARC said: "Our partnership with Nestlé Pakistan is an excellent example of the role public-private partnerships can play important role in addressing the water challenge being faced by Pakistan. There is great inefficient water use in agriculture and are hopeful that this collaboration will serve as a knowledge sharing platform on moving towards sustainable agriculture.
By adopting innovative techniques such as drip irrigation systems, Furrow-bed, and sprinkler systems the precious and scarce water resource can be saved and used efficiently on farm. Through our collaboration we can showcase to farmers how they can achieve sustainable agricultural production and improve crop yield".
Waqar Ahmad, Head of Corporate Affairs, Nestlé Pakistan, said, "Water is a shared resource and the best way to protect it is by adopting a multi-stakeholder collaborative approach. Nestlé Pakistan's Water Plan is part of our commitment towards Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation reducing use of water chain for all. Pakistan being primarily an agriculture country, there is an even greater need to adopt water efficient practices. Our partnership with PARC is key in helping achieve this and in educating communities on how to use water efficiently particularly in agriculture".