Host Country

Pakistan

Highlights

SPFS increased yield by 50–60%

Budget

US$7 540 174

Commencement Date

1998

Activities

• The SPFS in Pakistan initially focused on improving water management through the introduction of water user associations, federated into village organizations.
• Village organizations are leading the implementation of the Programme's main activities; sustainable crop production, diversification of crop production, management of revolving funds and farm service centres.
• Farmers are now involved in each step of the project and training is provided to build capacities in rural community organizations, including village-based business support services.
  Training has been conducted at a provincial level to strengthen capacities in agricultural extension.

Results

• Wheat yields increased by 50-60%
• Rice yields increased by 26-50% through improved package of technology.
• Benchmark data was established for crops.
• Creation of a revolving fund and establishment of farm services centres greatly alleviated constraints at the micro level.
• Through diversification, 7 poultry units were established as well as 3 nurseries of 40 000 plants.
• The success of the pilot phase SPFS encouraged the Government of Pakistan (through the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock) to allocate US$8.47 million (PKR500 million) for the expansion of the Programme through a national programme called the Crop Maximization Project (CMP). The SPFS in Pakistan has the potential to be expanded to national scale, particularly because of its financial and environmental sustainability (such as use of environmentally friendly technologies, including zero tillage) and the strong commitment of the Government.