ISLAMABAD, April 13 : The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has spent Rs127.533 million during the current fiscal year under an Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded food security support project aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture and strengthening institutional capacity in flood-affected districts.
According to official documents, the initiative is being implemented by the Agriculture Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and is scheduled for completion on June 30, 2028. The project carries a total financial commitment of US$79 million, of which US$15.10 million (19%) has already been disbursed.
The project has recorded a cumulative expenditure of Rs948.268 million, while the allocation for the fiscal year 2025–26 stands at Rs6.802 billion, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural resilience and food security in the province.
Promotion of climate-smart agriculture
Under the programme, climate-smart and resilient agricultural practices are being promoted through the provision of fertilizers and certified seeds, including wheat and rice, as well as diammonium phosphate (DAP), on a 50 percent cost-sharing basis. Farmers are also receiving training on the safe and efficient use of fertilizers and climate-adaptive seed varieties to improve productivity and sustainability.
Empowering women farmers
A significant component of the project focuses on empowering women in agriculture. The programme includes the distribution of vegetable packages and training in kitchen gardening, food processing, and preservation. Approximately 53,000 female farmers are expected to benefit from these initiatives, contributing to improved household food security and income generation.
Strengthening institutional capacity
The project also aims to enhance institutional capacity and disaster preparedness. Key initiatives include the development of a unified digital database of farmers in non-project districts and the establishment of an e-subsidy system to ensure transparency and efficiency in the distribution of agricultural support.
Support for seed industry and pest surveillance
Additional components include strengthening the province’s seed industry through the establishment of a speed breeding facility, which will accelerate the development of improved crop varieties. An ICT-based pest surveillance system is also being introduced to enhance plant protection and enable timely responses to pest outbreaks. The project further provides support for management and operational activities to ensure effective implementation.
Enhancing resilience and rural livelihoods
Officials believe that the initiative will significantly enhance food security, improve farmers’ productivity, and strengthen resilience against climate-induced shocks in flood-affected districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and institutional development, the project is expected to contribute to long-term rural economic growth and improved livelihoods.
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