THE livestock sector, contributing 61.84 per cent to the agricultural gross domestic product (GDP) and 14pc to the national GDP, faces alarming challenges, especially since the monsoon rains earlier in the year that devastated the rural areas, spreading viral diseases, like rinderpest, among the livestock.

A recent visit to the veterinary hospital in Larkana exposed a shocking level of inefficiency. The hospital was virtually deserted until 11.30am. This is despite the fact that the staff strength is more than ideal. The deputy director arrived late around noon, and that, too, after I called him on his phone.

Staff members with their sleepy eyes offered flimsy excuses for the state of affairs. As I explored the matter further, a disturbing revelation emerged; medicines and vaccines are routinely sold to private stores for a profit, while the local farmers are sold the narrative of shortages and lack of funds. This blatant corruption and mismanagement is a serious threat to the national economy.

As per estimates, about nine million families in rural areas rely on livestock for 35-40pc of their income. Misma-nagement of resources — both human and financial — is putting at stake the future of this large segment of population.

The provincial government must strengthen institutional frameworks across the agricultural sector, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring effective management of resources. The higher authorities must intervene to investigate all corruption allegations, implement accountability measures, provide training to veterinary staff, and ensure timely availability of medicines and vaccines. The country’s economic future seriously depends on revitalising the critical livestock sector.

Tanveer Ayaz Morio
Larkana

Published in Dawn, November 9th, 2024