The livestock sector not only sustains the livelihoods of millions of rural families but also plays a pivotal role in ensuring food security, economic growth, and poverty alleviation in Pakistan. By investing in the development of this sector, the government is not only strengthening the foundation of the rural economy but also fostering sustainable development and resilience in the face of economic challenges. As we look ahead, harnessing the full potential of the livestock sector will be crucial for driving inclusive growth, fostering agricultural innovation, and enhancing the competitiveness of Pakistan’s economy on the global stage. Through continued investments, strategic interventions, and collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors, Pakistan can unlock new opportunities for prosperity and sustainable development across the livestock value chain.
Increase in the population of donkeys and other livestock animals in Pakistan is a testament to the sector’s resilience, productivity, and potential for driving economic growth. By prioritizing the development of the livestock sector, Pakistan can pave the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for its rural communities and the nation as a whole. One of the key strengths of the livestock sector lies in its potential to generate foreign exchange earnings, contributing approximately 1.6% to the total exports of the country. This highlights the sector’s significance not only in terms of domestic economic growth but also in enhancing Pakistan’s position in the global market. The government’s recognition of the importance of the livestock sector is evident in its strategic focus on promoting private sector-led development while providing a conducive policy environment. Regulatory measures aimed at improving animal productivity through enhanced veterinary health coverage, advanced breeding practices, artificial insemination services, and disease control initiatives have been instrumental in boosting the sector’s performance.
The growth in the cattle population to 57.5 million, buffalo to 46.3 million, sheep to 32.7 million, and goats to 87 million further underscores the significant contribution of the livestock sector to Pakistan’s economy. Livestock not only accounts for a substantial portion of the agricultural value added but also plays a vital role in the country’s GDP, constituting 14.63% of the national output. Moreover, the livestock sector has exhibited a steady growth rate of 3.89% in 2023-24, up from 3.70% in the previous year, indicating its resilience and stability amidst economic challenges. The sector’s gross value addition has also shown a positive trajectory, increasing to Rs 5,804 billion in 2023-24, reflecting a growth rate of 3.9%. The recent Pakistan Economic Survey for the fiscal year 2023-24 has shed light on the significant increase in the population of donkeys, along with other livestock such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats. This surge in the population of livestock animals not only reflects the vibrancy of the country’s rural economy but also highlights the critical role that animal husbandry plays in Pakistan’s overall economic landscape.
The rise in the population of donkeys to 5.9 million indicates a consistent upward trend over the years, showcasing the resilience and productivity of these “beasts of burden.” This increase from 5.5 million in 2019-20 to 5.9 million in 2023-24 signifies the importance of livestock in the agricultural sector, where over 8 million rural families are engaged in livestock production.
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