ISLAMABAD, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan's Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain said on Tuesday that the country has been taking special measures to modernize the agricultural sector for a strong economy.

Agricultural sector is the backbone of the national economy and the government has introduced several practical and sustainable measures to uplift the agricultural sector and strengthen the economy on solid foundations, the minister said during a meeting here.

In the recently announced federal budget, farmer-friendly policies have been adopted, he said, highlighting that the country is providing subsidies, interest-free loans, modern technology, certified seeds, fertilizers, agricultural machinery, and special packages for water management to boost productivity.

"Also, multiple reforms, including digital agriculture, climate-resilient technologies, agricultural research, and the development of a well-trained and modern workforce are being implemented," he added.

Hussain underlined that Pakistan viewed agriculture not merely as an economic sector, but as a pillar of national survival, food self-sufficiency, and environmental protection. ■