As an agriculture-based country, Pakistan relies heavily on its farming sector. Approximately 70% of the population is engaged in agriculture, especially in rural Sindh. Despite this reliance, farmers face several challenges, including low crop yields, limited access to quality inputs, and inadequate technical knowledge. A significant gap also exists in the sustainable management of natural resources, leading to the underutilization of their full potential.
The communities supported by the Sindh Rural Support Foundation (SRSF) primarily depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. This makes the sustainable and efficient use of natural resources-including land, water, soil, plants, and animals-critical for long-term economic resilience and food security.
Our Approach
SRSF’s Natural Resource Management (NRM) program promotes the responsible, sustainable use of natural resources to ensure they remain productive for future generations. The program works in close partnership with:
- Community Organizations (COs)
- Village Organizations (VOs)
- Local Support Organizations (LSOs)
- Government departments
- International development partners
Together, we support farmers in adopting modern, climate-smart, and ecologically sustainable practices across agriculture, livestock, poultry, and kitchen gardening.
Capacity Building and Training
SRSF’s NRM program strengthens community capacity through targeted training and support, including:
- Water resource management training and demonstrations
- Access to high-quality seeds, fruit plants, and forest species
- Promotion of livestock vaccination and disease control
- Improved farm management practices: soil management, crop rotation, sowing techniques
- Livestock healthcare through preventive and curative services
Special focus is placed on empowering women through inclusive training and income-generating activities that build household resilience.
Key Initiatives in Natural Resource Management
- Backyard Poultry Farming
Poultry farming is an important livelihood for rural households. Traditional practices often lead to low productivity. SRSF introduces improved practices, including:
- High-yield, disease-resistant poultry breeds (e.g., Fayoumi)
- Training on poultry shed construction, feeding, and disease management
- Year-round egg production and income generation
This initiative particularly targets women, transforming poultry farming into a sustainable cottage or small-scale commercial enterprise.
- Backyard Kitchen Gardening
Kitchen gardening enhances food security and household income. SRSF promotes seasonal vegetable cultivation (e.g., tomatoes, chilies, carrots, radishes) through:
- Distribution of seeds for Rabi and Kharif seasons
- Hands-on training and technical support
- Mobilization and engagement of women at the household level
Participants learn to grow nutritious food while generating additional income.
- Fruit Tree Plantation
To diversify income and promote sustainable agriculture, SRSF encourages fruit tree planting. CO members receive saplings of:
- Lemon
- Ber (jujube)
- Falsa
This initiative supports household nutrition, women’s participation, and environmental sustainability.
- Crop Production Support
Boosting crop yields is essential for food security and poverty reduction. SRSF supports farmers by:
- Providing access to high-quality seeds and improved crop varieties
- Promoting tunnel farming and other climate-resilient practices
- Offering guidance on soil fertility, crop selection, and modern techniques
These interventions help farmers adapt to environmental challenges while increasing productivity.
- Livestock Management
Livestock is a cornerstone of rural livelihoods. To improve milk and meat production, SRSF:
- Distributes crossbred dairy heifers on credit
- Requires recipients to pass on the first offspring to another farmer (pass-on model)
- Trains farmers in livestock care and feeding
This community-based approach boosts income and strengthens local livestock assets over time.
Impact and Vision
SRSF’s NRM initiatives are designed to build resilient, self-reliant communities by enhancing agricultural productivity and preserving biodiversity. By equipping rural households-particularly women-with the tools and knowledge to manage natural resources sustainably, we aim to:
- Improve livelihoods
- Ensure long-term food and water security
- Reduce poverty and environmental degradation
Together with our partners and the communities we serve, we are cultivating a future rooted in sustainability and inclusive growth.