Asad Khan Bahadur

THIS article investigates the negative impacts of sugarcane cultivation in Pakistan, analyzing its ecological, economic and political consequences.

Despite its profitability, sugarcane poses significant threats to water resources, crop diversity and institutional integrity. Based on recent reports, empirical studies and policy reviews, this article argues for urgent reform in Pakistan’s agricultural policy framework to promote sustainable crop practices.

Introduction: Pakistan’s agrarian economy has historically relied on water-intensive crops, but a few have been as damaging as sugarcane. Once seen as a cash crop for rural upliftment, sugarcane now contributes to severe water stress, displaces key exports like cotton and perpetuates elite capture of agricultural resources. This article explores the ecological, economic and political impacts of sugarcane, emphasizing the need for systemic reform.

Water Usage and Environmental Impact: Sugarcane........

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