Source: Byerlee, D., and T. Husain. 1992. Introduction to major farming systems. p. 1-12. In D. Byerlee and T. Husain (ed.) Farming systems of Pakistan: diagnosing priorities for agricultural research. Vanguard Books, Lahore, Pakistan.

Economists Derek Byerlee and his colleague Tariq Husain describe the different types of agricultural areas in Pakistan as well as the major sustainable farming systems in each area. The authors' present an overview of the differing systems as well as some of the research needs of these systems. The three main agro-ecological zones that Byerlee and Husain define are as follows: (1) irrigated systems of the Indus Basin, (2) rainfed systems of the northern plains and plateaus, and (3) farming systems of the mountain areas. The irrigated areas of the Indus Basin represent the largest irrigated system in the world. It provides the bulk of Pakistan's food using a crop rotation of wheat with cotton or rice, or a mixture of sugar cane, maize, and other crops such as potatoes, rice, and vegetables. The rainfed systems of the northern plains and plateaus known as the Punjab are described. Here there is an intricate relationship of livestock and crops, especially pulses and wheat, with the rainfall received. Problems include harnessing the environmental resources, including the monsoons; small, fragmented farms and out-migration; and comparatively slow development because of neglect and a lack of research. On the other hand, there have been instances of higher wheat yields in these rainfed plains than on irrigated land. Finally, in the mountain areas there is a diversity of environments that change quickly with topography and that restrict agriculture. The farms in this area are small, multi-enterprise, and highly livestock dependent. They struggle with the topography, out-migration, and physical isolation. Two-crop rotation, single and double cropping, irrigation, and livestock are all components of the diverse systems in these mountains. The authors hope was that this book might interest scientists in Pakistani agriculture so that they can better provide for the future of the country.

Abstract author: Rebekah L. Palmer, 8 November 1996.

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