Pakistan’s 2024 Census: 251M Livestock, 4.8M Donkeys Counted

Download IPFS

Pakistan’s 7th Agricultural Census 2024, released after 14 years, reports a livestock population of 251.3 million, including 4.8 million donkeys, alongside growth in farm households and cultivated land.

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has unveiled the 7th Agricultural Census 2024, marking the first comprehensive survey of its kind since 2010. The census reveals a livestock population of 251.3 million, a 3.18% annual growth from 143 million in 2006, including 95.8 million goats, 55.8 million cattle, 47.7 million buffaloes, 44.5 million sheep, 1.5 million camels, and 4.8 million donkeys. Conducted with digital tools like real-time mapping and geo-tagging, the census underscores Pakistan’s commitment to modernizing data collection, as stated by PBS Chief Statistician Dr. Naeem uz Zafar in a press release reported by APP. The data will guide policy to bolster agriculture, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy.

The census also reports a rise in agricultural households to 11.7 million from 8.3 million in 2010, reflecting the sector’s growing role in rural livelihoods. Cultivated land has expanded to 52.8 million acres from 42.6 million, with 79% irrigated by canals and tube wells, according to Radio Pakistan. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, speaking at the launch, emphasized that agriculture drives Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), exports, and employment, per Arab News. He praised the PBS for its innovative approach, noting its alignment with the government’s “Uraan Pakistan” plan to achieve a $3 trillion economy by 2047 under the 5Es framework (Exports, E-Pakistan, Energy, Environment, and Equity).

The census highlights challenges, including the need for improved livestock management to sustain growth. Indicates in public interest in the data, with some users noting the significant donkey population’s role in rural transport. The findings will support evidence-based policies for food security and resource allocation, as per Daily Times. With Pakistan’s economy showing recovery signs, including $11.3 billion in foreign reserves, the census offers a foundation for targeted agricultural reforms to enhance productivity and rural prosperity.