Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN) Pakistan

Under the Better Cotton Initiative project in Dera Ghazi Khan, RSPN's field teams have been working closely with farmers over the past months to promote simple, practical solutions that address climate challenges, improve soil health, and protect the environment.

We have prioritised soil testing, helping farmers understand their soil conditions and equipping them with the skills to carry out testing independently in the future.

In the cotton-growing regions of Punjab, extreme heat and drought during May and June put pressure on young crops. Frequent irrigation with brackish water increases soil salinity, harming long-term productivity.

To combat this, farmers have been trained in green manuring and intercropping techniques. These practices:
✔️ Improve soil fertility
✔️ Reduce the harmful effects of poor-quality water
✔️ Lower irrigation needs
✔️ Create a natural cooling effect for crops

In addition, through the BCI-GIF initiative, demo plots of improved seed varieties have been established. Farmers received hands-on guidance on seed selection, treatment, optimal seed rates, and maintaining proper plant populations.

We believe adoption becomes easy when farmers are engaged, guided clearly, and supported well. Together, we’re building a more resilient and sustainable future for cotton farming.