Find in Library

In this article, we elaborate on why the cultivation of the <i>Ziziphus</i> is important in the arid regions of Pakistan and how it can alleviate the poverty and food insecurity in these areas. The recent impact of climate change has resulted in the spread of hot and dry regions. The cultivation of <i>Ziziphus</i> species could be a solution to food insecurity and income for the residents of arid and semi-arid regions in Pakistan. Furthermore, <i>Ziziphus</i> species are offering extremely nutrient-dense foods. Six species of <i>Ziziphus</i> are found in Pakistan, but production statistics are not available for all species. The most economically important species are <i>Z. jujuba</i> and <i>Z. mauritiana</i>, followed by <i>Z. nummularia</i>, based on the consumption of their fruits. A framework of policy and practical proposals required for the cultivation of these species in Pakistan has been provided. <i>Ziziphus,</i> an economically important genus of fruit-bearing plant species, is cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Therefore, the species of this genus could be efficiently and successfully cultivated in marginal ecosystems for alleviating food insecurity and poverty reduction in Pakistan. Furthermore, <i>Ziziphus</i> species like <i>Z. jujuba</i> and <i>Z. mauritiana</i> have promise as a cash and food crop, especially in water-deficient areas of Pakistan, and their production and conservation must be encouraged by state policy.