**7. The agroecological zones and land use pattern**

The agriculture sector continues to play a basic role in the arid region economy. "It is the second largest sector, accounting for over 22% of GDP, and remains by far the largest employer, absorbing 45% of the country's total labor force. Nearly 62% of the country's population resides in rural areas, and is directly or indirectly linked with agriculture for their livelihood" [18].

About nine different agroecological zones have been identified in the arid region of Pakistan by GoP [19], and the map produced has been updated on the basis of the recent data. The general description, physiography, land use, and environmental condition of each agroecological zone have been given below.
