On August 18, 2025, an important event dedicated to the National Agricultural Census took place in Shymkent. A special filming session and meeting with representatives of the Department of Statistics took place at the Bolashagy Zor farm, where the farm's activities and future plans were presented in detail. Such visits not only provide an overview of the state of the agricultural sector but also showcase the effectiveness of agricultural producers who have achieved success through hard work and government support.

The "Bolashagy Zor" farm, founded by entrepreneur Maksat Lesbekuly, began with a small number of animals—just twenty lambs. Today, this enterprise has grown into a large farm, with approximately 800 head of cattle, nearly a thousand sheep, and approximately 200–300 horses. The farm's primary focus is fattening livestock, which is then sold both domestically and internationally. The entrepreneur noted that some of the products are already being exported to Uzbekistan, marking a step toward expanding its export potential.

According to Maksat Lesbekula, the farm's development was made possible by systematic government support. The state offers farmers preferential loans and leases for agricultural machinery. The farm is currently preparing documents to obtain machinery and expand production capacity. Thus, this enterprise's example demonstrates how farmers who started with small production can grow into significant enterprises, supplying not only their region but also international markets.

Yerzhan Tulbasiyev, Head of the Industrial and Agricultural Statistics Department at the Shymkent Department of Statistics, reported on the progress of the census. The National Agricultural Census began nationwide on August 1. In Shymkent, 1,450 farms have so far participated, registering online. There are 7,180 farms in the city, and the plan is to cover all participants by August 30.

For the convenience of farmers, 13 special centers have been opened in the city, where specialists assist with filling out documents and completing the census online. It is important to note that the census only covers officially registered farms and entrepreneurs. Private farms of individuals keeping a small number of livestock in their yards are not included in the census.

Yerzhan Tulbasiev also emphasized that participating in the census is mandatory. Farmers who refuse to participate receive a warning, and repeated failures may result in administrative penalties under the law. Therefore, the census is conducted not only for statistical purposes but also to ensure the accuracy of the data needed by the state for agricultural development planning.

The importance of the census is difficult to overstate. It allows the government to gain a realistic picture of how many livestock there are in the country, which agricultural sectors are developing most rapidly, and where support is needed. Based on this data, decisions are made on subsidies, loans, and the introduction of new technologies in the agricultural sector.

Similar events have been held in previous years. In 2010, the agricultural census collected important information on the amount of farmland and livestock. This data served as the basis for adjusting the state program to support agriculture and develop livestock subsidies. In 2020, the census was conducted online for the first time, marking an important step in the digitalization of the industry. However, internet access issues in rural areas were encountered, hindering the work. This year, 2025, thanks to dedicated survey centers and specialist support, these difficulties have been minimized.

A unique feature of this year's census is that it is accompanied by demonstrations of real-life examples of successful farms. The visit to "Bolashagy Zor" demonstrated how a well-organized farm can generate a stable income and contribute to the regional economy. This became a clear example for aspiring entrepreneurs. Young farmers and students attending the event were able to see for themselves that agriculture offers vast business opportunities.

Moreover, such meetings increase youth interest in agriculture. Today, when many young people are pursuing careers in technology and services, demonstrating agricultural successes helps change attitudes toward the industry. This is especially important for the country's southern regions, where livestock and crop farming have always played a key role in the lives of the population.

The August 18 event in Shymkent was a significant milestone not only for statisticians but for the entire agricultural community. It demonstrated that the agricultural census is not just a formal procedure, but a real tool for developing the industry. Past experience has proven that the data collected directly influences government decisions. In 2010, this was through subsidies, in 2020, it was the transition to digitalization, and the current census emphasizes openness, farmer participation, and the demonstration of successful practices.

Thus, the meeting held at the Bolashagy Zor farm confirmed that the future of Kazakhstan's agriculture depends on accurate statistics, government support, and farmers' commitment to development. Shymkent, where thousands of farms are currently active, plays a key role in this process.