ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research reviewed several key agricultural development programs as part of Pakistan’s efforts to enhance its farming sector. The Ministry of National Food Security and Research provided updates on initiatives such as the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) National Reforms Program, which aims to build professional capacity in agriculture. This program includes specialized training, the establishment of model orchards, and eco-villages equipped with climate-resilient technologies. Additionally, the initiative seeks to set up disease and pest diagnostic laboratories and national excellence centers. The Committee recommended utilizing an Italian loan to establish a data processing unit in Khairpur while emphasizing the need for increased public awareness campaigns.
The Ministry also briefed on the establishment of Seed Certification Laboratories in Khuzdar, Turbat, and Loralai, aimed at improving seed purity and disease control. The Committee suggested opting for rental buildings instead of constructing a new facility worth Rs. 180 million, citing cost and time efficiency concerns. The Pakistan-Korea Joint Program for Certified Potato Seed Production was another key discussion, with expectations that Pakistan will begin selling virus-free, high-quality certified seed potatoes from next year.
The Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research convened its 13th meeting on Tuesday at the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) in Islamabad. Chaired by Syed Tariq Hussain, MNA, the session brought together key policymakers and officials to assess ongoing and upcoming projects under the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP). The meeting commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a discussion on the minutes of the previous meeting, which were deferred. A major focus of the session was the review of various development schemes under the purview of the Ministry, evaluating the effectiveness of existing initiatives and recommending improvements.
To enhance oversight of development projects, the Ministry announced the creation of a Project Planning and Development Unit. This unit will track and evaluate ongoing initiatives, implement a monitoring system, and improve coordination between the Ministry and affiliated organizations. Other key projects discussed included the Horticulture Support Program, which aims to reduce post-harvest losses through advanced preservation technologies, and the National Program for Animal Disease Surveillance and Control, which seeks to align Pakistan’s livestock industry with international standards.
Further discussions covered plans to install approximately 8,000 agricultural machines to boost wheat, rice, and maize yields. The establishment of an Endowment Fund for the National Agricultural Research System was also reviewed to strengthen research efforts in seed development. The Committee examined the progress of the Pulses Project, which is nearing completion, and granted a one-year non-cost extension based on its performance. Updates on rice productivity improvements were also shared, showing incremental gains.
After thorough discussions, the Committee approved the proposed schemes with minor recommendations. The meeting was attended by several MNAs, including Mr. Rasheed Ahmed Khan, Rana Muhammad Hayat Khan, Mr. Waseem Qadir, Chaudhary Iftikhar Nazir, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Behan, Mr. Usama Hamza, and Mr. Keso Mal Kheal Das. Senior officials from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, PARC, and other relevant departments also participated in the proceedings.
