Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, convened the inaugural session of the Committee on Cotton Crop Production Enhancement, following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

According to a PID statement today, the meeting, attended by Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Food Security and Federal Secretary Waseem Ajmal Chaudhry, focused on urgent measures to boost cotton production in response to its significant decline.

The session featured in-depth discussions, with insights and recommendations from various stakeholders. Dr. Zafar of the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee provided a briefing on the current cotton production scenario, spotlighting issues such as the lack of high-quality seeds, inadequate area zoning, and insufficient research on GMO seeds. The discussions also addressed concerns over discriminatory tax policies, undocumented cotton production, and the need for enhanced awareness campaigns.

Stakeholders advocated for promoting crops like onions and mustard that facilitate early cotton sowing. Federal Minister Hussain assured attendees that their input would be reflected in the final report, emphasizing the committee’s goal of implementing strategies to maximize production. Federal Secretary Chaudhry reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to addressing concerns raised, aiming for a comprehensive revival of Pakistan’s cotton sector.