The Senate Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research tackled pressing issues related to the nation’s food security on Thursday, including a sharp drop in rice exports, the disputed appointment of the Director General of Plant Protection (DPP), and the widespread agricultural destruction caused by recent floods. Presided over by Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan, the meeting saw participation from several senators including Poonjo Bheel, Dost Muhammad Khan, and others.

The Chairman of the Rice Importers Association revealed a significant downturn in Pakistan’s rice shipments, with exports to the European Union completely stopped. Senator Danesh Kumar highlighted restrictive measures blocking exports valued at Rs. 5 billion, describing it as ‘an economic stranglehold.’ The committee will consult with industry players before finalizing the NAFSA Ordinance.

The committee also criticized the government’s inaction on court rulings invalidating the DPP’s selection. Chairman Ahsan mandated the Ministry to publish an official announcement within 48 hours.

The panel also examined investigations into former DPP staff Dr. Tariq Khan, Ms. Allah Ditta Abid, and Sohail Shahzad, questioning if they were unfairly targeted. A subcommittee headed by Senator Poonjo Bheel was formed to thoroughly investigate. An independent audit of aerial spray operations and funding was also ordered.

Officials reported that the recent inundations damaged 2.5 million acres of farmland across the country, with Punjab and KP being the most affected regions. Chairman Ahsan termed it ‘a national disaster’ and called for rapid aid through the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). Senator Aimal Wali Khan also advocated for a united national effort.

Senators from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan raised objections to limitations on inter-provincial wheat movement, labeling them prejudiced. Chairman Ahsan emphasized that such actions infringe upon Article 151 of the Constitution, which ensures free commerce between provinces.

The committee decided to issue a notification regarding the DPP within two days, initiate a subcommittee inquiry into employee investigations, conduct an independent audit of DPP functions, re-evaluate the NAFSA Ordinance with input from stakeholders, designate flood-affected regions as disaster areas and offer monetary support through BISP, and protect unimpeded inter-provincial exchange of wheat and crucial goods. “The citizens, the financial system, and national solidarity take precedence – and this committee will safeguard that,” Chairman Ahsan concluded.