ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 7th Aug, 2024) Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, on Wednesday urged agriculture scientists and policymakers to actively contribute to the improvement of the local agriculture sector to ensure food safety and security in the country.
Speaking at the inauguration of the seed potato complex and the International Symposium on Seed Potato Production and Supply Chain, the minister highlighted that despite Pakistan’s agricultural economy, the country continues to import food items.
The event was organized by the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) in collaboration with the Korean Program on International Agriculture (KOPIA). Its goal is to produce virus-free seed potatoes to enhance local crop yields and generate an exportable surplus.
The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, senior officials from PARC, NARC, KOPIA, as well as representatives from national and international organizations, development partners, agricultural scientists, experts, private sector organizations, NGOs, and progressive farmers from across the country.
During his address, the minister emphasized the importance of fostering public-private partnerships to advance agricultural research and ensure its effective dissemination to farmers.
This, he stated, is crucial for increasing per-acre yields of all major and minor crops to meet domestic needs.
The minister noted that potatoes are a significant cash crop in the country and the third-largest food crop, cultivated over 837,669 acres in various seasons and regions.
He explained that the establishment of an aeroponic greenhouse would enhance the quality of seed potatoes, support modern research, and ensure a steady supply of quality seeds to local farmers. Additionally, it would create and boost employment opportunities.
Rana Tanveer Hussain also mentioned that domestic production of potato seeds would help save foreign exchange and provide seeds at affordable prices to local farmers.
He emphasized that the government is committed to developing the agriculture sector and has initiated several projects to support its growth.
He highlighted that both nations are collaborating on agricultural technology transfer projects, which will bolster local agricultural output and sector development. The minister concluded by noting that KOPIA’s assistance would aid Pakistan in addressing food safety and security challenges and achieving sustainable agricultural development.
