Islamabad: The Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research convened its third meeting of the year today, focusing on strategic initiatives to rejuvenate Pakistan’s cotton sector. Chaired by Syed Tariq Hussain, MNA, the session was marked by detailed discussions on enhancing cotton production and addressing the industry’s persistent challenges.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the meeting, held in the Parliament House, began with a confirmation of the minutes from the previous session, followed by a thorough review of prior recommendations. The Committee then received an extensive briefing on the new Cotton Policy for fiscal year 2024-25, outlining strategic goals aimed at boosting cotton yields, improving seed quality, and expanding market access for cotton growers.
Members expressed significant concerns over the declining cotton production and its impact on farmers’ incomes, highlighting the necessity for urgent interventions such as subsidies, improved pest control, and the adoption of modern agricultural practices. The meeting also addressed the closure of numerous cotton ginning factories, which has adversely affected employment and local economies. Calls were made for swift actions to restore these facilities and ensure the sustainability of the ginning sector.
The Committee deliberated on operational challenges faced by the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC), discussing bureaucratic hurdles and inefficiencies that hinder the cotton industry’s growth. Strategies for a comprehensive overhaul of the PCCC’s structure were debated, aiming to enhance administrative efficiency and decision-making.
Additionally, the session covered the ongoing collaboration issues between the PCCC and the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), with a focus on developing cooperative solutions that could lead to more effective outcomes for the cotton sector.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the Committee’s dedication to revitalizing the cotton industry through a cohesive strategy that includes fostering technological advancement and strengthening stakeholder partnerships. The Chairman emphasized the importance of continued monitoring and adaptive strategies to ensure the sector’s sustainable development and resilience.
Present at the meeting were Rana Tanveer Hussain, Minister for National Food Security and Research, and other notable members of the Committee, along with senior officers from the ministry and related departments.