Islamabad: The Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research convened on Friday at Parliament House to deliberate amendments to the 1976 Seed Act and the Seed (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Chaired by Syed Tariq Hussain, MNA, the committee directed the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to consult with provincial authorities on the legislation, underscoring the need for collaborative governance in agricultural matters.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee discussed the proposed leadership structure for the National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority, suggesting the Minister for National Food Security should lead, given their direct involvement over the Prime Minister’s broader responsibilities. The session also addressed overlapping issues between the Plant Breeder Rights Act of 2016 and the new amendment bill, with further stakeholder engagement planned before the next meeting.
The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) recommended limiting the Authority’s role to regulatory functions and suggested the Authority’s chairman hold a PhD in agriculture with substantial experience. Concerns about counterfeit seeds led to the formation of a high-level inquiry, with results expected soon. The committee’s next steps include a detailed review of the Seed Certification Process to ensure compliance and quality in agricultural practices.