Lahore: The Punjab government is set to introduce amendments to several laws to enhance the effectiveness of institutions operating under Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Secretary Dr. Kiran Khursheed announced. Dr. Khursheed, who chaired a meeting with officials from the Operations Wing and legal advisers, emphasized the need for timely legal adjustments to align institutional performance with modern standards.

According to Directorate General Public Relations – Govt of Punjab, the meeting comprehensively reviewed legislation related to the Punjab Agricultural Marketing Regulatory Authority (PAMRA), Punjab Food Authority, Directorate General Enforcement, Punjab Halal Development Authority, Consumer Protection, and the Slaughterhouses Act. Dr. Khursheed directed that necessary legal amendments be finalized promptly to improve institutional efficacy. She also instructed the issuance of clear timelines for complaint resolution.

Proposed amendments include aligning the appointment procedure for chairpersons and members of authorities with the Rules of Business 2011, restructuring authorities to include agriculture and finance secretaries on their boards, and empowering PAMRA to regulate agricultural markets comprehensively. Other proposals discussed involved redefining agricultural marketing terms, integrating packaging activities, and granting PAMRA authority over agricultural market stakeholders.

Further discussions included empowering the Food Authority, PAMRA, and Halal Development Authority to regulate registration fees, posts, remuneration, and honoraria. Dr. Khursheed stated that these amendments aim to address legal gaps, reduce case backlogs, and modernize agricultural marketing and food safety systems. The meeting also assured the protection of service rights, pensions, and retirement rules for existing employees.