Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination convened at Parliament House to discuss the regulation and advertisement of formula milk for infants. Led by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti, the committee emphasized the need for enhanced breastfeeding protection and stronger measures against the commercial promotion of formula milk.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee reviewed the implementation status of its previous recommendations and expressed concerns over a stay order obtained by Nestle from the Islamabad High Court, which affected the enforcement of mandatory disclaimers in formula milk advertisements. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) updated the committee on its efforts to ensure compliance, noting that the disclaimer had been broadcast on 29 television channels.

The meeting involved participation from various senators and senior officials, including the Federal Minister for National Health Services. Discussions highlighted international practices, with references to countries that have restricted formula milk advertisements. The committee underscored the importance of reallocating resources towards improving maternal nutrition and directed the Ministry to prepare advertisements promoting breastfeeding.

Further discussions addressed the legal and procedural aspects of PEMRA’s authority and the need for clear communication of the importance of mother’s milk. The committee assured full support for legislative measures to enforce effective implementation of existing laws. Additionally, concerns regarding professional recognition for degree holders in Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry were raised, prompting the formation of a special committee to address the issue.

The committee also examined the status of the Burn Care Centre at PIMS and the faculty deficiencies at Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University. The Federal Minister pledged timely recruitment to address faculty shortages and infrastructure gaps, ensuring the university’s full capacity is utilized.

The Senate committee reiterated its commitment to addressing these issues, ensuring that existing legal frameworks are upheld and that public health and educational standards are maintained.