Islamabad: The Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research held its 10th meeting on Wednesday, as members gathered to address issues ranging from cotton sector taxation to electricity costs in the agriculture sector. Led by Chairman Syed Tariq Hussain, the committee outlined future steps for resolving these challenges.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the meeting began with a focus on legislative matters, deferring the Pakistan Animal Science Council Bill, 2024. The committee instructed relevant ministries to revisit the bill for future consensus. Discussions progressed to the cotton sector, where recent efforts by the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee and industry associations were reviewed, particularly regarding the cotton CESS liabilities. The committee commended these efforts and emphasized the need for uniform sales tax within the sector, recommending collaboration among stakeholders and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Electricity costs for farmers emerged as a key concern, with the committee noting that farmers face higher costs compared to industrial sectors. The Ministry of Energy reported ongoing efforts to reduce generation costs and provide relief, with plans to tackle unjustified taxes affecting farmers. Additionally, potential collaborations for a research center in Khairpur to enhance date production were discussed, with the committee urging expansion of research initiatives across provinces.

The meeting was attended by notable members of the committee and senior officers from relevant ministries and associations, all contributing to a comprehensive discussion on the country’s food security and research challenges.