Agricultural research, according to LCCI President Kashif Anwar, is essential for addressing issues with global food security.
The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry thanks the Governor of Punjab for acknowledging the private sector’s role in developing new varieties of rice seeds.
“The fact that a private research institution has brought honour to the nation in the context of global agriculture is impressive and should be celebrated. In addition to increasing rice yield, this will help save valuable foreign currency “said he.
The president of LCCI stated in two different letters to the governor of Punjab and the CEO of Guard Rice Shahzad Ali Malik that it is a source of great pride that the Guard Agriculture Research Institution has demonstrated that Pakistani researchers are fully capable of competing with their international counterparts. The award will serve as a global showcase for Pakistan’s agricultural research, he continued.
According to him, the creation of these new varieties of rice seeds is a testament to the creative work and commitment of Pakistani researchers to raising agricultural productivity and bolstering the nation’s agricultural industry.
Agricultural research, according to LCCI President Kashif Anwar, is essential for addressing issues with global food security, enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable farming methods, and ensuring the general welfare of rural communities.
He said that,” Agricultural research is crucial for creating novel methods and technologies that can boost food production because of the rapidly increasing global population.”
By giving farmers better seed options, this accomplishment not only helps the farmers but also improves Pakistan’s standing in the global agricultural market.
Kashif Anwar emphasised that such acknowledgment inspires and motivates scientists to continue working on creating cutting-edge agricultural technologies. Pakistan can improve its agricultural potential, boost exports, and contribute to the country’s overall growth and development by encouraging research and innovation.
He claims that by studying plant genetics, crop breeding, and optimising farming practises, researchers can develop high-yielding and disease-resistant crop varieties, improve irrigation techniques, and improve agricultural systems to meet the rising demand for food.
It is significant to note that the Punjab Seed Council has approved the open-pollinated extra-long grain rice varieties Guard 101 and 102, which promise a 25% higher yield per acre.
The LCCI congratulates Shehzad Ali Malik on his well-deserved honour and expresses confidence in the industry’s continued expansion and achievement thanks to Pakistan’s diligent research and development efforts.
When the previous administration levied a 17 percent salex tax on all seeds, the governor played a key role in bringing up the issue with the PM and securing its withdrawal.