Urging the government to take necessary steps to remove these irritants, Foster advised the government to put in place a regulatory mechanism and legal framework for seed production and dissemination. Increasing yield was key to achieving higher level of production, he added.

The Finance minister on his part assured implementation and early enactment of the Plant Breeders Rights Act and urged the concerned agencies to formulate further amendments in Seed Act in order to encourage the private sector companies.

He directed the Ministry of National Food Security & Research to revitalize the Directorate of Plant Protection to ensure supply of quality pesticides in cotton growing areas.

He also directed Ministry of Climate Change to strengthen the National Bio-safety Committee and its secretariat. The provincial governments were advised to swiftly implement their plans to constitute 'Pink Bollworm Strike' force well in time to ensure plant protection.

The massive shortfall of cotton has forced Pakistani textile mills to import much of its requirements of cotton from various countries, including India. (SH)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India