Additional Secretary (Planning) Dr Ghazanfar Ali Khan stated that Government of Punjab remained fully committed to introducing latest cotton technologies in the province. He said Agriculture Department had weighed various technology options and has arrived at the conclusion that the multinational seed biotechnology company, Monsanto, was the only technology provider that complied with international standards and had the requisite capacity to revive cotton crop in Pakistan.
Speaking at a seminar on 'Cotton' organised by Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture (MNSUA) Multan, which was largely attended by the farmers, elected representatives and students, he explained that Monsanto's latest Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex technology had dual mode of action against pests with additional feature of 'Roundup Ready Flex', allowing for significantly better weed management capability. He added that local seed varieties with Bollgard II technology will have at least 75 percent germination, matching international quality standards.
While concluding his address, Dr Ghazanfar urged all stakeholders to support the government in this endeavour and join hands in reviving the cotton crop in Pakistan. He said Punjab government was introducing its own seed law to regulate the business of the seed and to protect the interest and money of farmers.
He warned there would be no permission to sell pre-basic, basic and immatured variety of seed in the market. "We would not only cancel the licences of violators but also move to SECP for cancellation of their licences under companies act."
He further said that no research centre or institute was authorised to sell its variety. "If any violated these instructions then head of centre and other responsible persons would be taken to task."
In his inaugural speech, Dr Asif Ali, Vice Chancellor MNSUA, also highlighted lack of quality cotton seed as a major impediment for growth in the cotton crop. He emphasised the need for all stakeholders, including government, multinational seed companies, local seed companies, public sector research institutions and the academia, to form consensus on remedial actions and play their respective roles towards cotton's revival in Pakistan.
Dr Asif Ali also commended Government of Punjab for acknowledging the plight of farmers and taking positive steps towards introducing latest biotech cotton seed in Punjab.
Representing Monsanto Pakistan on the occasion, Corporate Engagement Lead, Azeem Niazi, presented an overview of the framework being finalised with the Punjab Government for cotton technology introduction.
He explained that the proposed arrangement with government of Punjab calls for the promotion of a vibrant seed industry and seeks to harness Monsanto's latest technology in promising Pakistani varieties, through locally produced certified seed, coupled with provision of requisite stewardship in collaboration with local seed companies.
He explained that such collaboration would only serve to drive improvement in local germplasm and enhance the capacity of local seed companies to deliver better quality seed.
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