LAHORE: The Punjab government is going to set up a separate directorate of milk which will devise a modern system of supply of pure milk to the masses.
Director General of the Punjab Food Authority Raja Jahangir Anwar disclosed this while talking to media here on Thursday on the occasion of “World Milk Day”.
The DG Food Authority said that dairy safety teams check the quality of milk on a daily basis across the province. Since January 1, 2017, the Food Authority has checked more than 28 crore, 29 lakh milk samples. During the checking, 72,42,562 litres of adulterated and defective milk were destroyed.
He further said that there were excellent models of pure milk delivery all over the world. The separate directorate would conduct a detailed review of successful models of milk delivery in the world. In addition, after thorough research, the new system would be introduced according to Pakistan’s resources and environment. He further said that on the pattern of developed countries of the world, all the steps of supplying milk would be monitored.
The DG Food Authority made it clear that after preparing a comprehensive policy and mutual consultation with all stakeholders, the modern and workable system would be implemented. It is the top priority to provide basic food like milk to the people free from adulteration and nutritious, he added.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Dairy Association (PDA) in connection with the World Milk Day hosted an awareness seminar and awareness sessions about milk, followed by the distribution of 15,000 milk packs to students in Lahore and its surrounding areas. The seminar took place at the Lahore College for Women University (LCWU), and was hosted by Dr Shehzad Amin, Chief Executive Officer of the Pakistan Dairy Association, in the presence of relevant government officials, dignitaries, and stakeholders.
The ceremony featured prominent speakers including Prof Dr Javed Akram, Caretaker Health Minister of Punjab, Prof Dr Bushra Mirza, Vice Chancellor, LCWU, and Dr Talat Naseer Pasha, Vice Chancellor, University of Education (UOE).
Dr Shehzad Amin stated that on the “World Milk Day”, we highlight the significance of milk and dairy products. A glass of milk provides daily nourishment to everyone, including children while fostering strong bones, muscles, and overall health.”
He emphasized, “Safe, hygienic packaged milk is crucial for children’s well-being. Inaccessible safe milk causes malnutrition, illness, and fatalities.” He further stressed on the importance of collective action by saying, “Global cooperation is essential in securing safe and nutritious packaged milk for children, demanding investments in dairy farming practices that prioritize hygiene and minimize contamination risks in storage and transportation.” He concluded the ceremony while expressing gratitude to all participants and emphasizing on the significance of the day.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2023