ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research has called for a comprehensive approach to cotton policy, including targeted strategies to increase yields, improve seed quality, and secure better market access for growers.

A meeting of the committee, chaired by Syed Tariq Hussain, on Friday was briefed on the cotton policy for 2024-25 and its strategic aims, which are designed to rejuvenate and enhance cotton production in cotton-growing areas of the country.

The committee recommended the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, offering financial incentives for research and development, and establishing efficient channels for domestic and international market integration to increase quality cotton production.

The committee engaged in detailed discussions on these elements, emphasising the policy’s potential to transform the cotton industry and improve farmers’ livelihoods.

The committee members expressed grave concerns over the perpetual decline in cotton production and prices. The ramifications of this trend on farmers’ livelihoods were thoroughly discussed.

Members highlighted the urgent need for effective remedies to stabilise and boost cotton production, including subsidies, better pest control measures, and the adoption of modern farming techniques.

The reasons behind the widespread closure of cotton ginning factories were deliberated, and the committee noted the adverse impact this has had on the cotton value chain, particularly on employment and local economies.

The committee members called for immediate measures to revive these factories and sustain the ginning sector.

The challenges and administrative difficulties confronted by the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC) were thoroughly debated during the meeting.

The discussion focused on inefficiencies within the existing operational protocols, bureaucratic impediments, and the necessity for enhancement of resource management.

The committee emphasised the critical need for a strategic restructuring to reform the PCCC’s organisational framework and processes. These reforms aim to streamline administrative functions, improve decision-making processes, and implement more effective policies that align with the evolving requirements of the cotton industry.

Additionally, the committee engaged in comprehensive deliberations regarding the outstanding issues between the PCCC and the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association.

Emphasis was placed on fostering collaborative solutions to enhance efficiency and address critical concerns within the cotton sector, aiming to fortify the framework for future growth and stability in Pakistan’s textile industry.

The committee evaluated the research conducted by the PCCC on cotton and its seeds, focusing on how the findings could be practically applied to enhance cotton production across Pakistan.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to revitalise the country’s cotton industry through a vigorous and collaborative approach.

Published in Dawn, August 17th, 2024