LAHORE: The Pakistan Hitech Hybrid Seed Association (PHHSA) has demanded that it should be given representation as a stakeholder on the National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority (NSDRA) to make it an effective national body for achieving the results enshrined in its mandate.

PHHSA chairman Shahzad Ali Malik said that the association was committed to enhancing the quality of seeds and combating the detrimental activities of the seed mafia, which continue to inflict substantial losses on farmers and agricultural production.”PHHSA’s genuine demand as a stakeholder in the NSDRA underscores the importance of industry representation in regulatory bodies tasked with overseeing seed development. By participating in decision-making processes, the association aims to contribute its expertise and insights towards the formulation of effective policies and regulations that safeguard the interests of farmers,” he said in a statement here on Sunday.

Mr Malik, who pioneered hybrid rice seed three decades ago, said one of the primary objectives behind PHHSA’s advocacy for representation is to address the pervasive issue of counterfeit and substandard seeds proliferated by unscrupulous elements. These nefarious activities not only deceive unsuspecting farmers but also undermine the integrity of the agricultural sector, leading to significant economic losses and jeopardising food security, he added.

Calling for action against the seed mafia, Mr Malik said through coordinated efforts with law-enforcement agencies and relevant authorities, stringent measures must be implemented to identify and prosecute the individuals involved in the illicit trade of adulterated seeds. “Such decisive action is essential to deter potential offenders and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers who rely on quality seeds for optimal crop yields.”

He said that by fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within the seed industry, stakeholders can collectively strive towards a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

Published in Dawn, April 8th, 2024