ISLAMABAD: Reiterating the government’s resolve to increasing exports, Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Sunday said that the registration system for pesticides would be digitalised to streamline the processes.

During a meeting with the director general of plant protection, Dr Tariq Khan, the minister said, “An effective system for the inspection of rice and mango plants must be established.” Inspections, he added, would be conducted in a timely manner to ensure quality.

Agricultural pesticides play a vital role in protecting crops from pests and diseases, ensuring food security and economic stability. However, a wrong use and over-reliance on pesticides in Pakistan have raised concerns about their adverse effects on human health, environment, and sustainable agriculture.

“Exporters will be provided with all possible facilities within the law to boost exports, but compromise on quality and standards will not be acceptable,” the minister said.

Registration system for pesticides to be digitalised, minister says

“The government has a strong commitment to increasing exports,” he said, adding that a comprehensive strategy would be formulated to improve the fumigation system and increase the number of fumigation companies.

“The plant protection department (PPD) plays a significant role in the agriculture sector,” he added.

The director general briefed the minister on the PPD’s functions and performance as well as the challenges it faced.

Mr Hussain said efforts would be made to develop a comprehensive strategy to improve the PPD’s performance. “It [PPD] will be brought up to high standards, ensuring its operations to meet top quality benchmarks,” he added.

“We have a strong commitment to promoting merit and transparency within the department. Corruption and inefficiency will not be tolerated in any form,” he said. “The system will be digitalised to ensure transparency in operations.”

The minister said that PPD would be developed on modern lines to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness, and all resources would be utilised to address the staff shortage in the department.

Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2024