ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasised the urgent need to formulate a sustainable and long-term agro-industrial policy that promotes the agriculture sector and forestry to counter the effects of climate change.

Chairing a meeting on the reforms in the agriculture sector on Thursday, the prime minister said the introduction of modern technology in the agriculture sector is among his government’s priorities, and the ministries concerned should formulate a comprehensive regulatory framework in the agriculture sector.

The prime minister announced that the government is endeavouring to develop the agriculture sector on modern lines to achieve self-sufficiency in this vital sector of the national economy. The potential of the agriculture sector would be fully harnessed for the economy’s growth, he said.

In this regard, he said the Ministry of National Food Security should involve provinces and engage all stakeholders in formulating a comprehensive strategy.

He also stressed the need to speed up reforms in the seed certification system and adopt a strategy to promote certified seeds.

Published in Dawn, May 16th, 2025