DUE to the lack of effective laws related to patents and damages, local scientists feel discouraged in undertaking research work to produce what the local industry needs. We are importing each and every raw material for our pharmaceutical, chemical and agricultural industries. None of the raw material is produced here.

Research in our context is limited to the publication of research articles which does not have any impact on our economic condition. In such a situation, if we want to create a knowledge-based economy, the emphasis should be on practical research. There must be strict patent and damages laws and the universities should be instructed to produce quality raw materials during their research projects.

The pharmaceutical industry alone imports raw material worth over $8 billion annually. If we can reduce it even by half through local research-based initiatives, there will be a serious change in our socio-economic condition and overall culture.

Dr Muhammad Hassan
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2021