Dateline Report
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) successfully conducted the “National Workshop on Soybean Production in Pakistan” Monday, with Dr. Kauser Abdulla Malik, the Federal Minister for the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, as the Chief Guest. The event saw the participation of key figures, including Captain (Rtd) Muhammad Mehmood, Federal Secretary of MNFS&R, Ms. Florence Rolle from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and Dr. Iqrar Ahmed Khan, Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad.
Addressing the workshop, Dr. Kauser Abdulla Malik emphasized the integration of soybean cultivation into the national agricultural landscape while ensuring ecological compatibility. He stressed the need for economic feasibility for farmers and highlighted the crucial linkages between soybean production and stakeholders such as the poultry and solvent industry. The Minister commended PARC for its dedication to promoting soybean production and thanked FAO for consistent support.
Captain (Rtd.) Muhammad Mehmood highlighted soybean as a major contributor to the import bill, urging the need to indigenize production and devise a “Soybean-2030” plan for self-sufficiency. Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, in his keynote address, welcomed guests and underscored the potential to save billions by reducing soybean imports. Chairman PARC outlined possibilities and action plans for soybean cultivation in Balochistan.
Ms. Florence Rolle reiterated FAO’s commitment to food and nutritional security, emphasizing the involvement of farmers in achieving self-sufficiency. Stakeholders, including the Pakistan Poultry Association and the private sector, endorsed the self-sufficiency plan during discussions, expressing unwavering support. The workshop included a roundtable session focused on formulating a practical action plan for soybean production sustainability.
The Minister for National Food Security and Research expressed gratitude to participants, particularly acknowledging FAO for their active involvement in these significant events. The workshop marks a pivotal step towards the government’s commitment to self-sufficiency in soybean production, aiming to reduce the import bill and bolster the agricultural sector.
