Govt is introducing latest cotton technologies with the help of "Monsanto"

MULTAN,March 28th:The Additional Secretary (Planning), Dr. Ghazanfar Ali Khan stated that Government of Punjab remains fully committed to introducing latest cotton technologies in the Province. He further added that the Agriculture Department had weighed various technology option and has since arrived at the conclusion that the multinational seed biotechnology company, Monsanto, is the only technology provider that complies with international standards and has the requisite capacity to revive cotton crop in Pakistan. Speaking at the Cotton Seminar organized by Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture (MNSUA) Multan,which was largely attended by the farmers,elected representatives and students . He explained that Monsanto’s latest Bollgard II Roundup Ready Flex technology has dual mode of action against pests with additional feature of ‘Roundup Ready Flex’, allowing for significantly better weed management capability. He added that local seed varieties with Bollgard II technology will have at the least 75% germination, matching international quality standards. While concluding his address, Dr. Ghazanfar urged all stakeholders to support the Government in this endeavor and join hands in reviving the cotton crop in Pakistan. He further said that No research centre or institute was authorised to sell its variety .If any violated these instructions then head of centre and other responsible persons would be taken to task.

In his inaugural speech, Dr. Asif Ali, Vice Chancellor MNSUA, also highlighted lack of quality cotton seed as a major impediment for growth in the cotton crop. He emphasized the need for all stakeholders, including Government, multinational seed companies, local seed companies, public sector research institutions and the academia, to form consensus on remedial actions and play their respective roles towards cotton’s revival in Pakistan. Dr. Asif Ali also commended Government of Punjab for acknowledging the plight of farmers and taking positive steps towards introducing latest biotech cotton seed in Punjab.

Representing Monsanto Pakistan on the occasion, Corporate Engagement Lead, Azeem Niazi, presented an overview of the framework being finalized with the Punjab Government for cotton technology introduction. He explained that the proposed arrangement with Government of Punjab calls for the promotion of a vibrant seed industry and seeks to harness Monsanto’s latest technology in promising Pakistani varieties, through locally produced certified seed, coupled with provision of requisite stewardship in collaboration with local seed companies. He explained that such a collaboration will only serve to drive improvement in local germplasm and enhance the capacity of local seed companies to deliver better quality seed. Monsanto’s continued technical oversight will allow for the sustainable development of the local seed industry and will provide the farming community access to the latest cotton technologies.The cotton crop remains a major driver of the economy. This past year's performance alone shaved off 0.5% from the GDP growth. Pakistan's textile exports are also significantly dependent on the cotton crop. Cotton production supports an industry that provides jobs for 40% of the Country’s industrial workforce and generates $12 billion in exports.  In 2015, cotton crop production declined by 4.6 million bales against the projected target. This resulted in a significant dent in the national GDP, textile exports and farmer incomes. There is now growing consensus that lack of quality cotton seed remains a major impeding factor leading to this decline.
Punjab Government has decided to take action against sellers of substandard seeds and adulterated fertilizers,