Govt to Encourage Private Seed Companies: Minister
In a significant step toward agricultural development, the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has joined hands with Akora Seed Company to enhance the supply and quality of seeds to the farming community. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between Muhammad Siddiq, Chief Executive Officer of Akora Seed Company, and Javed Marwat, Secretary of Agriculture for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government, marking a new era of collaboration in the agricultural sector.
The MoU signing ceremony was graced by Major Retired Sajjad Barkwal, Provincial Minister, as the chief guest. Also in attendance were Abdul Karim Tordhir, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Industries, along with senior officials from the Agriculture Department.
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Expressing his views, Minister Barkwal lauded the crucial role of private seed companies in the agricultural supply chain. “Providing high-quality seeds is pivotal for agricultural success, and this cannot be achieved without the vital contributions of private seed enterprises,” he asserted. The Minister emphasized the necessity for a synergetic effort between the government and private seed companies to ensure the supply of quality seeds and to combat the adversities of seed adulteration and illegal trade.
The representatives from the private seed companies assured their full cooperation and commitment towards working alongside the government to eliminate the illegal and unethical practices in the seed market.
Detailing the advantages of the MoU, Minister Barkwal mentioned that the agreement fosters a cooperative environment for both the government and private entities. This collaboration is expected to leverage innovative research and advancements in the agricultural sphere. “Through this partnership, we aim to equip our farmers with modern and productive varieties of crops, expediting agricultural output and enhancing farmers’ incomes,” he articulated. The initiative aligns with the provincial government’s objective to elevate agricultural production and improve the livelihood of the farming community.
Minister Barkwal expressed optimism about the positive outcomes this partnership would yield. He anticipated that the concerted efforts under the provincial government’s guidance would significantly contribute to the advancement of agriculture in the region.
Also contributing insights at the ceremony was Provincial Director of the Federal Institute for Seed Registration and Verification, Inayatullah Khan. His presence underscored the comprehensive approach being taken by various sectors of the government and private industry in improving the seed supply chain and, by extension, the agricultural output of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The partnership between the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Akora Seed Company serves as a testament to the proactive steps being undertaken to ensure the availability of quality seeds. Such initiatives are crucial for the sustainable development of agriculture, promising prosperity for the farming community and the region at large.
