In a major development for Pakistan’s agriculture sector, the Variety Evaluation Committee has recommended 10 new high-yield pulse varieties for cultivation to boost food productivity in the country.
The new varieties of pulses recommended by the committee for cultivation in Pakistan are NIFA Mung-24, NIAB-CH26, NIAB-CH30, NIAB-CH32, NIAB-CH69, NIAB-CH73, NARC Lentil 24, NARC Mung 24 and Mahnoor 24.
The Variety Evaluation Committee met at the Pakistan Agriculture Research Council under the chairmanship of Dr Imtiaz Hussain, Member of Plant Sciences Division. Seed certification and agricultural scientists also participated in the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Imtiaz expressed his faith that the release of high-yielding pulse varieties would contribute to improving pulses productivity in the country. He also emphasized PARC's commitment to support public and private sector institutes and seed companies in evaluating and releasing new varieties.
Hailing the development, Federal Minister of Industries and Production and National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer said consistent and result-oriented efforts are needed to improve research and boost production of fine quality seed varieties.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research Sajid Shah, the federal minister said the new pulse varieties are a milestone and a step towards increasing the productivity of pulses and overall agricultural development in the country. “This development is a significant step towards enhancing productivity and profitability in the agriculture sector,” he added.
The minister commended the scientists and researchers for their hard work and dedication in developing these new varieties. He said the new pulse varieties will not only benefit farmers but also contribute towards ensuring food security in the country. “We will continue to making strenuous efforts for the promotion and growth of the agriculture sector in Pakistan. We will work towards providing farmers with the necessary support, resources, and technology to further enhance their productivity and income,” he maintained.
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