In response to Pakistan's declining cotton production and shrinking cultivation area, the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC) and CottonConnect jointly organized the first National Cotton Revival Conference in Multan. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, agricultural experts, industry leaders, research institutions, and farmer organizations, to develop a sustainable roadmap for revitalizing the cotton sector. Experts stressed the urgent need for policy reforms, including the development of high-yield, climate-resilient seed varieties, efficient irrigation systems, and improved farmer support programs. They also emphasized the adoption of modern technology across the cotton value chain to enhance production, processing, trade, and exports. Speaking at the conference, MNA Rana Qasim Noon called for increased financial support for research institutions and the integration of PCCC with PARC. MPA Rana Iqbal Siraj urged restrictions on sugarcane and rice cultivation in cotton belts. Federal Secretary for National Food Security & Research, Wasim Ajmal Chaudhry, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the cotton sector through collaborative efforts. ICAC Adviser Dr. Eric highlighted the committee’s role in supporting Pakistan with advanced agricultural practices and improved seed varieties. Major General (R) Shahid Nazir and Major General Muhammad Ayub Ahsan Bhatti emphasized the importance of land restoration, modern machinery, and efficient resource management in boosting cotton productivity. Allison Ward, CEO of CottonConnect, underscored the need for sustainable cotton practices, farmer training, and responsible resource use. Dr. Yousaf Zafar, Vice President of PCCC, called for joint efforts to address production challenges and strengthen research and innovation in the cotton industry. The conference concluded with experts reaffirming their commitment to revitalizing Pakistan’s cotton sector through sustainability, modern technology, and policy reforms. Sustainable Cotton Platform will be established under PCCC supported by CottonConnect. Primark, BCI, OCA, FairTrade, PCGA, APTMA, Farmers, Govt departments and others will be members of this group. Participants agreed that strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and farmers is essential to restoring cotton’s crucial role in the national economy.
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