Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has emphasized that agricultural research institutions must produce practical results that directly benefit farmers, increase crop productivity and contribute to Pakistan's economic growth.
He expressed these views while chairing a high-level meeting at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad, where he reviewed the research achievements of various institutes during Kharif 2026 and their plans for Rabi 2026–27.
The meeting was attended by Additional Secretary MNFS&R, Director General to the Federal Minister, Chairman Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi, Director General NARC and Directors of NARC's research institutes.
Addressing the scientists, Rana Tanveer Hussain said that Pakistan possesses considerable agricultural potential, but realizing it requires dedicated scientific research, modern technologies and effective coordination between research institutions and farmers.
He stressed that developing high-yielding, climate-resilient crop varieties, improving water-use efficiency and reducing agricultural production costs must remain central priorities of national research institutions.
The Federal Minister particularly directed scientists to accelerate the development of indigenous basmati rice varieties with superior yield and quality to reduce dependence on Indian varieties. He also called for greater attention to pulses and oilseeds, emphasizing that increasing their domestic production would help reduce Pakistan's import bill.
Rana Tanveer Hussain directed the Agricultural Engineering Institute to focus on the commercialization of locally developed machinery so that farmers could benefit from affordable and efficient agricultural technologies. He also instructed livestock researchers to prioritize the development of vaccines against major animal diseases and promote research-based animal feed products.
Highlighting the country's agricultural export potential, the Minister called for the adoption of modern beekeeping practices, improvement in honey quality and compliance with international standards. He also encouraged the promotion of high-value fruit crops, including avocado and blueberry, in areas with suitable climatic conditions.
The Minister emphasized that PARC scientists must strengthen collaboration with provincial governments, international research organizations and the private sector to ensure that scientific innovations reach farmers without unnecessary delays.
Earlier, Chairman PARC Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi briefed the Minister on the Council's research programmes and institutional initiatives, including the strengthening of the Agricultural Linkages Programme and revival of the Inter-Provincial Agricultural Research Coordination Committee to improve coordination among research institutions.
During the presentations, the Minister was informed that six crop varieties had been approved during Kharif 2026, while more than 265 tonnes of quality seed had been produced. Scientists also highlighted progress in livestock breeding, development of a locally produced thermotolerant PPR vaccine, agricultural mechanization, climate-smart farming and water conservation.
The meeting was further informed about advancements in horticulture, food processing and honeybee research, including the establishment of Pakistan's first high-tech beeswax sheet production unit. The Minister appreciated these initiatives and emphasized their wider adoption and commercial application.
Speaking on institutional performance, Rana Tanveer Hussain urged PARC employees to treat the organization as their own institution and demonstrate a strong sense of ownership, professional responsibility and dedication. He said that the reputation of PARC must be strengthened through meaningful scientific achievements and visible contributions to the country's agricultural development.
The Federal Minister appreciated the efforts of Chairman PARC, DG NARC and the scientists for continuing their research activities despite resource constraints. He assured them of the Ministry's continued support in addressing institutional and operational challenges.
Following the meeting, Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated the 10-acre Regenerative Agriculture Block at NARC, aimed at promoting sustainable farming practices, restoring soil health, improving resource efficiency and strengthening agricultural resilience against climate change.
The Minister said that regenerative agriculture and modern research-based farming practices could play an important role in protecting Pakistan's agricultural resources and ensuring sustainable production for future generations.
He reiterated that the government expects PARC and NARC to play a more effective role in addressing farmers' challenges, improving agricultural productivity and strengthening national food security.
