NA panel concerned over drop in cotton cultivation, prices

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research Friday expressed grave concern over the perpetual decline in cotton production and cotton prices in the country.

The committee held its third meeting with Syed Tariq Hussain in the chair here at Parliament House.

The effects of decline in cotton production and cotton prices on the farmers’ livelihoods were thoroughly discussed.

The members highlighted the urgent need for effective remedies to stabilize and boost cotton production, including subsidies, better pest control measures, and adoption of modern farming techniques.

The reasons behind the widespread closure of cotton ginning factories were deliberated.

The committee noted the adverse impact this has had on the cotton value chain, particularly on employment and local economies.

The members called for immediate measures to revive these factories and sustain the ginning sector.

During the meeting, the current challenges and administrative difficulties confronted by the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC) were thoroughly debated.

The discussion focused on inefficiencies within the existing operational protocols, bureaucratic impediments, and the necessity for enhancement of the resource management.

The committee emphasized the critical need for a strategic restructuring to reform the PCCC’s organizational framework and processes.

The goal of these reforms is to streamline administrative functions, improve decision-making processes, and implement more effective policies that align with the evolving requirements of the cotton industry.

Additionally, the committee engaged in comprehensive deliberations regarding the outstanding issues between the PCCC and the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA).

Emphasis was placed on fostering collaborative solutions to enhance efficiency and address critical concerns in the cotton sector, aiming to fortify the framework for future growth and stability in Pakistan’s textile industry.

The committee evaluated the research conducted by the PCCC on cotton and its seeds, with a focus on how the findings could be practically applied to enhance cotton production across Pakistan.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to revitalizing Pakistan’s cotton industry through a vigorous and collaborative approach.

The comprehensive review and strategic recommendations discussed during today’s meeting stressed the importance of addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the sector.