CM aide presents proposals to safeguard tobacco growers’ interests

PESHAWAR: Special Assistant to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister for Industries, Abdul Karim Khan Tordher on Wednesday presented several proposals to safeguard the interests of tobacco growers in the province.

Advisor to Chief Minister on Finance Muzammil Aslam chaired the meeting, which was convened to discuss the future of the Pakistan Tobacco Board in light of the federal cabinet’s approval of a proposal to dissolve the national entity and transfer its essential functions to the provinces.

On this occasion, Special Assistant Abdul Karim Tordher presented several constructive proposals for the continuation of the services of the relevant institution under the provincial government, specifically for the welfare of tobacco farmers and growers.

The meeting was attended by officials, including Secretary Agriculture Attaur Rehman and representatives from the departments of Finance and Excise and Taxation. The special assistant suggested that in light of the possible transfer of the PTB’s functions and formulation of any legislative framework (Act), it should prioritize the protection of tobacco-growing farmers and cultivators.

He recommended that the administration of the proposed provincial board or institution be entrusted to qualified and experienced persons, who possessed the necessary expertise in this field.

He emphasized that to make the provincial board more effective and reflective of the sector’s development, particular focus should be given to research and development (R&D), aiming to enhance both the quantity and quality of tobacco production.The special assistant proposed providing job security to the employees of the board to ensure a smooth transition.