Biotech Crops Adoption Report Launched in Pakistan

The launching ceremony of ISAAA report on global status of GM crops (ISAAA Brief 46) was organized by the Pakistan Biotechnology Information Center (PABIC) in collaboration with PABIC Lahore chapter at Forman Christian College on August 19, 2014. Renowned biotechnologists of Pakistan, Dr. Kauser Abdullah Malik and Dr. Tayyab Hussain, delivered talks at the event and said that that agriculture is the backbone of national economy.

Pakistan is among the largest producers of cotton, maize, rice, citrus, and other crops. However, the yield and quality of agriculture produce is not at par with global standards. Therefore, it is imperative to adopt science-based agricultural technologies at the national level in order to meet the constantly growing food, fiber, and fodder demands in Pakistan. Modern biotechnology, one of the important developments of present era, has immense potential for improving agricultural productivity. However, coherent policies and clear implementation strategy are needed to adopt agri-biotech.

Dr. Clive James, Founder and Emeritus Chair of ISAAA, authored ISAAA Brief 46. During his video message, he talked about the highlights of the report, including the adoption rate of agri-biotechnology worldwide. DG of environment protection agency in Islamabad, Dr. Khursheed Sawati, talked about biotech regulation in Pakistan.

PABIC director, Prof. M. Iqbal Choudhary made a brief presentation on PABIC activities for the promotion of biotechnology in Pakistan. These activities include distribution of materials on crop biotechnology, meetings with progressive farmers and stakeholders, and media workshops. He added that PABIC also organized essay and poster competitions and internship programs to promote the understanding and appreciation of biotechnology among the youth.

For more information about biotechnology in Pakistan, contact Dr. Sammer Yousuf at dr.sammer.yousuf@gmail.com.