islamabad
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research (NFSR) Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan on Thursday said that top priority of the government was to promote the agriculture research and transfer of technology to benefit the small farmers for food security in the country.
While talking to media on the inauguration ceremony of “Salage Baling Machine” in PARC headquarters, Sikandar Bosan said the use of  latest agricultural technology and innovation will increase farm profitability to the benefit of farmers and will also ensure food security for the country. The ceremony was also attended by Secretary MNFSR Seerat Asghar, Chairman PARC, Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad and other senior agriculture scientist. Bosan also stressed the need to modernize agricultural infrastructure to achieve integrated development of agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.  The minister stated that such an efficient mechanism should be established that ensures the reaching of modern agricultural research results to the doorstep of farmers. He asked that Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) should establish a talent pool of scientists to ensure continuity in agricultural research and transfer of technology.
The Minister said that the government also want to involve the private sector and all four province of the country to enhance the capacity of research in the country.
Replying to question, he said the government is committed to appreciate the researchers and scientist and give them prizes and awards for their performance in the field of agriculture. He added “I talked to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar for the allocation of money to promote the agriculture research in the country who agreed to support in this regard”. Replying to another question,he said that his ministry has provided 60,000 ton wheat to the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) North Waziristan with collaboration of international organizations. Replying to another query regarding the potato price,he said that because of shortage of potatoes the government has exported the potatoes from foreign countries, which are more cheap as compared the local production of potatoes.He urged the media to create awareness among small farmers and common masses for the promotion of agriculture research and development at gross roots level.