STAFF REPORT FSD: Lack of availability of quality and certified seed is the major constraints to increase agricultural productivity. The public and private sectors joint efforts can bring the country out of the crisis of certified seed shortage.

“Pakistan is importing hybrid seed of maize, rice, potatoes and other vegetables worth billions of rupees that could be saved by strengthening seed industry and farmers co-operatives,” said University of Agriculture Faisalabad Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Iqrar Ahmad while addressing a workshop on “Capacity building in seed technology”.

He said the use of certified seeds in various crops stands at only 20 percent. The rest of farming community is depending upon non-certified seed.

He said the University has set up a Seed Centre for conducting the valuable researches that will help in increasing the per acre production. He said the UAF is in the process of launching of seed sciences degree programme.

Dr Shakeel Ahmad Khan, Director General Federal Seed Certification and Registration, said newly established Pakistan Seed Academy will strengthen the public-private partnership in seed innovations. He said this academy is meant to develop human resource in the field of seed technology.

Dean Faculty of Agriculture, UAF, Prof. Dr Arshad said inferior quality seed cannot bear the required fruits. He called for taking steps to ensure the quality seed in the field so that agricultural productivity can be boosted up manifold.

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