Government to digitalize pesticide registration: Rana

By Adnan Rafique

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security, Rana Tanveer Hussain said here on Sunday that the government would formulate a comprehensive strategy to improve the fumigation system. The strategy included enhancing the number of fumigation companies and digitalizing the registration system of pesticides to streamline the processes, the minister said during a meeting with Plant Protection Department (PPD).
The minister underlined the role of Plant Protection Department in the development of agriculture sector adding that efforts would be made to further improve its performance and bring it up to high standards and ensure its operations meet top quality benchmarks, according to press release issued by the ministry. The minister said that PPD would be developed on modern lines to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness and all resources would be utilized to address staff shortages within the department. “We have a strong commitment to promote merit and transparency within the department. Corruption and inefficiency will not be tolerated in any form within the department,” he remarked and added the system will be digitalized to ensure transparency in operations. Tanveer highlighted the importance of establishing effective system for the inspection of rice and mango plants for timely examination to ensure quality production.