Speakers at a workshop have stressed the need to embrace modern innovations for greater resilience. They called for reduced environmental impacts and higher yields to ensure food security for a growing population.
Referring to the prevailing scenario, they say that traditional crop production methods are unable to meet the demands of a growing population and a shifting climate.
By embracing technological advances, Pakistan can secure its agricultural future, safeguard the health of its people and environment. And unlock new opportunities for economic growth and food security.
CropLife Pakistan:
CropLife Pakistan and the Agriculture Journalists Association arranged the workshop titled “Tools of Modern Agriculture” in Murree. Siang Hee Tan, Executive Director CropLife Asia, Rashid Ahmad, Executive Director CropLife Pakistan shared their views. Muhammad Asim, Biotech Seed Committee Lead, Muhammad Shoaib, corporate farmer, Dr Zafar Hayat also spoke. They responded to the queries of journalists from Lahore and Islamabad.
Experts shared their thoughts on realities and myths associated with Genetically Modified (GM) Maize. Some believe GM crops are unsafe for health or the environment, while others suspect they benefit only large farmers.
However, scientific consensus suggests otherwise. GM maize offers enhanced yield, better resistance to pests such as stem borers and fall armyworm, and improved tolerance to drought and salinity—traits especially crucial for Pakistan’s agro-ecological context.
They believe that Pakistan’s biotech policy is critical for the responsible adoption of new crop technologies. Presently, the country’s regulatory system involves agencies such as the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) and the National Biosafety Committee (NBC).
They stressed the need for transparent, science-based, and timely approval processes for biotech crops, which will foster innovation and investor confidence. They believe that open dialogue among scientists, farmers, and civil society will help dispel misinformation and promote informed decision-making.
Pakistan can benefit from partnerships with countries experienced in GM crop regulation and adoption, gaining access to global expertise and germplasm resources.
Modern approaches favour biopesticides—natural or biologically derived agents—offering safer and more sustainable pest management solutions. The benefits of biopesticides are environmental safety, targeted action, pest resistance management and reduced chemical residues in food and the environment.
Traditional plant breeding is a lengthy and uncertain process. Recent breakthroughs in gene editing empower scientists to make precise, targeted changes to crop genomes. Gene editing enables the development of new crop varieties within years rather than decades, with highly specific trait improvements. Through gene editing, multiple beneficial traits like drought tolerance, pest resistance, and enhanced nutrition can be combined efficiently.
