Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali leads approval of 10 pulse varieties

In a significant development for agriculture in Pakistan, the Variety Evaluation Committee, led by Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Chairman of the Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC), has given the green light to 10 new high-yielding pulses varieties. These varieties are crucial for enhancing pulse production in the country, which plays a vital role in global food security and nutrition. Pakistan's annual requirement for pulses stands at 1.56 million tons, making this approval a crucial step towards meeting the demand.

One notable achievement highlighted by Dr. Ali is the attainment of self-sufficiency in mung bean production during the 2021-22 period, surpassing the required quantity. This success sets a positive precedent for the country's pulse production sector.

The approved varieties, which include chickpea, lentil, and mash bean, are poised to bring about a revolution in pulse output. The focus now shifts towards increasing the production of other pulse crops to further strengthen the agricultural landscape of Pakistan. This milestone has been made possible through unwavering support from initiatives such as the Pulses Project 'Promoting Research for Productivity Enhancement in Pulses' and the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP).

Dr. Ali stressed the significance of high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties in driving pulse productivity. He called upon all pulse scientists to prioritize enhancing seed production to bridge the gap between production and demand. Collaboration between researchers and extension workers is deemed essential for scaling up seed production nationwide.

The approval of 10 high-yielding pulses varieties marks a crucial advancement in Pakistan's agricultural sector. With a focus on boosting pulse production and ensuring food security, this decision sets the stage for a more sustainable and productive future. The efforts of researchers, policymakers, and agricultural experts are pivotal in driving this positive change, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration in meeting the country's agricultural needs.