Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain chaired a high-level meeting at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) to review research progress. Hussain examined the research achievements from Kharif 2026 and the upcoming plans for the Rabi 2026–27 season.
During the session, the minister ordered scientists to speed up the creation of local basmati rice varieties. The Agricultural Engineering Institute received instructions to focus on bringing locally developed machinery to the commercial market.
Livestock researchers were told to prioritise the production of vaccines to combat major animal diseases. Hussain also urged the promotion of high-value fruit crops, specifically mentioning blueberry and avocado.
Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi, Chairman PARC, briefed the minister on institutional initiatives and the Council's research programs. Six crop varieties received approval during Kharif 2026, with more than 265 tonnes of quality seed produced.
The meeting also highlighted the establishment of Pakistan’s first high-tech beeswax sheet production unit. Rana Tanveer Hussain inaugurated a 10-acre Regenerative Agriculture Block at NARC to promote sustainable farming and restore soil health.
