SAU moot urges science-led revival of Pakistan’s cotton sector

HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Apr, 2026) A two-day international conference on cotton, organized by Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, in collaboration with the Higher education Commission (HEC), concluded with a strong call from national and international experts, policymakers and seed industry representatives for a coordinated, science-driven and long-term strategy to revive Pakistan’s declining cotton sector.

The conference, titled “Cotton Seed Production and Development: Issues and Solutions,” underscored the need to improve seed quality, enforce an effective regulatory framework and strengthen research to enhance productivity and sustainability. The recommendations were presented during the concluding session held on Wednesday.

Secretary of the conference, Prof Dr Shahnawaz Mari presented the recommendations and highlighted that while developed countries achieve seed germination rates exceeding 95 per cent, Pakistan’s cotton seed germination remains between 40 and 50 per cent, underscoring the urgent need for structural reforms.

Participants emphasized the development of high-yielding cotton varieties resistant to pests, diseases and climatic stresses, along with promoting early sowing and short-duration crops. They also called for a comprehensive market policy to ensure stable demand, fair pricing and economic security for farmers.

The conference recommended a scientific assessment of the causes behind declining cotton acreage, promotion and registration of improved seed varieties, and registration of progressive farmers through the Federal Seed Certification and Registration Department (FSC&RD) to enhance the production of quality commercial seed.

Experts further stressed the transition towards multi-gene cotton varieties, supported by strong institutional frameworks and effective regulatory mechanisms.

Addressing the closing session, SAU Vice Chancellor Engr Dr Altaf Ali Siyal said that reviving the cotton sector was not only an agricultural priority but a national economic imperative, achievable through collective scientific efforts.

He noted that advances in plant breeding, from single and double gene to triple and now four gene cotton must be backed by robust institutional support and regulatory systems. He added that challenges such as climate change, water scarcity and evolving pest dynamics required integrated and adaptive strategies rather than isolated interventions.

Reaffirming the university’s commitment, Dr Siyal said SAU would continue to work with all stakeholders to promote research, innovation and partnerships aimed at cotton sector revival.

Guest of honor Prof Dr Riffat Ahmed of the University of Karachi stressed the need to restore cotton’s prominence for national economic growth, noting that revival of the crop would also strengthen the textile sector. She urged the government to incorporate the conference recommendations into policy and collaborate with national and international institutions to address seed-related challenges.

Speakers, including Principal Organizer Dr Wajid Ali Jatoi and Co-organizer Dr Shabana Memon highlighted cotton’s role in rural development, particularly in supporting women’s participation in agriculture and improving household incomes.

The conference concluded with a consensus that Pakistan could regain its position in the global cotton market through coordinated scientific efforts and effective policy measures.

At the closing ceremony, shields and certificates were distributed among guests, participants, private companies and organizers, while winners of poster competitions and best stall exhibitors were also awarded recognition.