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Summary Experts say that cotton production can be increased by 62.5 % by developing seed industry.
The country’s cotton production can be increased by 62.5 % by developing seed industry, controlling weeds and pests and adopting improved crop management techniques, sources say.According to experts, the Punjab Cotton Control Ordinance 1966 amended up to 2002, further needs to be amended to provide mandatory marking of cotton grade, staple length on each cotton bale for the improvement of the standard and quality of cotton.The government keeping in view the international quality standards may introduce HVI testing and marking system on the cotton bales so as to be able to compete in international market.The government may revise the Agricultural pesticides Rules 1973 to give powers to the Inspector to seal the store of pesticides with the pesticide companies or dealers.In this regard cotton commissioner Dr Khalid said that seed legislation is pending from last ten years therefore industry is suffering a lot. He said that state of art and latest technology should be adopted to complete the requirements of the country.He said that Seed Act 1976 and Seed (Amended) Act 2005 be made more effective and the rules may be amended and the extension staff of Agriculture Department may also be empowered under Seed Act to regulate effectively the sale of approved quality seed.Dr Khalid also pointed out the shortage of manpower and said that our seed industry has not sufficient manpower to handle demand of seeds therefore illegal and substandard seeds are sold in the market.
