ISLAMABAD, Oct 23 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday approved the restructuring of the Livestock and Dairy Development Board and directed that the selection of its chairman and members be carried out transparently and strictly on merit. The prime minister chairing a review meeting on reforms in the livestock sector, said the board should be made an effective and active institution by inducting capable and experienced professionals from the …
PM Shehbaz orders merit-based overhaul of livestock board, time-bound plan to eradicate foot-and-mouth disease
ISLAMABAD, Oct 23 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday approved the restructuring of the Livestock and Dairy Development Board and directed that the selection of its chairman and members be carried out transparently and strictly on merit.
The prime minister chairing a review meeting on reforms in the livestock sector, said the board should be made an effective and active institution by inducting capable and experienced professionals from the private sector, a Prime Minister’s Office news release said.
The prime minister directed the authorities concerned to present a comprehensive action plan for the complete eradication of foot-and-mouth disease, with clear targets, measurable results and a fixed timeframe.
He announced that the federal government was establishing a plant in Islamabad for the production of modern and effective livestock vaccines, using its own resources.
The prime minister also directed that world-class consultants be engaged for the development of the livestock and dairy sector, and that the experiences of countries with expertise in the field be drawn upon. He called for partnerships with such countries to be promoted.
Noting that Pakistan possessed vast potential in the livestock sector, the prime minister stressed that it should be harnessed for exports and economic growth. He said improvements in animal health, breeding, production and the value chain would help the country fully realise its export potential, while also boosting the rural economy and creating employment opportunities.
The meeting was given a briefing on the restructuring of the board, animal disease surveillance, vaccination, animal identification and traceability, and measures to increase exports of meat and dairy products.
Federal ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Dr Musadik Malik and Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior officials of the departments concerned attended the meeting.
