Islamabad – The government of Pakistan has assigned the duties of national food security secretary to an official already holding another portfolio, as efforts to appoint a full-time secretary continue. This move comes amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the leadership of key agricultural bodies as a major international conference approaches.
Leadership Changes at the Ministry
Retired Captain Saif Anjum, currently serving as industries and production secretary, has been given the additional charge of national food security and research secretary. This appointment is effective immediately and will last for three months, or until a permanent secretary is appointed. Amir Mohyuddin, previously the additional secretary of national food security, has been transferred to the Establishment Division.
The Ministry of National Food Security and Research is responsible for policy formulation, economic coordination, and planning related to food grains and agriculture. The current minister is Rana Tanveer Hussain. The ministry is currently working to finalize a national wheat policy, a process that began months ago.
Implications for Agricultural Policy
The appointment of an interim secretary coincides with the completion of wheat sowing for the 2025-26 Rabi season. This leaves the ministry facing the challenge of managing the upcoming crop with a policy still under development. The last full-time national food security secretary, Waseem Amjad Chaudhry, served for nearly a year before being transferred to the parliamentary affairs ministry.
PARC Chairmanship and International Cooperation
The appointment of a full-time chairman for the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) also remains unresolved. A summary for the appointment has been completed and is awaiting submission to the prime minister’s office. Until a permanent chair is appointed, the national food security ministry will continue to manage PARC’s affairs.
Despite these internal challenges, the ministry is preparing to host the Pak-China Agriculture Investment Conference in Islamabad on January 19th. Officials describe the conference as a key opportunity for strengthening agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and China, with the expectation of signing joint ventures and partnership agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the interim appointment?
Retired Captain Saif Anjum’s appointment as national food security secretary is for a period of three months, or until a full-time secretary is appointed.
What is the status of the PARC chairmanship?
A summary for the appointment of a regular PARC chairman has been completed and is awaiting submission to the prime minister’s office.
What is the purpose of the upcoming Pak-China conference?
The Pak-China Agriculture Investment Conference, scheduled for January 19th, is intended to foster cooperation between Pakistan and China and lead to the signing of joint ventures and partnership agreements.
How might ongoing leadership uncertainty impact Pakistan’s ability to capitalize on opportunities presented by international collaborations like the upcoming conference with China?