Speaking at an international conference on biosciences at Allama Iqbal Open University in Islamabad, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized the central role of biosciences in ensuring food security, public health and environmental sustainability across Pakistan.
The minister said biosciences investment is the backbone of sustainable development, directly linked to food supply, human health and ecological balance. He warned that rising population, climate change and constrained resources have turned food security into one of Pakistan’s most pressing challenges and called for sustained funding in research and innovation.
Recalling regional shifts in agricultural performance, Rana Tanveer Hussain noted that a time came when India struggled with famine while Pakistan produced surpluses, but now India has overtaken Pakistan in many areas. This comparison underlined his appeal for immediate and continuous commitment to research, modern technology and agritech to improve productivity and resilience in Pakistani agriculture.
The minister praised Allama Iqbal Open University for advancing research and education to meet contemporary needs and commended Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood for the university’s achievements in innovation and social responsibility. He highlighted the university’s fee waiver for flood-affected students as a notable example of institutional support for vulnerable communities.
Rana Tanveer Hussain urged stronger collaboration between research institutes, universities, industry and policymakers to find practical solutions to food security and environmental challenges. He stressed that Pakistan must prioritise biosciences investment, research and innovation to build a self-reliant and sustainable future for its agricultural sector and national well being.
