_Bridging the gap between research and policy implementation is crucial_*

 

Sajid Mahmood, Head of the Technology Transfer Department at the Central Cotton Research Institute, Multan, emphasized  that the revival of Pakistan’s cotton sector requires the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC) to be reactivated at the national level and lifted out of its current state of paralysis. Despite the presence of over 22 public and private research institutions and more than 1,200 seed companies engaged in cotton research and development, a lack of coordination and a unified strategy has hindered progress, preventing the achievement of desired outcomes. As a result, the country’s cotton production has declined dramatically from 15 million bales to merely 5 million bales. The key challenges contributing to this decline include institutional disconnection, lack of collaboration, dominance of individual interests, and inadequate information exchange.

 

Contrary to the perception that Pakistan lacks research institutions or financial resources for cotton development, Sajid Mahmood asserted that the primary issue lies in the inefficient utilization of existing resources and institutional rivalries that impede progress. The absence of synergy and collaborative efforts among research organizations has severely limited the translation of scientific research into practical applications. Although extensive research reports and policy recommendations exist for cotton sector revival—demonstrating clarity of thought—there remains a significant deficiency in clarity of action. Bridging the gap between research and policy implementation is crucial for reversing the decline in cotton production.

 

He further highlighted that in leading cotton-producing countries such as the United States, Brazil, and India, the textile industry plays an active role in research and development, investing significantly and contributing to policy formulation. In contrast, Pakistan’s textile sector has shown a lack of commitment to supporting the nation’s cotton industry. To restore Pakistan’s position as a leading cotton producer, it is imperative to restructure PCCC into a robust, autonomous, and technologically advanced institution. This requires adequate funding, modernization of research infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of skilled agricultural scientists and experts. Furthermore, all research institutions must operate under a unified, coordinated strategy led by PCCC to translate research into tangible outcomes.

 

Sajid Mahmood stressed the need for a more efficient and decisive approach to policy implementation. He recommended granting full executive authority to PCCC’s Vice President, enabling timely decision-making without administrative bottlenecks. Additionally, he underscored the importance of shifting meetings on cotton sector revival from being mere formalities to actionable strategy sessions, ensuring that resources, time, and energy are utilized effectively. A key step in this direction is the reactivation of the Cotton Crop Management Group, which previously served as an effective platform in Punjab. This group provided representation to qualified professionals and facilitated meaningful discussions on critical issues affecting the cotton sector. Reviving this platform and holding meetings at the Central Cotton Research Institute, Multan, every 15 days—rather than in non-research institutions—will ensure focused, research-driven solutions.

 

He further proposed that in Sindh, the Cotton Crop Management Group should also conduct regular meetings throughout the cotton season to assess production challenges and implement effective, timely solutions. These sessions should prioritize actionable outcomes rather than serving as mere discussion forums. If these institutional and policy reforms are executed effectively, Pakistan’s cotton industry can regain its lost strength, positioning the country once again as a major global cotton producer. Such measures will not only revitalize the agricultural and textile sectors but will also contribute to economic stability, enhance export potential, and safeguard the livelihoods of millions of farmers across the country.