NA informed about achievements of PARC

ISLAMABAD (APP) - The National Assembly was informed on Wednesday that Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) has developed ten hybrids of maize, sunflower, canola and fodder to increase production of these crops.

Parliamentary Secretary for National Food Security and Research Rajab Ali Baloch told the House during question hour that efforts are underway to develop rice and cotton hybrids.

He said benefits of these hybrids depend on the volume of investments.

To a question, Rajab Ali Baloch said National Agricultural Research Centre has developed a bio-radiation model for wastewater treatment for irrigation. He pointed out this technology reduces water related and water borne crop diseases and damages to national bio-diversity.

Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Shahid Khaqan Abbasi told the House that the government is trying hard to make the recovery of electricity bills from consumers.

Answering a question, the Minister said Ministry of Water and Power is sponsoring a number of water sector development projects pertaining to small dams.

He said so far about 30 small dams have been built in different provinces.

Parliamentary Secretary for Industries and Production Rao Ajmal said during the last two years Pakistan Steel has suffered losses due to interrupted supply chain of raw material and insufficient fund position. He said at present Pakistan Steel is closed due to non-supply of gas. He hoped that gas supply will be restored next month.