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Rice export
Authorities in Islamabad’s agriculture quarters must take recent concerns raised by Russia regarding a shipment of rice seriously. Though the complaint from Russia regarding violations of phytosanitary protocols is an isolated incident, if not addressed, it can be exploited by rival India. Pakistan’s rice industry is a cornerstone of our agricultural sector, and we must be aware of our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety for our exports.
The potential loss of Russia as a market could severely impact our struggling economy and local farming sector, given our policymakers’ commitment to boosting exports. Despite past bans, our consistent efforts and open communication have helped us overcome challenges. Conducting a thorough investigation to address any shortcomings promptly is crucial. Sharing results with Russian authorities can prevent future disruptions and bolster trust in our exports. Despite scrutiny, Pakistan perseveres, thanks to farmers adopting improved practices prioritizing quality and minimizing contamination risks.
Farmers have also invested heavily in state-of-the-art quality control measures throughout the entire rice production chain. This dedication to excellence is reflected in the growing demand for Pakistani rice in international markets. The basmati variety has a long and shared history of cultivation in our region. Pakistan’s Kissan Basmati is a distinct variety, possessing unique characteristics and is EU-approved for sale. In the coming days, we should prove that Pakistan is a responsible exporter and a key player in the global rice trade.
It should be open to collaborating with all our partners, including Russia, to ensure the safety and quality of our rice exports. The nation believes in fostering strong relationships built on transparency and a shared commitment to upholding the highest standards. Through open communication and a continuous focus on improvement, we are confident that we can maintain mutually beneficial trade relationships with all our partners, solidifying.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Rahul Gandhi, please don’t interfere…
THE Supreme Court has ruled out legalising same-sex marriage, and a letter from the Holy Father to bless same-sex couples was opposed tooth and nail by all sections of the society, especially the Catholics. Now, the Congress manifesto states: “Congress after consultation will bring a law to recognise civil union between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual) community.” Is the Congress trying to appease the LGBT community for votes and in the bargain destroy the respect many had for uniting India and fighting against the forces of darkness? In fact, in the same-sex marriage petition, there are some other parties too that have supported the same. But I am proud to say that there was Sushil Kumar Modi from the ruling BJP who stood and spoke in Parliament against legalising same-sex marriage. I am not supporting all that the ruling BJP party has done and is doing for the country. But there are good people too in every party. The Congress is hurting the religious sentiments of people by supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, as this goes against the teachings of all the divine religions.
I have high respect for Rahul Gandhi walking the length and breadth of India, and I strongly oppose the freezing of his bank account by the ruling BJP. I take this stand not because I am a part of the Congress but because I stand against injustice done to anyone.
Hence, it is not a request to the Congress but a direction that it deletes the aforesaid section from its manifesto. Or else, it will see a friend becoming a foe, and I will strongly oppose the Congress in the coming Lok Sabha elections on this one point.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai
Skills vs
grades
No doubt, students will surely get degrees from universities in various fields. But this piece of paper cannot decide their future until they don’t know what the actual applications of that particular subject are. For this, they must learn new skills along with knowledge. Recent reports show that today’s world is demanding for those employees who are well-skilled rather than having good knowledge.
Unfortunately, nowadays universities are only focused on getting good grades. They are not paying attention to the skills of students and consequently, most of the population is unemployed. So our education institutions should conceive of it and make students realize that whatever they have invested in four years at university has worth and they can also contribute to society.
AIRAF LIAQUAT
Khairpur, Sindh
Box letter
Sale price of roti and nan
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the failure of tandoors in our community. I the resident of Shakrial Rawalpindi to adhere to the government’s decision to decrease the rates of roti and nan. While the government’s initiative to lower the prices of these staple food items is commendable, it is disheartening to observe the lack of compliance among local tandoor owners. Despite the government’s efforts to make essential food items more affordable for citizens, many tandoors in our area continue to sell roti and nan at the same rates as before. This not only defies the government’s decision but also exacerbates the financial burden on already struggling households. The inability to access these basic food items at reduced prices directly impacts the livelihoods of many individuals and families in our community. It is imperative that tandoor owners align their pricing with the government’s directives to ensure equitable access to affordable food for all. Effective measures must be implemented to enforce compliance among tandoor owners, including increased monitoring and penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, there is a need for greater transparency and communication between the government, tandoor owners and consumers to address any challenges or concerns that may arise.
MARYAM UN NISA
Rawalpindi
