National Wheat Policy 2026–30 finalised in consultation with provinces, NA told

Parliamentary secretary says seed authority formed to improve regulation, promote high-yield, climate-resilient crops

The National Assembly was informed on Friday that the National Wheat Policy 2026–30 has been prepared in consultation with the provinces, focusing on a comprehensive roadmap for mechanisation. the establishment of a National Agri Trade and Food Safety Authority to boost exports,Radio Pakistanreported.

During question hour. Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz told the House that the policy would be approved by the Cabinet before the budget.

She said a National Seed Development. Regulatory Authority has already been established to strengthen and modernise the seed sector by improving regulation and promoting high-yielding and climate-resilient crop varieties.

Illegal immigration crackdown

Responding to a calling attention notice. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the government is pursuing a zero-tolerance policy on illegal immigration.

He said. “2,222 people have been offloaded under the E-Exit system.” He added that since 2023, 3,158 agents have been arrested, while action has also been taken against more than 100 FIA officials who were dismissed for involvement in such activities.

He further said the government’s efforts against illegal immigration had been acknowledged by the international community.

On Pakistanis detained in Cambodia, he said several citizens had been repatriated with facilitation, adding, “286 inquiries have been conducted. 111 cases registered” in connection with fraud-related cases.

During the session, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan raised a point of order, protesting the alleged stopping of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. members of the party founder’s family from meeting him.

He said that meetings with the party founder were not being allowed. that his medical treatment was also not being provided. The Deputy Speaker said further points of order would be taken after question hour.

At the start of the session, quorum was pointed out and a headcount was ordered. The House once again lost quorum, and proceedings were suspended until it was restored.

Barrister Gohar said the opposition had “always tried to strengthen the House,” but complained that microphones were switched off. speeches were not aired. He also alleged restrictions on party members and protested the arrest of an MPA from Azad Kashmir.

Journalists’ walkout

Later, journalists staged a walkout from the press gallery over forced layoffs and non-payment of salaries in media organisations. The Parliamentary Reporters Association of Pakistan (PRA) boycotted the session in protest.

PPP leader Shazia Marri said the PRA had also staged a walkout last week, adding that multiple media organisations were facing salary delays. layoffs.

Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the government was working to ensure timely payment of salaries. noted that payments had already been cleared in several organisations.

The National Assembly session was later adjourned indefinitely.

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