Pakistan Agricultural Research Council suspends officers over ‘recruitment irregularities’

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) suspended multiple officers on Tuesday amid accusations of irregularities within the organization's recruitment procedures, according to senior officials from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research. During a Senate Standing Committee meeting chaired by Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan, concerns were raised over the officers' alleged involvement in recruitment irregularities, with an inquiry under the Efficiency and Disciplinary Rules already underway.

The committee expressed worry over the failure to submit the necessary written reply and relevant documentation pertaining to the recruitment irregularities. Members also addressed the predicament of candidates who had applied for PARC vacancies but were now nearing the upper age limit. A recommendation was made to establish a mechanism allowing these candidates to participate in future PARC recruitment drives, even if they surpass the specified age limit, to safeguard their interests.

The committee emphasized the importance of enforcing the provincial quota in all positions, including lower-grade roles. Officials confirmed that the required codal formalities for implementing the provincial quota had been finalized, assuring the committee that the quota would be enforced. Additionally, the committee received an update on the National Oilseed Policy and the country's rising edible oil import bill.

Officials revealed that the federal government had plans to increase domestic oilseed production, with a focus on olive cultivation.

Senator Ahsan expressed concern over the challenges faced by domestic edible oil production and requested practical steps to stimulate local output. He instructed the ministry to deliver a detailed report on the progress made over the past three years, including PSDP projects, initiatives related to olive oil production, and future strategies to boost domestic oilseed production.