Pakistan Agricultural Research Council suspends officers over ‘recruitment irregularities’

Islamabad: The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) has suspended multiple officers amid allegations of misconduct in the organization's recruitment procedures, according to the Ministry of National Food Security and Research. The Ministry informed a Senate committee on Tuesday that an investigation under the Efficiency and Disciplinary Rules is underway.

The committee, chaired by Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan, heard from Senator Poonjo Bheel and Senator Sardar Al Haj Muhammad Umer Gorgaij about the matter's current status as sub judice. The committee expressed alarm over the non-submission of the necessary written response and related documentation pertaining to the alleged recruitment irregularities.

They also addressed the predicament of applicants who had submitted their applications for PARC vacancies but have since crossed the mandatory age limit. The committee proposed the creation of a mechanism to accommodate such candidates in future recruitment drives, even if they surpass the stipulated age limit, to safeguard their rights.

It was emphasized that the provincial quota should be adhered to in all positions, including lower-grade roles. Officials assured the committee that the necessary legal procedures for implementing the provincial quota were already in place and pledged to enforce the quota. The committee was also given updates on the National Oilseed Policy and the escalating import of edible oils.

The federal government is set to implement measures to enhance domestic oilseed cultivation, with a focus on olive farming. Senator Ahsan expressed worry over the obstacles hindering domestic edible oil production and urged the ministry to present a thorough report detailing advancements in the past three years, PSDP projects, olive oil initiatives, and future strategies to augment domestic oilseed production.