Experts at a workshop on 'Support to Fisheries Sector Policy and Strategy Formulation' on Friday (June 9) underlined the need to improve the diet of the country's common man, for having very low protein intake as compared to the required standard.
They pointed out the need to promote fish consumption, inexpensive availability of the commodity to make it within the purchasable range of the common man, as fish is a vital source of protein.
"Although Pakistan is making concerted efforts for the improvement of fisheries and aquaculture in the country, but strategic issues like environment pollution and destruction of habitat need special attention during policy formulation," Punjab Fisheries and Wildlife Secretary Iqbal Ahmad told the workshop participants.
He said the present situation also necessitates appropriate measures including conservation of endangered fish species, not only to save the biodiversity, but also to increase fish production in the country.
The Secretary expressed hope that a viable policy would be framed for the development of fisheries and aquaculture in the country.
Earlier, Mohammad Ali, FAO Country Representative informed the participants that the Government of Pakistan was giving highest priority to the development of fisheries sector within the framework of Poverty Reduction Strategy.
However, he emphasised the need for a coherent and comprehensive development strategy for the development of fisheries sector to realise its full potential.
Dr Mohammad Ayub, Director-General Fisheries, Punjab, who is also the chairman Task Force on Inland Fisheries Policy Formulation in Pakistan, gave a briefing about the salient features of fisheries development in the country and suggested future policy intervention to enhance growth of cheap quality fish for domestic consumption and export.
The two-day workshop was jointly organised by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock and UN Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO). The Department of Fisheries, Punjab played the role of external facilitator for the two-day workshop.