Introduction:
The National Seminar on World Milk Day, organized by the National Alliance for Safe Food (NAFS), brought together key stakeholders from the dairy industry, academia, and government to discuss the significance of milk in addressing malnutrition and promoting public health in Pakistan. The event aimed to raise awareness about the critical role of milk in the diet and to explore the challenges and opportunities within the dairy sector.
Inaugural & Technical Session:
- Recitation & National Anthem: The seminar began with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Dr. Hafiz Rehan Nadeem, followed by the National Anthem.
- Welcome Note: Mr. Rana Awais Khan, Chairman of NAFS, welcomed the guests, emphasizing the importance of safe milk in achieving national health goals.
- Keynote Address: Mr. Syed Mazhar Iqbal, Chairman of the Pakistan Dairy Association and CEO of Haleeb Foods Limited, delivered the keynote, focusing on the current state of the dairy industry and the role it plays in addressing malnutrition.
- Academic Perspective: Prof. Dr. Nasim Ahmed, Vice Chancellor of the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, highlighted the role of academia in combating malnutrition through research and education.
Address by Industry and Government Representatives:
- Director General Punjab Food Authority, Mr. Shoaib Khan Jadoon, discussed regulatory measures for ensuring milk safety in Punjab.
- Mr. Sardar Fahad Khan, Advisor to the KPK Livestock Farmers Welfare Association, presented on the inclusive approach required for safe milk production.
- Prof. Dr. Talat Naseer Pasha, Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, elaborated on the positive impact of school milk programs on children’s health.
- Mr. Akhtar A. Bughio, Director General of Pakistan Halal Authority, and Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Member of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab, also shared insights on Halal standards and legislative support for milk safety initiatives.
Chief Guest Address:
The Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab, Mr. Hamza Shahbaz, delivered the chief guest address, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving the dairy sector and ensuring the provision of safe milk to all citizens. He acknowledged the efforts of NAFS and other stakeholders in driving this important agenda.
Panel Discussion:
Title: Safe Milk-Safe Nation; Dairy Industry Perspective
Panelists: Included notable figures such as Dr. Muhammad Nasir from FrieslandCampina Engro Pvt. Ltd., Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora (MPA), and representatives from PCSIR Lahore and Punjab University. The discussion focused on industry challenges, safety standards, and the future of the dairy sector in Pakistan.
Consultative Session:
Title: Innovations in Dairy Industry; Issues, Challenges, and Solutions
Speakers: Dr. Hafiz Rehan Nadeem (Secretary General, NAFS) and Ms. Kanza Najeen (Lab Head, SGS) led a session exploring technological advancements, regulatory hurdles, and potential solutions to enhance dairy industry practices. Discussions centered on innovations in milk processing, quality control, and sustainability.
Closing Session:
- Q&A Session: An interactive session where attendees posed questions to the panel, leading to a lively discussion on actionable steps to improve milk safety.
- Vote of Thanks: Mr. Rana Awais Khan concluded the seminar with a vote of thanks, appreciating the participation of all speakers and attendees, and reinforcing NAFS’s commitment to continuing its efforts towards a safer and healthier nation through improved dairy practices.
Outcome: The seminar concluded with actionable recommendations, including the need for stronger regulatory frameworks, greater public awareness campaigns, and enhanced collaboration between government, industry, and academia to ensure the safety and quality of milk in Pakistan.
Group Photo & Lunch: The event ended with a group photo of all participants, followed by a networking lunch.
