The prime minister orders merit-based appointments, a nationwide foot-and-mouth disease eradication plan and the establishment of a livestock vaccine production plant in Islamabad.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday approved the restructuring of the Livestock and Dairy Development Board, directing that the appointment of its chairman and members be conducted transparently and strictly on merit.

Chairing a review meeting on livestock sector reforms, the prime minister called for the induction of capable and experienced private-sector professionals to transform the board into an effective institution, according to a Prime Minister’s Office press release.

He directed the relevant authorities to prepare a comprehensive action plan for the complete eradication of foot-and-mouth disease, with clear targets, measurable outcomes and a defined timeframe.

Shehbaz also announced that the federal government would establish a plant in Islamabad to manufacture modern livestock vaccines using its own resources.

He further instructed officials to engage world-class consultants to support the development of Pakistan’s livestock and dairy sector and promote partnerships with countries possessing expertise in the field.

Highlighting Pakistan’s considerable livestock potential, the prime minister stressed the need to harness the sector to increase exports, support economic growth and strengthen rural livelihoods.

He said improvements in animal health, breeding, production and value chains could help the country expand its export capacity while creating employment opportunities.

The meeting received a briefing on the board’s restructuring, animal disease surveillance, vaccination programmes, animal identification and traceability, and initiatives to increase meat and dairy exports.

Federal ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Dr Musadik Malik and Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior government officials attended the meeting.