In Lahore, Punjab Home Secretary Capt (Rtd) Noor-ul-Amin Mengal reviewed the progress of the Punjab Agriculture, Food and Drug Authority (PAFDA) during a recent session. Key stakeholders and senior officials gathered to discuss the strides made by PAFDA, which remains a flagship project of the Punjab government.
PAFDA was created to boost public health and improve the well-being of the people in Punjab. The authority tackles important issues related to food safety, drug control, and agricultural practices.
Building World-Class Laboratories
The Director General (DG) of PAFDA shared that the organization has made strong progress by setting up laboratories that follow strict Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and ISO 17025 standards. These labs will test food safety and verify the quality of medicines for both human and livestock use. With an investment of Rs16 billion, PAFDA is ready to meet these essential needs, which will enhance public health and protect consumers.
The laboratory building has been handed over to PAFDA. Work is now underway to furnish these labs with modern furniture, IT equipment, and other key infrastructure. The project is scheduled to finish by the end of April 2025.
Strengthening the Team and Infrastructure
PAFDA has filled several key roles in the organization. A headhunting firm is helping to recruit for remaining high-level positions in the food, agriculture, and pharmaceutical sectors. The University of Punjab recently completed the first phase of recruitment tests for 266 positions. The second phase is set for today and tomorrow, after which interviews will start.
The authority is also progressing with procurement. Tenders have been issued for laboratory equipment, office furniture, vehicles, and IT resources. Every effort is made to complete these tasks by the deadlines set by the PAFDA Board, ensuring smooth project progress.
In collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), PAFDA is developing a Lab Information Management System (LIMS). This software will connect new labs with existing ones from the health, agriculture, and food departments under PAFDA’s control.
A Commitment to Transparency and Timely Delivery
The Home Secretary praised PAFDA’s leadership for the work done so far. He stressed that transparency in recruitment and procurement is essential and urged that the labs become operational as soon as possible to benefit the people of Punjab.
In a major step forward, the PAFDA DG thanked the Board for approving an extra Rs5.5 billion in funding for the current financial year. This additional funding will help complete the project on time.
PAFDA’s work to build a strong infrastructure for food safety, drug regulation, and agricultural progress is set to positively impact public health and strengthen Punjab’s economy. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and comments to help shape the future of this key initiative.
