Innovative cotton strain set to transform industry

A New Hope for Pakistan’s Cotton Sector

Pakistan's cotton sector is witnessing a significant transformation, thanks to the development of a groundbreaking seed variety that promises to nearly triple per-acre yields and withstand extreme heat. This innovation has sparked renewed optimism for reviving the country's struggling textile industry, which has long been a cornerstone of the economy.

The new seed, named CEMB-33, is the result of 25 years of dedicated research by the Centre for Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB) at Punjab University, in collaboration with a private agri-research company. It marks a major milestone as it is the first genetically modified cotton seed developed entirely within Pakistan.

Field trials conducted in southern Punjab districts such as Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, and Vehari have shown impressive results. The CEMB-33 variety recorded yields of 40-45 maunds per acre, significantly higher than the national average of 15 maunds. These findings suggest that this seed could be a game-changer for farmers who have struggled with declining production due to factors like early boll drop, flower shedding, and pest attacks exacerbated by climate change.

One of the key features of CEMB-33 is its ability to maintain strong boll retention even in temperatures exceeding 47°C. It also produces 10-15 percent more yield compared to conventional seeds and offers better fiber length and uniformity. Agricultural experts believe these advantages could mark a turning point for cotton farmers across the country.

Cotton cultivation spans 15-18 districts in Sindh and Punjab, making it a vital component of Pakistan's economy. It contributes nearly 1% to the GDP and over 50% of export earnings through the textile sector. With the introduction of CEMB-33, there is hope that the sector can regain its former strength and resilience.

Engr Javaid Saleem Qureshi, Chairman of the Private Agri Research Company, highlighted that CEMB-33 incorporates advanced Bt gene technology. This makes the seed resistant to bollworms, tolerant of extreme heat, and immune to the Cotton Leaf Curl Virus (CLCuV). He also noted that the variety could reduce Pakistan's dependence on imported Bt seeds, which has been a longstanding challenge for the sector.

Dr Kausar Abdullah Malik, Founding Director of the National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetics Engineering in Faisalabad, emphasized the capabilities of institutions like NIAB, NIBGE, and CEMB in developing climate-resilient varieties of cotton, wheat, and other crops. He pointed out that Pakistan's average temperature has already increased by about 1.5°C, with cotton and wheat being the most affected. Developing crops that can survive heat and drought is now essential for ensuring food and fiber security.

Dr Malik, who also leads the federal consultative group on biotechnology, mentioned that the group is currently revising national biosafety guidelines to facilitate the commercialization of locally developed GM seeds like CEMB-33. This step is crucial for enabling the widespread adoption of such innovations and supporting the agricultural sector.

Analysts believe that the commercial rollout of CEMB-33 could restore farmers' confidence in cotton cultivation. It may also help reduce the country's reliance on imported fiber and strengthen Pakistan's most vital export industry. With the right support and policies, the potential of this new seed could be fully realized, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for the cotton sector.