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8 INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR COTTON
8.1 It must be recognized that there is a very big lack log of basic research
in the developing
countries. Those who march with the time and make the necessary accommodation to
the
introduction of new technology will meet with success.
8.2 Western nation like USA, Europe, Australia etc where least number of people
work
on farm have mountains of surpluses. This was well documented by Lord Hamilton,
Secretary
of State for India.
| “We must try to vary the
occupations of the people, for, as long as 80% of the population is
engaged in agriculture the danger in the recurrence (of famine) is
all the greater”. |
8.3 A very serious and narrow focus attention must be paid to enhancing efforts
on cotton
research.
8.4 International research on wheat, maize etc have CIMMYT in Mexico. Rice has
IRRI
in Philippines. Cotton is conspicuous by its absence on the international
research arena. Cotton does have ICAC but it is not a research organization.
8.5 During a Plenary meeting of ICAC this question was raised. Most of the
western
countries were against the idea. They were of the opinion that this was one more
money begging idea and totd the gathering that they had no funds to spare.
8.6 This idea was submitted to M1NFAL by PCCC elaborating that perhaps
Pakistan
could
contribute Multan Institute, as a possible centre for international research. It
was suggested that
collaboration could be solicited from UNDP, FAO, World Bank, Ford Foundation and
third
world cotton producing countries.
8.7 Perhaps it is time to revive this idea again. PCCC’s General Body may be
the best
forum for deliberations on the subject.
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