Islamabad:
The Senate Science and Technology Committee at a meeting held on Thursday emphasized the importance of strengthening Pakistan’s scientific institutions and addressing public health concerns linked to certain consumer products.
One of the key discussion points was the National Science and Technology Commission (NCST), established in 1984, which has been fulfilled only three times since its training, with the last meeting held in 2001. The Committee indicated the need to activate the Commission and ensure that its legal responsibilities are effectively fulfilled. It was stressed that, although the PCST acts as the NCST Secretariat, challenges such as delayed appointments and resources limitations have limited progress.
Concerns were raised about the health risks raised by some “bleaching tea” products marketed as milk alternatives. The authorities recognized these concerns and agreed to the need for a more strict application of quality standards, together with awareness and regulatory actions campaigns when necessary.
