By Qudsia Bano ISLAMABAD, May 30 (INP-WealthPK): The development of the dairy sector is critical not only for agricultural economy of Pakistan, but also for the wellbeing of the people. Pakistan can improve the supply of locally produced dairy products, as just 5% of total milk stock is currently processed. Increased production of value-added dairy products can help alleviate seasonal milk shortages by increasing the volume of milk channeled through the formal supply chain, reducing wastage and adulteration, and increasing the production of powdered milk. Consumers in Pakistan will get safer and more nutritious milk and dairy products if the formal dairy sector is encouraged to convert more milk into value-added products. The official dairy industry is also well positioned to lessen the environmental impact of dairy production, which is receiving a lot of attention these days. Federal Minister of National Food Security and Research Tariq Bashir Cheema met with a delegation including Dr. Shehzad Amin, CEO of Pakistan Dairy Association (PDA), and Hamza Hashim Rasul, Head of Corporate Affairs Division of Engro Pakistan Limited, to discuss the modernization of the dairy sector in Pakistan. Tariq Bashir Cheema stated that the dairy industry holds tremendous potential. The dairy business, according to the minister, needs to be handled positively so that it can thrive in Pakistan. The minister said dairy business has a great potential to support farmers and the food processing industry. According to Tariq Bashir Cheema, every industry faces obstacles, and the government will take proactive steps to address the issues in the regulation and expansion of the dairy industry. The minister assured the delegation his full support and cooperation in promotion of dairy sector. The delegation informed the minister about farmer training, farm development programs, and scholarships offered by the PDA to help farmers boost their potential. The minister said all parties are committed to working together to develop and implement initiatives to promote milk industry's growth and safety standards. The official dairy sector is also in a better position to reduce the environmental impact of dairy production. Using whole milk powder (WMP) or skimmed milk powder (SMP) to safely reconstitute milk to combat seasonal shortages and the sale of tainted milk, is one of the most efficient methods to overcome problems in the dairy sector. The WMP and SMP are regarded acceptable for human consumption as constituents in such milk are suitable for long-term transportation and storage. Because of climatic and geographical constraints, many countries cannot sustain big cattle herds, and WMP and SMP are the only feasible sources of milk. Butter, cheese, whey, yogurt, ice cream, and other value-added dairy products cannot be made with tainted milk. Better milk production and processing will reduce the country's import expenditure for value-added dairy goods like milk powder and cheese, and also create jobs.