Governor Tessori announces major honors for Rahim JanooStaffReporterKarachi: Governor Sindh, Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori lauded Pakistan’s rice exporters for hitting the $4 billion export milestone during the fiscal year 2023-24. The statement was made during the 16th Export Awards Ceremony organized by the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) at the Sindh Governor’s House in Karachi on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

Addressing a gathering of rice exporters and prominent figures from Pakistan’s business community, Governor Tessori praised the exporters’ efforts in reaching this historic target. “This is a remarkable achievement for Pakistan’s rice trade,” he stated, encouraging further growth in the industry. In addition to applauding the industry’s success, the Governor announced the establishment of a dedicated Rice Cell within the Governor’s House, aimed at supporting the rice export sector and resolving its challenges. He expressed his commitment to backing rice exporters and assured the audience that their concerns would be addressed.

During the ceremony, Governor Tessori also recommended Abdul Rahim Janoo for the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s highest civilian honors, for his exceptional social welfare work. Janoo has been organizing free eye camps for underprivileged communities in Pakistan for over 36 years. The Governor revealed that the honor would be formally presented to Janoo on March 23, 2025. Abdul Rahim Janoo, the Convener of the REAP Export Awards Committee, and Chela Ram Kewlani, Chairman of REAP, also addressed the audience.

They highlighted several unresolved issues plaguing the rice export sector, including the long-standing sealing of the Association’s office, which has remained closed for over nine years. Janoo, in particular, urged the authorities to address this issue. In his response, Governor Tessori reaffirmed his support for the sector, ensuring the audience that steps would be taken to alleviate their concerns. The Rice Cell, to be housed within the Governor’s premises, will work closely with exporters to promote further growth and resolve any hurdles they face.

The event culminated in the distribution of Export Awards, where Governor Tessori handed out awards to leading rice exporters, recognizing their contribution to Pakistan’s economy. Gold medals were presented to those who made special contributions to the sector, and the Governor extended his congratulations to all the awardees. As a symbol of REAP’s Silver Jubilee Celebrations, the Governor participated in a cake-cutting ceremony, with Abdul Rahim Janoo, Chela Ram Kewlani, and Haseeb Ali Khan presenting the Governor with a REAP shield in appreciation of his support. The award ceremony was attended by prominent figures from Pakistan’s business landscape, including current and former office bearers of the Rice Exporters Association, Managing Committee members, and REAP members from across Pakistan. Consul Generals from various countries and members of the elite business community were also present.

Published Date: September 10, 2024