(central secretariat) subject: monthly major activity … monthly...o six member team of fauji...

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No.F.1-3/2013-Dir(Tech)-CS Pakistan Agricultural Research Council

(Central Secretariat) ********

13th January 2015 Subject: Monthly Major Activity Report of PARC for December 2014 Chairman’s Activities

i. The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research (NFSR) led by its Chairman Malik Shakir Bashir Awan, MNA visited Southern-zone Agricultural Research Centre (SARC) of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) located at Karachi University Campus, Karachi during their visit to Sindh Province. On this occasion, Dr. Mubarik Ahmad, Director General (SARC) gave a detailed overview of SARC objectives, R&D scope which include quality testing of grains and other agricultural produce for import and export, pesticides, and animal / poultry feed for domestic use; screening of wheat varieties against rust under most conducive environment and development and propagation of new sugarcane varieties; rodent control in civic bodies including ports and health institutes; arid and coastal agriculture and field application of research results / technologies in Sindh and Balochistan; and teaching and research support to University of Karachi and collaboration with various educational and national and international agricultural research institutions.

ii. Government of Pakistan paid special tributes to Dr. Norman E Borlaug by issuance of postage stamps on 22nd December. A ceremony for Launching the Commemorative Postage was held at NARC in which Federal Minister, Chairman of the NA Standing Committee on NFS&R, Secretary, MNFS&R also participated and paid rich tributes to a special person who is known as “Father of Green Revolution” at this occasion

iii. PARC organized a day-long workshop on Enhancing Understanding and Implementation of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) at National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) Islamabad with the aim at strengthening relationship among PGR stakeholders, improving awareness, sharing views about the treaty and discussing the incentives enshrined therein.

iv. On 16th December PARC and IFPRI’s PSSP jointly organized Conference on Resilience for Agricultural Growth, Nutrition, Food Security and Rural Development in Pakistan. Federal Minister for Planning and Development. Secretary, MNFS&R Mr. Seerat Ashgar; FAO Representative in Pakistan; Representatives of the International Organizations; Representatives of the NGOs, Distinguished Guests and dignitaries also participated in this event. In the conference, it was emphasized that Ministry of National Food Security and Research is in the process of finalizing her federal agricultural and food security policy with provincial partnership. Ensuring the increased and sustained supply of food commodities, to all the citizen is the corner stone of this policy.

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Plant Sciences Division

S.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of the task

1. Research & Development

1.1 Southern-zone Agricultural Research Centre (SARC), Karachi

Evaluation/Screening of National Wheat Germplasm 2014-15 against wheat rusts and epidemiological studies of wheat rusts: National Wheat Diseases Screening Nursery (NWDSN) comprising 468 lines 7 sets, National Uniform Wheat Yield Trial (NUWYT) 40 lines 7 sets, Commercial cultivars 110 lines, 6th International Leaf Rust Trap Nursery (ICARDA) comprising 85 lines 4 sets, 10th International Stem Rust Trap Nursery (ICARDA) 85 entries 4 sets, 9th International Stem Rust Trap Nursery 85 entries, 5th International Leaf Rust Trap Nursery 85 entries, 50 lines/entries from Regional Research Institute, Bahawalpur, Pak-CIMMYT Nursery 2015 435 entries and SAARC Countries Nursery comprising 20 entries were received from CDRI, NARC, Islamabad, RARI Bahwalpur and CIMMYT Office NARC Islamabad. The aforesaid germplasm will be planted at CDRI Karachi, NIA Tandojam, WRI Sakrand, Farmer field Thatta, Farmer field Kunri, Distt. Umerkot, Farmer field Badin, Distt. Badin and Farmer field Ghotki, Distt. Ghotki in connection to evaluate the resistant potential of advanced breeding material and promising lines against leaf rust and stem rust under natural and artificial conditions and to monitor the effectiveness of resistant genes of leaf rust and stem rust during crop season 2014-15.

Comparative toxicity of crude extract of plants and synthetic insecticides against rice weevil Sitophilus oryzae: Laboratory bioassays were carried out to determine the toxicity of crude extracts of leaves in water and ethanol (1:1) of Indian beer (Ziziphus maritiana Lam), Safaida (Eucalyptus globules), (Lantana camara) Allium stivum and Alovera sp. collected from Karachi university campus field.

Resistance against Fenitrothion in Tribolium Castanium: From Punjab 18 strains were collected from Mughalpura, PASSCO Manga Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad and Nanakana Sahab 4,4,3,3,4 respectively out of which strains collected from Faislabad and Nankana Sahab did not show any sign of resistance whereas strains collected from Punjab food, PASSCO and Mughal Pura Lahore showed varied response and included susceptible, low and high resistant strains. The resistance factor in these ranged between 0 and 14.4 fold.

Analysis of sample for Aflatoxin: Commercial commodities samples were tested for the presence of aflatoxin contamination. In 20 samples of Wheat Aflatoxin range (ppb) from 0-2.9, in 4 samples of Rice from 0.2-1.4 and in 2 samples of Chilies from 0.6-1.0 respectively.

Bread Fruit: In the IPI approximately 300 plants of Bread Fruit were planted and growing well in shed. The average plant height 4.22 cm. number of leaves 16.3 length of leaves 45.02 and number of branches 1.98 was recorded. Recommended dose of the Curacron 500 ml EC and Diathen-45 was applied to control the mealy bug, white fly etc.

Rodent and Bird Contamination: During survey of experimental field of wheat crop grown at Karachi University revealed the presence of Indian gerbil, Tatera indica and Wild hare, Lepus nigrocullus. To knock down, pest population, Zinc

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Phosphide pellets (2.5%) were applied followed by brodifacoum anticoagulant bait (0.005%) to get rid of pest infestation.

1.2 National Sugar Crops & Tropical Horticulture Research Institute (NSTHRI), Thatta:

Total 189 sugarcane genotypes were maintained at the farm for flowering and fuzz collection studies from which 52 genotypes initiated booting & 41 genotypes flowered.

Plastic mulching evaluation trial is ongoing. Average cane height observed 280 cm & 270.7 cm with average brix contents of 22.9% & 22.2% were recorded in treatment and control plots, respectively. Also conducted a new Plastic mulching evaluation trial at Palijo farm Makli, for demonstration purposes. Where Sugarcane variety BL-4 is sown under trial.

Quality analysis activity in the Lab: Analysis of sugarcane genotypes sown in different trials was caring out and percentage of Fiber, Brix, Pol, Purity and CCS was recorded. The CCS ranges from 10-14% in different genotypes.

Insect Pest Infestation: Whitefly infestation observed in different sugarcane varieties was recorded in percentage as 4, 4.7, 5.3, 6.7, 8, 10, 12.7,13.3, 13.7 & 15.7 in CP-69-120/4, S-2003-US-637/234, HoTh-318, NARC-2, CP-TJ-349, S-2005-CSSG-32, S-2006-SPSG-24, BPTH-804, S- 2005-HOSG-3, & YT-53 respectively.

Planting of Sweet Corn Variety: Sweet Corn variety Ohisma-88 was planted at Makli farm, Thatta. Germination was recorded as 60%.

Banana Tissue Culture: Banana varieties i.e. B-10, Pisang and W-11 were propagated. Total 2387 shoots of banana were under multiplication/sub-culturing, 398 plants were under rooting and total 490 plants were under hardening process.

Sugarcane Tissue Culture: Sugarcane varieties, YT-53, YT-55 & Thatta 300 were multiplied through tissue culture technique. Where Chinese sugarcane varieties, YT-53 were mostly multiplied. Total 56 shoots were under multiplication/sub-culturing, and 10 plants were under rooting stage.

Planting of Fruit Plants (3.5 Acres): New plantation of 60 Chiku (Manilkara zapota), 108 Ber (Ziziphus jujube), 108 Lemon (Citrus limon) & 206 of Falsa (Grewia asiatica) were planted on 0.5, and other three each on 1 acre respectively.

1.3 National Tea & High Value Crops Research Institute (NTHRI), Shinkiari, Mansehra:

Managed 58 KIWI plants brought from Nepal/HRI NARC and covered to protect from frost.

Pruned 3.5 acre Tea at 75 cm height for re-growth.

Managed different vegetables (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Crown, Potato, Tomato and Lettuce) grown at NTHRI.

Sown 55 kg peach seed for raising of stone fruit nurseries.

Managed the nursery of Peach, apricot, walnut, fig, plum and pomegranate.

Managed Mother fruit orchard established at NTHRI.

Managed the stool beds of apple (MM-106, pear (Quince) and Cherry (Colt).

Arranged different fruit plant, vegetables nurseries and ornamental

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plants in tunnels as well as in open field at display center for sale purpose.

Planted tea around the display center. 1.4 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan:

In wheat variety NARC-2011 the germination range was between 80 to 85%.

1.5 PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab

Twelve entries of indeterminate tomato were sown vertically under plastic house condition to optimize the planting density and to sort-out suitable hybrids/verities for plastic culture.

1.6 Olive Promotion Project:

PARC started working on preparation of Maps for suitable areas for olive cultivation in Pakistan using the weather data of last 25 years.

PARC has finalized the data of 500 olive orchards in Pakistan using GIS technology and soon all the data will be uploaded to PARC web.

2. Coordination Activities

2.1 Southern-zone Agricultural Research Centre (SARC), Karachi:

IPI scientists visited Coconut plantation at Irshad coconut farm , Mirpur Sakero, Thatta on the request of owners. During the visit it was noted that Coconut palms required good management, manure circle and fertilizers for Proper growth and yield. Suggestion and guidance to the owner on spot for better management practices for coconut garden and pest and disease control especially coconut Mite.


o Six member team of Fauji Fertilizer Business Limited, Rawalpindi headed by Brigadier (R) Mr. Shahid Afzal visited NTHRI. They were briefed about history of tea, tea plantation in Pakistan, prospects of tea in Pakistan and current activities carried out at NTHRI.

2.3 National Sugar Crops & Tropical Horticulture Research Institute (NSTHRI), Thatta:

Coordinated with ORA, SARC and planted 04 Soyabean varieties i.e. Rawal-1, NARC-11, Williams-82 and Admani and 2 sunflower varieties i.e. Parsun -3 and HiSun-39) at Mr. Abdul Majeed Nizamani Agriculture farm, near Ansari Sugar Mills, Matli District Badin.

120 tissue cultured sugarcane seedlings of HoTh-300 and 100 seedlings of YT-53 have been sown for field evaluation purposes at Mir Wali Muhammad Agricultural farm Digri District Mirpurkhas.

The seed of 10 promising sugarcane lines developed by the institute were supplied to grower Mr. Ghulam Qadir Palejo Makli Thatta for farmer’s field trials

Forty farmers/ NGO activists of district Thatta led by Mr. Chanesar Soomro, Training Coordinator of Thatta based NGO “Indus Earth Trust” visited NSTHRI. The visitors were briefed about the research activities of the institute. Farmers showed their interest in Sugarcane varieties and their Production Technology, Management of salt affected soils and the process of Banana & Sugarcane Seed Multiplication through Tissue Culture.

2.3 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan:

PRTS Scientists attended two no. of one day seminar on Bio Safety and use of Potassium in Agriculture organized at Institute of Manag. Scie. B.Z.U. Multan

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2.4 PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab

Coordination was strengthen with the Training Acadamy in Peshawar, technical services will be provided to them regarding fruit plants nursery raising and orchard management (continuous activity).


Full length coordination was extended to the media company, for shooting the olive clips in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Olive oil extraction facility was provided to the olive growers of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in coordination with the provincial research system (continuous activity).

Federal Project Management Unit coordinated with the provincial components to plan and finalize the targets of olive plantation for the coming plantation season, 2015.

2.6 PARC Coordination

Wheat germplasm (1898 entries) received from CIMMYT Mexico and distributed to the CIMMYT Pakistan NARC and WRI-AARI-Faisalabad for planting.

Seed material of 05 oilseed crops (12 varieties) has been sent to SAARC, Dhaka, Bangladesh for Regional Adaptive Trials.

Under coordinated activity Potato program is working for NUYT/ adaptability trials at 5 locations (16entries), Vegetables NUYT trials at 6 locations (Tomato 9 entries, Chilli 9 entries, Onion 7 entries and Garlic 2 entries) through out Pakistan.

Two new Sugarcane National Uniform Yield Trials with 2nd year plant and NUYT with 1st year plant comprising of 5 & 6 candidate sugarcane varieties respectively plus 2 standard checks maintained.

Sugar beet adaptability trial comprising 23 exotic hybrids planted at NARC, Islamabad, Al-Moiz Sugar Mills, D.I.Khan and Chak No.99/TDA Karor, district Layyah are being maintained by applying proper cultural operations.

2.7 Meetings of Member, PSD:

Agri. Working Group Meeting to Finalize recommendations for 4th coming OIC Summit

Discuss the implementation status of BOG decision.

Meeting with ASPL Mango Value Chain Improvement Project, Australia Team.

PARC Technology Display Centre PATCO Partnership Award.

Demonstration of PV solar AC/DC Elect. Generation for Home use

National Seminar on Rice Quality & head recovery affected by harvesting/threshing and Millage practices.

Meeting with Dr. Babar Bajwa, CABI.

RADP Program Executive Committee (PEC) Meeting.

AIP Meeting with Dr. Thomas

Visit of Biotech Corn Field Trails planted by ‘Pioneer’ at NARC Res. Facility.

Review Meeting of Banana Tissue Culture Progress.

Presentation regarding implementation of the decisions 37th BOG (Present status of Tea)

Review of work regarding Mangroves and their feasibility to grow on sea coasts.

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Launching ceremony of Commemorative postage stamps at 100th Birth year of Dr. Norman Borlaug.

Seminar “International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food & Agriculture.

Consultation meeting of stake holders over the proposal for sustainable agriculture in Gilgit through Strengthening of MARC, Jaglot, Gilgit.

Presentation on Buckwheat to appraise the honorable Federal Secretary, NFS&R.

2.8 Meeting of Directors/Coordinators

Directors/Coordinators of respective programs attended Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting of Crop Sciences Institute (CSI) NARC held on December 2, 2014.

Director/Coordinator (Wheat) attended Rust Surveillance meeting at CDRI, NARC.

Ongoing RADP sub-projects related with DPEP, NARC were reviewed by technical division and PD (RADP).

3. Dissemination of research results/ new technologies


Honorable Members of the Senate Standing Committee for Ministry of National Food Security & Research, held a meeting with DG (SARC) and all directors of SARC at SARC, Karachi.

Mexican Rice Export delegation visited, Rice Quality Testing Lab. at FQSRI. The members of delegation were briefed on the Quality Test being carried out

in the lab. 3.2 Olive Promotion Project:

Distribution of a newly published brochure to the farmers on olive production technology to provide update information regarding olive cultivation and processing techniques.

3.3 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan:

246 no. of Trichogramma egg cards were prepared.

75Kg wheat was sterilized by heating and the 2 Sitotroga rearing units were filled with it.

4 no. of small glass jars have been introduced by the Sitotroga eggs for the purpose of its rearing.

The 2 no. of cultural plates of Chrysoperla carnea were prepared.

4. Capacity Building / Training/ Visit


BS, Agriculture (Plant Protection students) from department of Agriculture & Agri-business Management, University of Karachi visited SARC institutes.

36 M.Sc students of Department of Plant Protection, University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Biology visited VPCI..


Senior Director, ARI Tarnab, Peshawar along with PRO Horticulture, SSO (Olive) visited olive model farm Sangbhatti on 15-12-14 and admired the efforts regarding olive propagation, mother orchard management.


Supervised 03 M. Phil students from Hazara University, 02 B.Sc student from University of Haripur they conducted their research on following topic:

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Comparison of Organic & in Organic with E.M on the establishment of tea nursery plants.

Effect of different doses of growth retardant (CCC) on the growth of yield of cucumber seedlings.

Observation of drought & Cold tolerance on tea var. Qi Men grown at NTHRI.

Screening of pea genotypes for disease resistance and high yield attributes

Evaluation of different pea varieties under the prevailing climatic condition for future hybridization

Natural Resources Division

S.#. Official Task / Activity

Status of Task


Balochistan Agricultural Research & Development Centre (BARDC) PARC, Quetta

Sowing of commercial wheat varieties Tijaban-10, Shalkot-14, Pirsabak-13, AZRI-96, NARC-9, Shahkar-13, NARC-11, Pak-13, Zardana-89, Chakwal and Local White for seed multiplication has been completed in Naseerabad, Jaffarabad, Kharan and Sibi districts.

Two Chickpea & lentil trials completed & germination of these crops 80 % were recorded 80 % was recorded

POCEDPA, olive promotion project in Balochistan. Mr. Fawad Ahmed and Mr. Atiq visited killa Saifullah Distt to moniter the olive orchards and meeting with farmers

Epidemiology, diagnosis and control of small ruminants’ cestodes at upland Balochistan and assessment for proper control of cestode infection in sheep are in progress.

Reproductive and productive performance of Harnai sheep cross with Balochi ram at BARC-Tomagh Station is in progress.

Male-lambs from Balochi-ram cross with Harnai ewes showed higher birth weight (15 kg) compared with Harnai-ram/Harnai-ewes (11.76 Kg) during the month. All the experimental sheep were vaccinated against enterotoxaemia.

Evaluation of sheep production performance with improved breeding.

Management practices like weeding/cleaning and harvesting of medicinal plants (oregano, brinjas (yarrow), thyme, mint, artichoke, celery, sage methy, mulethy, and rosemary were carried out during the month of December.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, D.I. Khan

Seed multiplication of Rapeseed variety Takwara sown on 18 acres is growing well and crop was irrigated during the month.

Mustard’s F3 population and Rapeseed (Mohsin-12) fertilizer doze study are growing well and flowering has been completed and pod formation has been started in some entries.

Chickpea Kabuli, desi and lentil varietal trials have germinated well. Weeding is being done manually.

Progeny blocks of lentil and chickpea and germ plasm sown during mid of last month germinated well and weeding was done manually.

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Regional trials of wheat and barley and a trial on wheat irrigation regimes are growing well and irrigation was applied.

Date-palm and guava orchards were maintained and required agronomic practices were applied accordingly. Plowing is done in the orchard for soil pulverization and weeds control.

Ber orchard is bearing fruits and size of fruits is increasing with irrigation applied.

In falsa orchard pruning was done during the month. Plowing is also done in the orchard for soil pulverization and weeds control.

Irrigation was applied to berseem fodder crop sown at 10 acres for income generation and soil reclamation. Fodder crop has been auctioned for income generation.

Chickpea NIFA-2005 sown on 18 acres for quality seed production is growing well and some over growing plots are being grazed for nipping activity.

Lentil variety Masoor-2004 sown for seed increase on 3 kanal is growing well however necessary weeding is being done manually.

For meeting FSCRD standards wheat crop (basic seed) sown on 35 acres for quality seed production & income generation is being sprayed with weedicide through boom sprayer for the 1st time in the history of AZRI. Barley and oats sown on 6 acres area are also being sprayed with weedicide for control of broad and narrow leaf weeds.

Under land reclamation activity carried at AZRI farm some weaker plants of Jetropha curcus are being uprooted for better utilization of land. Moreover soil reserved for sunflower hybrid seed production is planned for laser level.

Daily / monthly data of discharge, rainfall etc were recorded regularly of all selective artesian wells in Draban outreach, under ALP project.

Better water management in artesian flow is ensured at a location in Gara Akhundzada. 250 feet concrete pipe lining is planned along-with a water tank.

The fish in the pond developed under ALP project have attained the average weight of 2 Kg. A stock of 20 fish has taken out and farmer sold it in market @ Rs.500/- fish. Thus generated Rs 10,000/- in total. New stock of fish is also observed after breeding

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur.

The sowing of wheat trial has been completed well in time. The wheat trial is conducted here for the first time at the institute as the PARC declared the AZRI, Bahawalpur coordinating unit of all the field and horticultural crops.

The sowing of the wheat (NUYT) trial has been completed at Bahawalpur farm.

The sowing of the chickpea (Desi & Kabuli) both trials at AZRI, Bahawalpur Farm.

The sowing Lentil has been completed as per plan of work at Bahawalpur farm.

The sowing of Fodder yield trial of Berseem & Oats has been completed as per plan of work at Bahawalpur farm and land preparation is under process at Bahawalpur for the sowing of Oat (NUYFT –2014-15).

Comparative studies on resistance of different new lines to attack of

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Dusky Cotton bug on cotton. All the required data has been recorded and are being compiled. The picking of cotton regarding to the different yield parameters has been carried out and the trial has been completed.

The effect of Vocozum (PGR, plant growth regulators) & Boron on the fruit shedding on cotton crop. Crop productivity of cotton in relation to the water use efficiency with minimum application of water in the arid region of Bahawalpur. Both the above mentioned trials become completed. The required data has been recorded and compiled.

. The income generation activities and other important technical tasks of the Institute.

Last and final picking of cotton crop is under process at AZRI, Bahawalpur.

Weeding eradication is under progress in Range grasses at both the farms Bahawalpur and Cholistan and Roughing (off type plant removal) is also being carried out.

The transplanted Plants of datepalm are being maintained (irrigation + nutrition application) at Bahawalpur farm.

The orchards of ber are at fruiting stage and are being maintained i.e. hoeing, weed eradication and irrigation application has been done at Bahawalpur farm.

In the wel of biogas digester, the fresh dung material is being added twice in the week. The production of methane gas has become decreased due to the low temperature.

Solar tube well is being maintained at Cholistan farm and the water is mixed with canal water and is being applied according to the requirement.

The irrigation has been applied to citrus and Guava fields at Cholistan Farm

The Jatropha curcas at Cholistan & Bahawalpur farm are being maintained according.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

An experiment on Sweet Corn F I “Sun cone 88” has been conducted at AZRI Farm Umerkot on 28-11-2014 with plant to plant and row to row distance of 1’X1’. The seed was received from the Chairman PARC/Japan to see adoptability of sweet corn in local climatic conditions. Mustard crop has been cultivated on the border side to protect the cold winds/breeze of winter. Weeding was carried out. Irrigations were applied. Forte insecticide was applied to control pests. Furthermore 20: 20: 20 E taragrow fertilizer (0.5 kg), Refree 0.3% g (250 g) and Furadon 3g were also applied. Other data is being recorded.

A Solar desalinization unit has been installed at AZRI Umerkot. Four Solar Panel are installed with 60 gallon storage tank. Further more two Solar desalinization units are also installed one at village Nawab Jee Dhani in Thar and second one at Haveli Village Chhore. The research data on temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind velocity, sunshine hours and daily discharge of untreated, treated and drain water are being collected on daily basis. Water samples of all three sides were also collected and sent to laboratory for analysis.

All range trees, grasses, herbs and shrubs are at winter stress

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condition. Necessary weeding, gap filling and irrigation have been continued. Study on grasses germination in two different methods i.e. through seed and second is through grass nodes, has been continued. Germination has been observed but germination percentage is very low due to cool climatic condition.

National Uniform Yield Trial on Guar was conducted at AZRI Farm on 18-07-2014. Seven entries in RCBD are cultivated with a plot size of 2.7 mX7.2 m. having 3 replications, 6 rows/plot and distance from row to row at 45 cm. respectively. The trial has been threshed and yield data is being compiled

In Marvi Nursery Shed Acacia nilotica (1500 plants), Zizyphus (500 plants), Hinna (1200 plants), Albizia lebek (1000 plants), Phog stem cutting (Calligonus polygonides) (1000 plants), Rohero (500 pants), Acacia Parkin sonia (500 plants), Iple Iple (1000 plants) and Moninga (1000 plants), are at development stage. 1000 plants of Conocorpus were handed over to NSTHRI (PARC) Thatta. Furthermore 2700 cuttings of conocorpus are planted in polythene begs.

An experiment to see the performance of various varieties/cultivars of cluster bean was conducted at AZRI Umerkot. Eight varieties/cultivars i.e AZRI sel-2013, Indian, local guar and five genotypes. The genotypes are threshed. A demo plot of four Guar varieties i. Thar bean, Malvi Bean, B.R- 99 and B.R Super-99 acquired from ARI Tando Jam has been harvested and threshed. The compilation of research data is in process.

The experiment on sunflower varietal trial was conducted at AZRI farm. Ten varieties of sunflower were cultivated. Furthermore 16 germ plasm of Sunflower were also cultivated.

42 germ plasm /genotypes of cluster bean collected from IABGR (NARC), DG (SARC) and AZRI was cultivated in the field. High yielding and better performance germ plasm will be selected for further studies. The germ plasms are threshed and research data is being compiled.

Bio-gas plant was inoperative condition with daily Gas production of 6-7 m3. Data was recorded on regular basis. Gas is used for pumping water for irrigation to grafted ber under drip of irrigation system.

The data of grafted Ber during the reported period indicated that an average of plant height, plant girth and plant canopy recorded were at 282 cm. 27 cm. and 450 cm. respectively. The data has been recorded on weekly basis to achieve the best water use efficiency and uniformity coefficient. The ber fruits are being ripening overall two picking were carried out. Yield parameters like No. of fruits, total fruits, weight of fruit, size of fruit per plant are being recorded.

Two irrigations were applied to Mulberry, Chiku and Falsa plants. The other cultural practices were also carried out. The grafted ber are also introduced in semi arid region of Thar through the collaboration of Research and Development Foundation (RDF) and Sindh Agriculture Development Association (SADA) NGo’s.

Fifty plants of grapes were planted after changing of soil for demonstration to farmers. Hybrid tomatoes and onion are also intercropped under a demo drip irrigation system.

An experiment on ten international Tomato varieties has been

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conducted at Mian Muhammad Saleem Agri. Farm Kot Ghulam Muhammad. The varieties viz Avto 1422, Avto 1456, Avto 1417, Avto 1420, Avto 1288, Avto 1405, Avto 1418, Avto 1424, Avto 1409 and Avto 1414 are cultivated. Three irrigations were applied. One spray was applied to control insect pest and viral disease. Agronomic data is being recorded on regular basis.

14 acre of mustard crop has been cultivated at AZRI Farm during the Rabi season. Two irrigations were applied. Weeding was carried out. Urea fertilizer was also applied.

Jatropha curcas crop cultivated on marginal land at AZRI Umerkot has been removed. Only some plants for demo are kept so far.

The compost of bio-fertilizer has been prepared to initiate the plant. The date palm plants are protected from the winter winds. Two irrigations were applied to Date palm orchard. Furthermore Mustard sown intercropped conocorpus and acacia are planted at the boundary wall. A lawn has been established. 08 acre new land is being developed to install drip irrigation system on Solar energy for cultivation of grafted ber orchard. The further research work is under process

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit

ICARDA / CIMMYT Wheat Improvement Program.(ICWIP)

CWANA 14th Elite Spring Bread Wheat Yield Trial (CWANA 14th ESBWYT) Twenty Four (24) entries with two replications were sown at MARC, Juglote for evaluation of yield performance under the climatic condition of Gilgit-Baltistan.

18th International Winter Wheat Yield Trial for Irrigated Areas, 2014-2015. Forty (40) entries with two replications were carried out for their performance under climatic conditions of GB, Juglote.

ICARDA / CIMMYT Wheat Improvement Program.14th Spring Bread Wheat Observation Nursery (CWANA 14th SBW-ON) 2013 -114. One hundred & fifty (150) Entries including one local check were conducted at MARC.

Performances of 9 different exotic and indigenous varieties of Alfalfa at MARC were managed during the reported month.

Fruit nurseries of different deciduous fruits (rootstock and grafted plants) were managed for cultural practices were carried out at MARC, Juglote, MARS Skardu and MARS, Chilas, respectively.

Deciduous fruit plants were maintained.

Sale of off season vegetables i.e. China cabbage, Radish, Nepali palk and Turnips are being sold to local communities and income was deposited in PARC income account during the reported month.

10 soil samples were analyzed for ph, Ec, N-NO3, P & K.

Leaf samples prepared for analysis of various tests. Project proposal. Revised the work plan for the newly established Natural Resources Research Program Fisheries (Trout)

Local fish feeds have been applied to trout fish brood stock yearling and fingerlings

Management & cleaning of raceways.

Sale of fish has been stopped due to approach of breeding season

Management of brood stock.

Data regarding growth increment is being collected for statistical

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analysis.

(10) Local / Betal goats were successfully crossed with Betal Bucks during the reported month.

(13) local cows were directly crossed with Jersey breeding bull during the reported month

2 Coordination Activities


Six students of Sardar Bhadar Khan Woman University (SBKWU) planted their field research trials under the supervision of BARDC scientist at BARDC, Quetta.

Six students of Agricultural College Balelli, Quetta conducting their BS.c. internship at BARDC, Quetta.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) D.I. Khan

Trials contributed by National Coordinators i.e. National Uniform Yield trials chickpea (Desi & Kabuli), lentil, mustard, rapeseed, Rainfed wheat trial and preliminary yield trial on mustard are growing well. Weed management practices were applied and oilseed crop trials were irrigated.

Multi-location yield trial of chickpea and rapeseed genotypes of NIFA germinated well and rapeseed trial was irrigated; however, weeding was done manually.

Chickpea (Chickpea International Fusarium wilt Nursery 2014-15) and lentil (Lentil International Elite Nursery 2014-15) F3 nurseries contributed by ICARDA are growing well and weeding was done manually.

Trials contributed by CIMMYT and ICARDA i.e. 36th International Durum Yield Trial Mediterranean Dry land, 22nd Semi-arid wheat yield trial, 32nd Semi-arid wheat screening nursery and 14th Dry land spring bread wheat yield are growing well.

In wheat comprehensive trail sowing was done on two date of sowings during the month. It is worth mentioning that the trial is being conducted in coordination with Agriculture University Peshawar, sponsored by Inter-Cooperation (IC).

Sugar beet sown on 9 acre area in collaboration with Al-Moiz Industries, D.I. Khan is growing well and earthing up was done through special designed rotavator and irrigation was also applied during the month.

Four sets of examination papers of students from Faculty of Agriculture, Gomal University, D.I. Khan were marked.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) Bahawalpur

During the month of December, all the beneficiaries (progressive growers of protected tunnels) of AIP-AVRDC were visited accordingly. The transplantation of tomato plants in the tunnels is being carried out as well as cucumber plantation under protected tunnels (high tunnels) has been completed and the plant growth is healthy and vigorous on all the sites. The farmers provided are being provided assistance by the technical team of AZRI, Bahawalpur on regular basis.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

Coordination with local progressive farmers and NGO’s like RDF, SOFT, SADA, Larr Humanitarian Development Foundation, Thar Deep, SCOPE, Basic- DF, MDF and provincial Agriculture Department was

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continued. Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit

Coordination with Karakuram International University Gilgit Baltistan. M. Sc students come from KIU for soil analysis as well as Students of fruit processing also visits.

Distribution of seeds of wheat improved varieties during the reported month was carried out

3 Dissemination of research results new technologies


Seed of advanced wheat varieties (Shalkot-14 & Tijaban-10) and Barley seed was distributed among the farmers of different districts of Balochistan.

Farmer field day was conducted at BARDC; farmers were briefed regarding importance of new research technologies & agronomic practices and varietal impact on yield.

Agro-meteorological data were recorded from BARDC observatory unit. No rain received during the month under report and min -8 oC was recorded.


Agro-meteorological data were recorded from AZRI observatory unit. Maximum (28 0C) and minimum temperature (010C) was recorded on 08-12-2014 and 29-12-2014 respectively. Windblown @ 05 km / hour on 25-12-2014. No rainfall occurred during the month under report.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur

Nil. Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

The research results of alternative energy sources (Solar, Wind and Bio-gas) , biofuel plant and new drought tolerant crops varieties like mung bean, sorghum, sunflower, chick pea, guar, mustard, millet, sesame and range species like Acacia Senegal, Lasiurus scindicus and grafted Zizyphus are introduced among farmers.


Provided the crossing facilities as on-going activity to the communities of Juglote for the improvement local livestock breed of cows, sheep & goats with improved breed of Jersey, Dahmani and Betal respectively

4 Capacity building & Training/visits


Mr. Ali Raza Jamali, Mr. Liaqat Ali Dr Abdul Hannan attended the PEC meeting at PARC

Dr. Ejaz Rafiq and Mr Tauseef Tabassum visited BARDC chemistry lab.

Two farmer’s field days conducted at Jhallmagsi and Jaffarabad.

One day training of farmers on olive promotion was conducted at Quetta.

Students of Lasbella University of agriculture and Marine Sciences visited BARDC

Meeting with SMEDA and Balochistan university of Information Technology and Management Sciences


One Ph. D. scholar sowed his experiments on effect of soil amendments’ efficacy on water holding capacity. Another Ph. D. Scholar was guided for his synopsis finalization.

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D.G. (Planning) PARC Dr. Ahmad Bakhsh Mahar visited AZRI in connection with the preparation of Annual Work Plan. They imparted training to AZRI scientists for Annual Work Plan development.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI), Bahawalpur.

Mr. Muhammad Ali Shah, Budget and Accounts Officer from Ministry of National Food Security and Research, Islamabad visited AZRI, Bahawalpur for conducting Audit of the Institute for the Financial Year 2014-15.The audit was successfully conducted .

A delegation from PARC Headquarters headed by Dr. Ahmed Bux Mehar, DG (Planning) and Dr. Muhammad Aslam, Director (Alternate Energy) and Mr. Ghulam Murtaza, AD (Admin) conducted an enquiry meeting with officers and staff of AZRI, Bahawalpur for finding facts against the application given by some people.

Dr. Ahmad Bux Mahar, DG (Planning), Mr. Shujaat, PSO/ALP and Miss Aysha visited the institute for two days. The delegation conducted meetings with Director and Scientists of the Institute and the team of Scientists from PARC Station, Multan for training of the scientists to make annual business plan in accordance with new format made by PARC Headquarters.


Mr. Safiullah Khan, Director MARC has attended a one day ICIMOD Seminar at PARC, Islamabad on 24/12/2014.

Animal Sciences Division

S.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of Task

Research and Development (Core research activities undertaken)

Animal Health Program:

Under PPR ALP project, a local isolate of PPR virus (PAK-Fjg-07/NARC4) from AHP repository is being attenuated for the development of PPR vaccine by serial passages on Vero cells. During current month 35 serial passages were completed.

Optimization of micro-neutralization assay using hyper-immune sera raised against PPR virus in sheep and goats is under way.

Agar gel immune-diffusion (AGID) was optimized for detection of PPRV isolates. A total of 7 viruses were used in this test.

A suspected outbreak of PPR in Awagut village of Faisalabad was investigated. The outbreak was confirmed by clinical signs and symptoms. Outbreak control measures were advised to the farmers and field veterinary staff of the area.

Serum Neutralization Test was successfully standardized and Arriah and Merial vaccines were tested. It was found that these vaccines have good match for serotype O.

A total of 8 viruses shared by FAO project were grown and their TCID 50 was determined.

The AHP is maintaining repository of different local isolates of PPR and FMD viruses. Besides, the program also successfully maintained and sub-cultured Vero and LFBK cell line. The LFBKaVB6 cell line for the recovery of FMD was revived and the already grown viruses on LFBK were used for comparison of two cell lines.

Animal Nutrition Program:

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ALP project “Generation of reference values on amino acid availability in local feedstuffs for poultry and capacity building at NARC/PIASA” has been started.Under this project 2 DPLs were hired and the initial checks on the amino acid analyzer were performed. Purchase of fixed assets and laboratory remodeling is in progress. Sample collection and survey of SME feed millers was performed.

An experiment entitled “Nutritional evaluation of corn silage bales influenced by storage conditions” with collaboration of Livestock Research Station has been carried out. Laboratory analyses of the silage are under process. Results to date showed that silage is highly nutritive for ruminants.

An experiment, “Effect of dietary supplementation of microbial feed additives on the production and health status of lactating dairy animals” was completed. Results of nutrient digestibility reveled that yeast-supplementation increased the crude protein and crude fibre digestibility. Serum study results indicated that serum glucose level was higher whereas cholesterol was lower in the group receiving live yeast. The total Enterococcus (CFU/g) was not different among each group; whereas total Lactobacillus and total aerobic count were higher in yeast-supplemented compared with control group.

An experiment entitled “Effect of diets with different feeding concentrate ratios for fattening of buffalo calves” has been started on 15-12-2014. Data on daily feed intake and fortnightly weight gain is being recorded.

ALP funded project entitled “Evaluation of Bio-available Phosphorus in Indigenous Feedstuffs for Poultry” is in progress. Under this project, a trail on the broiler chicken has been carried out. Data on daily feed intake and fortnightly weight gain has being recorded.

Animal Product Improvement Program:

In Small Ruminant Research (SRR) section of the APIP, an RADP Sub-Project “Study on Production Potential of Different Sheep and Goats for Mutton Production under High Input System” is in progress. The goats are in advanced stages of pregnancy.

The SRRP section is also preparing a new project PC-1 for sheep and goat conservation under the cluster development approach

In Dairy and Meat Technology section (DMT) of APIP, two samples of commercial yogurt were streaked on MRS and M17 Agar plates. Two isolates of Gram-positive rods and three isolates of Gram-positive cocci have been isolated from these samples. Also, six samples of Gram-positive and catalase negative cocci were subjected to identification tests which included growth in M17 broth containing 6.5% NaCl and growth at 10 °C and 45 °C. All of the isolates were unable to grow at 6.5% salt concentration and at 10 °C. Growth was only observed in M17 broth (with no added salt) incubated at 45 °C. Further identification tests included the use of API 50 CH kit. All of the isolates fermented lactose and sucrose. These results gave positive indication that all of the six coccal isolates belong to the species Streptococcus thermophilus.

In DMT section, tender for the purchase of laboratory equipment under RADP project was opened on 9-12-2014. Only one item (refrigerated centrifuge) out of three was quoted and that too was not according to specifications desired. Therefore, it was decided to go for re-tender.

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The Poultry and Wildlife (PW) section of the APIP submitted a revised project proposal on Establishment of Breeding facility at NARC, Islamabad, and another on Ostrich Farming to RADP.

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

Under the PSF project “Investigations on Fertility-Related Biomarkers in Buffalo Semen to reduce male-factor losses (MFLs)”, 528 pregnancy tests have been performed regarding fertility trial on buffaloes with semen collected and preserved in low breeding season. Buffalo bulls (n=5) differed when tested for in vivo fertility rate during low breeding season. In vivo fertility rate of Bull 2 (60.95%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to Bull 1 (45.87%). An overall fertility rate of 55.49% was achieved during low breeding season.

Under the ALP project, “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination”, 80 non-descript cows have been treated for heat synchronization with CIDR and inseminated at Kot Addu (Dist Muzaffar Garh). Pregnancy tests have been started in current month.

Under collaborative project entitled “Camel semen cryopreservation”, 2 male and 2 female camels are being maintained by ARGP. Their training for semen donation in artificial vagina has been successfully completed. Experiment on liquidifaction of camel semen has been started.

Budget regarding ALP coordinated project entitled “Genetic improvement of selected indigenous naked neck by crossing with exotic poultry breeds of Rhode Islanad Red and Black Australop” was modified and submitted to be processed for final agreement signing.

Revised version of project entitled “Development of open nucleus breeding scheme for Nili buffalo and Sahiwal cattle at NARC” was defended and which was subsequently approved for funding from RADP.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Program:

Following activities were performed under the project, “Intensification of fish culture to increase per unit area fish production in farm ponds using different managemental inputs”:

An experiment under the theme, “To study the growth performance of carps fed on supplementary fish feeds containing varying levels of proteins i.e. 15, 20 and 25 % CP” is in progress. Under this experiment, the average weight of Rohu, Mori, Grass carp and Silver carp were 523.06, 625.15, 690.25 and 725.54 gm respectively in treatment 1, While in treatment 2 Rohu, Mori, Grass carp and Silver carp were 525.25, 675.55, 725.75 and 750.25 gm respectively. The duration for this experiment is six months.

An experiment under the theme, “Comparison of efficiency of balanced fish feed formulated from locally available feed ingredients having 25%, 30 % and 35 % crude protein for the growth of fry” is in progress. Under this experiment, two thousand fries of Rohu and Mori were brought from Punjab hatchery Islamabad and stocked in concrete raceways for acclimatization. The average weight of Mori is 6.2 and Rohu is 5.5 gm.

One new PSDP project has been started. Ponds and Hatchery layout has been finalized with the help of “Works Dept” and is under process. Procurement of equipment is also under process.

New RADP funded project entitled “Development of Aquaculture in

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Lakes Surrounding Sindh Abadgar Sugar Mill, Tando Muhammed Khan through Pan Culture” has been approved by PEC, RASDP.

The AFRP is successfully breeding Guppies and Mollies (ornamental fish) in concrete raceways. This achievement is expected to be a major milestone in breeding of these fishes within the country. Also, the brood stock of ornamental fish is under preparation.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

A total of 1663referral and surveillance samples were received and processed for viral, bacterial and molecular diagnosis. In this regard, 218 molecular diagnosis reactions (PCR, QRT-PCR, RT-PCR and sequencing) and 821 serological reactions including HI, ELISA, PAT, were carried out for major poultry pathogens along with bacteriological evaluation of 10 samples. Eighteen postmortems were conducted. Overall 13 viruses were isolated and sub typed as 06 H9 AIVs and 01 NDV along with 06 bacteriological isolations. Moreover other poultry pathogens including IBV, MDV, ALV, REO, MS and MG were also detected from suspected samples.

Proficiency testing has been performed on samples received from GD lab Netherlands. The results were submitted to GD labs.

Under the HPED project PB1 and PB2 genes of AIV H14N3 were sequenced. 106 Samples have been evaluated serologically and no seroconversion was found against AIV H7N9.

Under ALP project NDV vaccine experiment has been completed. The data indicated no shedding of virus along with increased immunity. Technical progress report for the project was prepared and submitted.

Under RADP -H9N2 164 samples were collected and 4 H9N2 isolates has been isolated. Seroconversion was observed in sera from backyard poultry. IVPI experiment was carried out and 4 isolates were found to be low pathogenic. Technical and financial reports have been prepared for first quarter of 2014-2015 and submitted to RADP -PARC. Tender documents prepared and submitted for purchase of consumables.

Coordination activities (Meetings arranged in pursuance of mandate of each institute)

The TWG Research Monitoring committee Review Meeting along-with RADP review meeting were simultaneously held on December 01, 2014 at Animal Health Program, NARC in which the achievements presented by the PI’s of each RADP sub-project were reviewed by the concerned review committees. The session was chaired by Director General, NARC.

Two meetings of PIASA faculty were held in the AHP conference room. These meetings were chaired by Director ASI.

Animal Health Program:

Monthly teleconference was held with PIADC USDA to share FMD project achievements.

Under ALP-PPR project Baluchitan and Sindh provinces were visited (teshil Umerkot and Bella) for the demonstration of Socio-economic impact of PPR. Randomly 50 sera samples were collected for the evaluation of PPR vaccine already administrated under this project in these areas.

Under ongoing PPR-FAO project southern Punjab was visited for the demonstration of PPR control.

Tele meeting with the provincial project in charge of PPR project ALP in Punjab, Sindh, KPK, Baluchistan, GB and AJK.

FAO personals, senior management of ASI and ASD participated in a

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meeting related to Epinode. Animal Product Improvement Program:

The DMT section of APIP participated in the seminar on “International Workshop on Bioremediation” on 10th Dec 2014 organized by National institute of Bioremediation, NARC, Islamabad in collaboration .

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

Coordination activity for ALP project “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination” was performed.

Dr. Nemat Ullah Project Director, SPU Khizrabad (Dist. Sargodha) visited ARGP to discuss ongoing collaboration between the two institutes.

One scientist attended two day “Livestock and Dairy Development Conference” at UVAS Lahore and made a presentation.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Program:

The program attended meeting with Chairman PARC regarding the overall activities of the Fisheries Program.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

Attended meeting regarding the newly submitted AIV H7N9 project in the PARC.

Attended and participated in International workshop on Bio-safety and Bio-security at University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore in collaboration of ICLS & Pakistan Bio-safety Association.

Attended a meeting with OIE delegation for veterinary services evaluation.

Attended TWG meeting and presented the work plan and progress report of the projects.

Dissemination of research results/new techniques (Publications, Research, Radio TV Talks, Seminar, Symposia, Workshop etc)

Dissemination of Research Products:

Under PATCO, the ANP sold 625 bags of PARC cattle feed, 76 kg milk booster and 5 urea molasses blocks. Also, two samples from FAO, while two feed samples from Mansehra Sheep Farm were analyzed.

The ANP has also submitted the partial DNA sequencing results from eight bacterial strains to the Gene Bank (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) for getting accession numbers.

The DMTP section of the APIP processed a batch of 30 litre milk for different variety of yoghurt / cheese for marketing on PATCO sale point.

The PW section of APIP sold eggs and crossbred desi chicks under PATCO and also auctioned the Kaghani sheep and crossbred sheep.

The AFRP provided fingerlings of American Channel cat fish (5-8 g weight) to fish farmers in for observing the growth performance in earthen ponds. The program, also sold ornamental fishes worth Rs 26230/- under PATCO.

Trainings/exhibitions:

The DMTP section of the APIP lectured and conducted training / exposure visit about “Dairy Value Chain” on 9 and 10th Dec 2014 for 20 participants of ‘Islamic Relief’ from AJK organized in collaboration with API, NARC, Islamabad. The program also lectured and conducted a customized training for Mr. M. Raza Khan on “White Cheese Technology” on 22 to 24 Dec 2014 at Dairy and Meat Technology Lab, ASI, NARC, Islamabad.

NRLPD prepared course contents on Virology and Immunology for DVM internees for API. Also, poster of achievements under the HPED project

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was prepared and submitted for presentation in the project closing meeting at Bangkok, Thailand during 18-20 December, 2014.

AFRP imparted “Fish Farmer Training” at Mirpur and Chashma organized by Fisheries Development Board.

Publications:

A research article entitled “Effect of cysteine addition to the freezing extender on the progressive motility, viability, plasma membrane and DNA integrity of Nili-Ravi buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bull spermatozoa” has been published during current month in Journal of Applied Animal Research.

Aziz, T. and Khan, H. 2014. A survey on milk adulteration at retail outlets of Islamabad, Pakistan. Carpathian Journal of Food Science and Technology, Vol 6(2) pp 44-52.

One manuscript was submitted for publication to Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Research

One research paper “ Mild form of PPR in Pakistan” is accepted for publication in Journal of Zoology.

A revised Urdu version of dairy products preparation at household level was prepared and submitted as desired by Director API, NARC.

An outline of three topics / radio talks on dairy product and processing was prepared and submitted as desired by member (ASD).

Training imparted

Four courses have been offered, by various ASI departments, to PIASA students in the winter semester.

In ANP, one MPhil student from PIASA and one PhD student from Gilgit Baltistan are conducting their research work. Six farmers were guided on feeding and management of livestock.

In AHP, a student from PIASA-NARC was trained in cell culture techniques for the completions of his M. Phil research on comparative sensitivity of FMDV isolates on different cell lines.

At ARGP, research work of 03 PhD and 04 M. Phil students is being supervised.

In DMT section of the APIP, two MPhil students of the Hazara University are doing research on semi commercial yoghurt project for their theses research.

The SRR section of the APIP guided six farmers on small ruminant production aspects.

The PW section of the APIP guided 35 farmers on poultry farming.

The AFRP guided seven fish farmers on fish culture system.

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Social Sciences Division

S# Official Task / Activity

Status of Task

1. Research and Development Activities

Report writing for the following research studies was carried out at SSRI, NARC: Trends of climate change with focus on droughts on local

communities in rainfed areas of Pakistan. Climate change impact on livelihood of local communities in

rainfed areas of Punjab. Climate change vulnerabilities and coping strategies of resilience

in rainfed areas of Punjab. An Exploratory Survey of Indigenous Knowledge of Climate

Change in Rainfed Areas of Punjab. Identification of Local Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for

Water Management in Pothwar Region.

Conducted FGDs with producer at two sites in small ruminant value chain project from 2-12-2014 to 9-12-2014.

Data collection from different actors of value chain from 10-12-2014 to 12-12-2014 and 20-12-2014 to 21-12-2014.

analyzed data for Maize and wheat expert elicitation of varietal adoption (2013-14).

undertook data collection for rice and gram crop under the project SIAC activity 201.

conducted survey of host farmer of soil fertility project 24-26 December.

worked on Rethinking Rural and Agriculture Finance Enhancing Farm Productivity, (A case study of KPK).

Report writing continued to complete first draft for the study “Profitability of Agriculture in Different Cropping System of AJK” at SSRI, AJK.

Baseline Survey of AIP Pakistan (CIMMYT)- Comments on Draft Report received and under consideration. SSRI, Faisalabad.

SSRI, Faisalabad worked on the study entitled “Economic Feasibility and Prospects of Strawberry Spread in Central Punjab”-Report writing in progress.

SSRI, Faisalabad worked on the study “Adoption of Recommended Production Practices and their Impact on Citrus Productivity in Punjab” -Report writing in progress.

SSRI, Faisalabad worked on the study “Analysis of Price Variation of Essential Agricultural Food Commodities at Different Levels of Marketing” –Draft report completed. SSRI, Faisalabad.

SSRI, Faisalabad worked on the study entitled “Assessment of Recommended Production Technologies Adopted by Cotton Growers in Punjab-Report writing in progress”

Work continued on the study “Economic Analysis of Turmeric Crop in Kasur District-Report writing in progress” - SSRI, Faisalabad.

SSRI, Faisalabad worked on the study “The Role of Milk Collection Contract in Improving Milk Production and Marketing in Irrigated Punjab-Data cleaning and standardization completed”. SSRI, Faisalabad.

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Data analyzed and Draft report of the research study entitled “Tomato Assessment Survey in Bajawar Agency” completed and submitted to Agricultural Research FATA, Tarnab-Peshawar for comments. SSRI, Tarnab.

Draft report of the research study entitled “Onion Assessment Survey in Mohmand Agency” completed and submitted to Agricultural Research FATA, Tarnab-Peshawar for comments after receiving and incorporation the comments the report will be submitted to SSD, PARC, Islamabad. SSRI, Tarnab.

Cell Phone Technology as a Source of Agricultural Knowledge: A Farmers Perception (A Case Study of Mardan District). The questionnaire pretested in the field and modified the questionnaire. The questionnaire is ready for survey and the survey will be conducted in January, 2014. SSRI, Tarnab.

Irrigation Water for Sustainable Food Production and Rural Development: A Case Study of Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC) in District D.I. Khan, Pakistan” Questionnaire is ready for survey and the survey will be conducted in January. SSRI, Tarnab.

Profitability of major crops in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The survey will be conducted in January. SSRI, Tarnab.

Profitability of Agriculture in Different Cropping Systems in Sindh- Questionnaire is developed, SSRI, Tandojam.

Questionnaire was developed for the study entitled “Identifying the role of Livestock in farming food security and livelihood support in marginal and small sized farming Household in Sindh”, SSRI, Tandojam.


SSD, PARC (HQ) coordinated with all its satellite SSRIs; PSSP, IFPRI, USA and MNFSR, Islamabad.

SSRI, NARC commented on Pakistan Trade Policy Review 2008-09 to 2014-15.

SSRI, NARC commented on Article Agricultural Tax Study “A Review of Taxation on Agriculture.

Director SSRI, AJK participated in an orchard management training organized by Fruit and Vegetable Section at Dherkot on 19/12/2014.

SSRI, NARC scientists attended a brain storming session for curriculum development JICA funded project on “Capacity development of agriculture extension services in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province” in API Committee Room, NARC on December 11, 2014 at 10:30 a.m.

SSRI, NARC scientists attended a general notification for the workshop on “Enhancing understanding and implementation of the international treaty on plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (ITPGRFA) in NARC Auditorium on December 23, 2014 at 10:00 a.m.

From SSRI, Faisalabad Mr. Sher Baz Khan, PSO attended the meeting for finalization of Production Plan of Pulses for the year 2015-16 dated 12th December, 2014.

From SSRI, Faisalabad Mr. Sher Baz Khan, PSO attended the meeting for finalization of Production Plan of Kharif Fodder for the year 2015-16 dated 15th December, 2014.

Dr. Arshed Bashir (Director SSRI Faisalabad) Presented AIP Wheat

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Baseline Report of Punjab in the one day workshop AIP Baseline Survey: Progress and Results Sharing meeting" at NARC, Islamabad

Dr Arshed Bashir, (Director SSRI, Faisalabad) attended meeting with Dr. Akhter Ali, CIMMYT economist at CIMMYT office, NARC, Islamabad for the finalization of wheat baseline report dated 26-12-2014.

Dr. M. Qasim had meeting with Member SSD and Dr. Akhter Ali, Agri. Economist CIMMYT Pakistan for data analysis of IFPRI/PSSP project titled “Role of Milk Collection Contract in Improving Milk Production and Marketing in Irrigated Punjab”.

Mr. Nisar Ali Shah, Director, Mr. Arshad Farooq and Mr. Abdul Hassan, SSOs, SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar participated in AIP baseline surveys: Progress and Results Sharing Meeting December 17, 2014, NARC, Islamabad. Mr. Abdul Hassan presented the results of the wheat baseline survey of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Mr. Nisar Ali Shah, Director and Mr. Abdul Hassan, SSO, SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar conducted meeting with Principal Investigator of the coordinated project entitled “Improving Soil Fertility and Soil Health (ICARDA) project and Principal Investigator of the coordinated ICARDA project entitled “Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation Improvement in Pakistan: Demonstrating and Disseminating the Best Practices and Technologies to Help Rural Farmers”. The meeting held on December 31, 2014 and discussed research activities of the projects.

Scientists from SSRI, Tandojama attended the meeting on “Baseline survey of wheat of CYMMIT” progress and results sharing at NARC Islamabad on dated 17th December, 2014.

SSRI, Tandojam team attended farmer’s field day on “Use of NP Fertilizer Prediction Model” organized at Bozdar Wada, Khairpur Mirs held on 28th December 2014.

In collaboration with ICARDA/USDA & Agri Ext Sindhat training workshop at Committee Room Director, ARI, Tandojam, Mrs. Aneela Hameem Memon, SO, SSRI, Tandojam participated training workshop on “Micronutrients influence soil health, quality & yield of Mango in Sindh” held on 19 December 2014.

3. Dissemination of Information

SSD, PARC (HQ) submitted a research paper entitled “Financial Profitability of White Sugar Production in Pakistan” to Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Research, Islamabad.

Raza, I., Bibi, N., Anwar, M. A. K. M. Z., & Bukhari, S. (2014). Use of Mixture Design for the Sensory Evaluation of Carrot and Orange Juice. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 13(11), 661-665. SSRI, NARC

SSRI, NARC conducted training on Rural Poultry Farming for rural women at Tangi Khattak, Nowshera, 46 females participated in the training.

SSRI, NARC conducted Citrus Nursery Raising, Plant Protection training at Tangi Khattak, Nowshera for males, 28 citrus farmers participated in the training

An article on “Food Demand Analysis in AJK” was developed and submitted to Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Research by SSRI, AJK.

Research Paper entitled “Determinants of Sugarcane Yield differential across selected Districts of Central Punjab: An empirical

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Investigation.” submitted in Journal of Agricultural Research (JAR), AARI, Faisalabad. SSRI, Faisalabad

Research Paper entitled “Gender dimension and disparities in vegetable picking.” submitted in Journal of Commerce and Social Sciences, Lahore by SSRI, Faisalabad

Research paper entitled “Women cotton pickers perception about health hazards of pesticides use in the irrigated Punjab” submitted in Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Research (PJAR), PARC, Islamabad by SSRI, Faisalabad

Research paper entitled “Status of Fruit Farming in Central Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” published in Asian Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Volume, 4 Number 8-9-10, 2014. SSRI, Tarnab.

Article published on “Importance of salt in Horse Feed and its preparation of balance food“in Daily Ibrat in Sindhi newspaper on 15th December, 2014.SSRI, Tandojam.

Article published on “Increase the productivity of Water from saltish water” in Daily Ibrat in Sindhi newspaper on 22nd December, 2014. SSRI, Tandojam.

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING DIVISION (AED)

S# Official Task / Activity

Status of Task


PC-I on development and indigenization of small scale processing technologies.

Development of a PC-I on establishment of Post-Harvest and Food Engineering Institute at NARC, Islamabad


Meeting of CAEWRI & ABEI, NARC and prepared minutes of the TWG meeting.

Monitoring and Evaluation of RADP Sub-Project related to ABEI and CAEWRI projects

Highlighting PARC activities/achievements through print and electronic media

Coordinated with Director (Training), PARC and Director (IC), PARC regarding letters received from international organizations/high commissions of Pakistan in different countries

Presentation on “Development and Indigenization of Small Scale Processing Technologies”

Demonstrated the Solar PV home system for AC supply to officers of PARC at Islamabad


Attended a seminar on Pakistan Domestic Biogas plant with the coordination of PRSN at Marriot Hotel, Islamabad on 29-12-2014

International workshop on renewable Energy Technologies in Pakistan, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad on 16-17 December, 2014

Field Seminar/Demonstration of Prototype In-Bin Seed Drying and Storage Technology, Near Sadhoke, Distt. Gujranwala on 10th December, 2014

National Seminar on Rice Quality and Head Recovery affected by different harvesting, milling practices at Gujranwala .

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Coordination & Monitoring Division

S. # Official Task/ Activity

Status of Task

1. Coordination Activity

Meeting organized/ Attended at National Level

Arranged the Consultation meeting of stake holder over the proposal for sustainable agriculture in Gilgit, Balitistan through strengthening of MARC, PARC Jaglot, Gilgit.

Arranged Joint Meeting of PARC and Fisheries Development Board (FDB) over the D.O letter of State Minister for Petroleum regarding development of short course for farming & fisherman communities of Lasbela district

Arranged Workshop on enhancing understanding and implementation of the international Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) on 23rd December, 2014 at NARC, Islamabad.

Coordination at International Level Communication continuing to the technical divisions of PARC regarding:

Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture & Livestock with the Republic of the Philippines.

Cooperation in the field of agriculture between Pakistan and Nepal.

Pakistan-Brazil Bilateral Consultations, in Brasilia, in March, 2015.

Bilateral Cooperation in the Agriculture Sector with Philippines.

Promotion of Productive and Broad-based Partnership between Pakistan and Nepal in the Agriculture and Livestock Sector.

Agreement for cooperation in Agriculture between the Government of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Government of Nepal.

Communication continuing to MNFS&R regarding:

Visit of Ambassador Berhane Gebre Christos, Ethiopian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs to Pakistan.

Joint Action Plan – Talking points for meeting of the Ambassador with Virginia State Officials.

PARC and Instituto Nacional De Tecnologia Agropeucuaria (INTA) Argentina.

Green Paper (Australia).

Development of Pakistan’s Dates Sector for export.

MOU with Ethiopia for Cooperation in the field of agriculture.

MOU between the Government of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the Government of Pakistan on Eradication of Famine and Poverty.

4. Training Five cases of local short term trainings were processed and circulated for the month of December and Fifteen scientists/ officials availed the opportunities in different programs for local trainings in national reputed Institutions at NCRD, PPMI and STI, etc Islamabad.

Two scientists were allowed to get admission in MS/M Phil degree course in national university.

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Planning & Development Division

S # Official Task/Activity Status of Task

1. Revision of new PSDP projects

Three projects were considered by DDWP in its meeting held on 22nd October, 2014 in which it was decided to make some improvements in the projects. As per direction of the Chairman PARC, the respective scientists were requested/followed-up to finalize the revised PC-Is of above projects on immediate basis so that these could be included in PSDP 2015-16 after issuance of Administrative Approvals.

2. Preparation of new projects for PSDP funding.

All Technical Members of PARC were requested to prepare new development projects pick-up good out of those which were closed upon devolution of MINFA in addition to new projects on emerging needs of the nation. Both the lists of closed as well new projects under preparation were provided to the Members for reference. The projects are being prepared by respective Divisions.

3. Meeting of Central Development Working Party (CDWP)

A new project of PARC titled “Promotion of olive cultivation on commercial scale in Pakistan” was considered by CDWP meeting held on 19th November, 2014. The minutes of the meeting received from the Planning Commission were forwarded to the respective scientists for improvement of PC-I in the light of CDWP discussion/decision. The PC-I is being finalized by PD of the project.

4. Submission of new projects to the M/o NFS&R

Six new/revised projects were submitted to the M/o NFS&R for approval of competent authority.

5. Hands-On Training/ Briefing On RBM&E/ Annual Work Plan for AZRI Bahawalpur, PRTS Multan, and AZRI D.I.Khan

The subject hands-on training/briefing was conducted at AZRI Bahawalpur, PRTS Multan, and AZRI D.I.Khan. The training was held on 17th & 18th December, 2014 at AZRI Bahawalpur, and PRTS Multan and 29th & 30th December, 2014 at AZRI D.I.Khan. Director General, P&D Division, PARC presided over the sessions. All the participants presented their work plans. The M&E team of P&D Division, PARC incorporated their feedback and made necessary corrections in the work plan of all the above mentioned stations.

6. Meeting with PSSP (IFPRI) regarding M&R training for PARC

A meeting conducted with delegation from PSSP (IFPRI) regarding M&E training for PARC scientists. The M&E team of PARC discussed in detail about M&E framework of PARC with the delegation.

7. Finalization of work plans of ASI, NARC

Conducted a meeting with Member (ASD), PARC and with scientists of ASI, NARC regarding the finalization of work plans and according draft of work plans finalized at the spot.

8. RADP (Program Officer) M&E of on-going RADP projects planned and started in December 2014. 27 projects of all five sectors reviewed along with experts and PD-RADP. Reports prepared and will be finalized for communication to all concerned for implementation. Plan of outstations projects review will be prepared and executed in January 2015.

9. Project on Capacity Building for proposal

Planned and arranged M&E training meeting with PSSP-IFPRI experts. Way forward was discussed and planned; training plan

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National Agricultural Research Centre

writing will be prepared after further discussions.

10. Monitoring of On-going ALP Projects

Continued monitoring of ALP ongoing projects (62) being implemented at various research institutes/universities. Financial and technical progress reports of six (6) projects collected from PIs examined/evaluated and were forwarded to the Finance Division and technical divisions after found in order for further releases of funds on basis of expenditure reported and budget allocation.

11. Funds Released Funds were released to four (4) on-going projects after the financial reports were provided by the PIs of the projects and forwarded to Finance Division, PARC.

12. Budget revision The budget break-up for 2014-15 in respect of seven (7) on-going projects revised as per project requirement was examined and processed for approval of the competent authority in the council through technical division. The revised budget 2014-15 after the approval by the Chairman PARC/BOD ALP provided to all concerned for further action.

13. Project Implementation Agreements

Project implementation agreement in respect of the a projects approved in 19th meeting of BOD, ALP processed for signing with the host institutes after negotiation of budget with the PIs. Project implementation agreement in respect of the project entitled “Climate change implications for water management and adaptation strategies, CAEWRI, NARC” for initiation and implementation of projects from 14th December, 2014.

14. Appraisal of ALP Project Proposals

The details project proposals under 7th batch of ALP remain under process of appraisal. The proposals were evaluated and further processed for appraisal by national referees.

15. Board of Directors (BOD) of ALP

Agenda and working paper for 20th meeting of Board of Directors of ALP has been prepared and after approval of the Chairman PARC/BOD ALP forwarded to all the members of the BOD. The meeting is schedule on 5th January 2015 at PARC Headquarters, Islamabad.

Sr.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of the task


Under PPR ALP project, a local isolate of PPR virus (PAK-Fjg-07/NARC4) from AHP repository is being attenuated for the development of PPR vaccine by serial passages on Vero cells. During current month 35 serial passages were completed.

Optimization of micro-neutralization assay using hyper-immune sera raised against PPR virus in sheep and goats is under way.

Agar gel immune-diffusion (AGID) was optimized for detection of PPRV isolates. A total of 7 viruses were used in this test.

A suspected outbreak of PPR in Awagut village of Faisalabad was investigated. The outbreak was confirmed by clinical signs and symptoms. Outbreak control measures were advised to the farmers and field veterinary staff of the area.

In Dairy and Meat Technology section (DMT) of APIP, two samples of commercial yogurt were streaked on MRS and M17

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Agar plates. Two isolates of Gram-positive rods and three isolates of Gram-positive cocci have been isolated from these samples. Also, six samples of Gram-positive and catalase negative cocci were subjected to identification tests which included growth in M17 broth containing 6.5% NaCl and growth at 10 °C and 45 °C. All of the isolates were unable to grow at 6.5% salt concentration and at 10 °C. Growth was only observed in M17 broth (with no added salt) incubated at 45 °C. Further identification tests included the use of API 50 CH kit. All of the isolates fermented lactose and sucrose. These results give positive indication that all of the six coccal isolates belong to the species Streptococcus thermophilus.

Under the ALP project, “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination”, 80 non-descript cows have been treated for heat synchronization with CIDR and inseminated at Kot Addu (Dist Muzaffar Garh). Pregnancy tests have been started in current month.

Following activities were performed under the project, “Intensification of fish culture to increase per unit area fish production in farm ponds using different managemental inputs”: An experiment under the theme, “Comparison of efficiency of balanced fish feed formulated from locally available feed ingredients having 25%, 30 % and 35 % crude protein for the growth of fry” is in progress. Under this experiment, two thousand fries of Rohu and Mori were brought from Punjab hatchery Islamabad and stocked in concrete raceways for acclimatization. The average weight of Mori is 6.2 and Rohu is 5.5 gm.

A set of 42 accessions of chickpea with limited seed sown in pots for rejuvenation are in good condition. Similarly, garlic (05), onion (02), cauliflower (08) and radish (01) has been sown in the field is in good condition. Likewise, 15 accessions of Rossel planted in pots/shifted in glasshouse are in fine situation.

SDS-PAGE analysis of total seed storage proteins was carried out using 30 accessions of barley, 20 accessions each of Brassica campestris, B. juncea, and B. napus for the assessment of genetic diversity among given germplasm.

Extraction of total genomic DNA was carried out for 20 accessions each of barley, Brassica campestris, B. juncea, and B. napus genetic resources using CTAB method. Extracted DNA samples were checked and quantified using mini gel electrophoresis for further PCR analysis.

Production of five hundred in vitro banana plants.

In vitro multiplication of newly initiated potato verities Lady rosetta and Hermis was carried out (100 culture each).

Seed viability testing of 34 samples was conducted. This lot also contained 15 samples received for germination testing via PATCO.

Two hundred (200) durum wheat selections were planted in

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field for biotic and abiotic studies at multiplications.

A total of 700 wheat landraces from USA and ITME populations were planted in tunnel for yield evaluation.

Sixty (60) wheat wide crosses (F1) were planted in pots.

Designed and installed drip irrigation system on date fruit plants and spin-net sprinkler on nursery plants in green net tunnels at AZRI, Bahawalpur.

Designed drip irrigation system for ber fruit plants of one acre field of Tando Mohammad Khan field.

Evaluated performance indicators such as discharge and uniformity at different pressure head. The average discharge of spin net was 40 lph at 15 psi while the distribution uniformity was 88% which show satisfactory performance of the spin net at Kamrial field station.

Fifty honeybee Apis mellifera colonies were examined for Varroa destructor and Tropilaelaps clareae infestation placed at HBRI. The result indicated that thirty six and forty six honeybee colonies were found infested with both the mites respectively. For the control of honeybee parasite mites’ fluvalinate injection @ 01 injection per 01 liter water was mixed and sprayed 500ml on brood frames with hand plastic sprayer by placing mesh screen mites tray on the bottom board of each colony. The fluvalinate injection showed high efficacy for the control of both ecto- parasitic bee mites.

Development of different products from Cactus fruit is being tried on trial basis. Drink was prepared from cactus fruit with different formulations.

Data on germination of station agronomic trials on tillage & cropping system, nutrients management and Zn bio-fortification recorded

Harvested 6 acres maize seed production block of “Islamabad Gold”

Harvesting of hybrid seed production (6acres was completed).

Harvesting of selected single plants of cms, sterility maintainer lines and fertility restorer lines of PARSUN-3 was done.

Six acres approved Maize variety planted for quality seed was harvested and cobs drying are in progress, Millet, Sorghum and Sudan grass Germplasm genotypes were harvested, sun dried and threshed. Threshing of Millet seed increase is also in progress during the month under report.

Harvesting of aquatic plants (water lettuce) from bioremediation orchard and bioremediation garden sites to improve bioremediation potential of plants/microbes to bring used water under irrigation NEQ’s.

2. 2 Coordination Activities

Attended a PATCO display centre and PATCO partnership awards 2014 in NARC Auditorium on December 3, 2014 at 10:00 a.m.

A total of 432 germplasm accessions of various crop species were distributed including fennel (20) to Dr. Najma Yousaf, AP, Arid Agric Univ., Rawalpindi; chili (87) to Dr. Ata Ullah, AZRI, Umerkot; tomato (10) to Dr. M. Abid, AP, Bahaudin Zakriya

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Univ., Multan; tomato (11) to Dr. Sobia, AP, Bahaudin Zakriya Univ., Multan; okra (50) to Dr. Ikram, AP, Sargodha Univ.; white clover (1) and Medicago (1) to Dr. Sohail Yousaf, QAU; onion (14) to Dr. Mahmood, AP, Arid Agric Univ., Rawalpindi; wheat (52) to Dr. M. Sajjad, COMSATS, Vehari; wheat (80) to Dr. Ramzan, NIGAB, NARC; wheat (50) to Dr. Sh. Iqbal, PGRI; wheat (49) and Aegilops (7) to Ms Madiha, AP, Genetics Dept., Hazara Univ., Mansehra.

Delivered lecture on “Integrated water resources management for international training courses at NCRD during reporting period.

Collaborative activities were carried out with Agricultural University Sindh and International Karakuram University, Gilgat-Baltistan regarding ALP funded project “climate change adaptation for water management”

Visited Honey Market at Peshawar regarding networking of beekeepers and procurement of honey for PATCO on December 18, 2014.

Assisted PATCO for the procurement of quality ber and acacia honey and same were tested at Honey Analysis Lab.

A team of HBRI scientist/para-scientific staff visited Sialkot and Gujranwala markets for assessment of beekeeping equipments and accessories RADP Project titled “High quality honey production from Margalla hills during December 23-24, 2014.

Meeting was held with PATCO regarding registration and tender achievement from world food program and to enhance supply of multiple products for newly established PATCO display centre at NARC.

Meeting with API was held to finalize the training modules and lectures under different training projects like RADP/ JAICA.

Data spring maize of NUMYT (hybrids) Trials was analysed and results send to the Coordinator (Cereal Crops) PARC.

Sowing of wheat demonstration plot at farmer’s field in ICT

ASLP Mango Coordinator participated in five days global GAP implementation and certification workshop organized by APO, Japan at University of Karachi from December 15-19, 2014.

Conducted study visit of 30 (male) students of B. Sc. (Hons.), Balochistan Agriculture College, Quetta from 1000 to 1100 h on 18-12-2014. They were taken to LRRI, DPEP and CSI at the Centre.

Conducted study visit of 120 (male) DVM students of PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi from 1000 to 1100 h on 23-12-2014. They were escorted to LRS for briefing about different activities of the Centre.


Successfully conducted one-day workshop of a FAO funded project entitled “Enhancing understanding & implementation of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA)” on December 23, 2014 at PGRI, NARC.

Organized two technology specific FFDs and watershed rehabilitation project at Fath-e-jang. Participation was from GB

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through AKRSP and mini dams holders of district attock. Average participation was 50 farmers

Farmer Day on Pollination Management at Mango STEP Site Multan during December 1, 2014 under “Conservation & Management of Pollinators for Sustainable Agriculture through an Ecosystem Approach” was organized and thirty farmers including stakeholders participated in the event.

Four students from different universities are carrying out their M.Sc & Ph.D research.

Scientists of Rice Programme attended National Seminar “Rice Quality, Head recovery affected by harvest/thresh methodologies and milling practices” organized by ABEI-NARC, in MARIAN Hotel, Ottawa, Main G.T. Road, Gujranwala on Dec. 6, 2014.

Attended one day CIMMYT meeting “AIP Baseline Surveys: Progress and Results sharing Meeting on Dec. 17, 2014” by Dr. Muhammad Ashraf at NARC.

A booklet type document of National Insect Museum has been prepared and submitted to API, NARC for National level publication. This booklets has been designed for all Stakeholder of Agro-Ecosystems especially farmers and students.

4. Capacity Building /

Training/ Visit Conducted training on Rural Poultry Farming for rural women at

Tangi Khattak, Nowshera, 46 females participated in the training.

Conducted Citrus Nursery Raising training at Tangi Khattak, Nowshera for males, 28 citrus farmers participated in the training

Conducted Citrus Plant Protection training at Tangi Khattak, Nowshera for males, 28 participants

Participated in training on Monitoring and evaluation, conducted by NCRD, Dated 01-5 December 2014.

One PhD student from Hazara University, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa was trained in physiological parameters i.e., plant tissue chlorophyll a&b, proline, sodium and potassium analysis.

A number of research internees, M.Phil. and PhD students from academic institutions are being assisted in morphological, biochemical and molecular characterization of plant germplasm and trained in univariate & multivariate analysis techniques.

Participated in training workshop on “GPS data collection” organized by FAO at FAO office NARC on 29th Dec.

Participated in 6th meeting of the South and central Asiantework (SAKAM) organized by Museum of Natural History, Islamabad.

Under Global Pollinator Project titled “Conservation & Management of Pollinators for Sustainable Agriculture through an Ecosystem Approach a “Training of Master Trainers & Farmers Learning Group on Apple Pollinators” was organized with the collaboration of Agriculture Extension Department, District Bagh, AJ&K during December 13-15, 2014. The course participants included apple growers, beekeepers, students and other interested persons.

(central secretariat) subject: monthly major activity … monthly...o six member team of fauji...

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