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Page 1: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 2: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 3: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 4: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 5: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 6: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 7: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 8: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 9: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with
Page 10: 19th Edition - SAARC Agriculture Centre report/Annual Report 2014.pdf · Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with

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Salient Features of 2014 Programs The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) activities in 2014 are ensured to its success and is growing more interest in the agricultural research and innovation for development and technology dissemination as well as sustainable development goal in agriculture of the SAARC member countries. It has been developed linkages among agricultural scientists, technologists, researchers, extension service providers and policy makers of the South Asian Region through the establishment of regional networking for technology dissemination and providing input for regional cooperation in agriculture to face the common goals and challenges meet by the SAARC member countries. It provides a brief account on the happening of the Centre during the period from January to December 2014

SAC made a journey during 2014 as a regional platform for facilitating agriculture research for development. Besides the regular activities of the Centre, the few initiatives on thrust areas of agriculture like climate change impact, mite management of coconut, high yielding dairy buffalo breed development, use of geo-information technology for mapping of land degradation, regional, five adaptive trials on oilseed, cluster bean, rice varieties tolerant to abiotic stresses, pulses and vegetables. Also capacity development on fish processing quality control and hazard analysis, advances in poultry nutrition and feed technology and SAARC Pesticide information networking. Among the six objectives of the Centre, need based regional country studies were initiated and completed in 2014.

The important programs and salient features of activities for the year 2014 are stated below

� The 8th Governing Board Meeting of SAC � SAARC Charter Day celebration on 8 December 2014 � Regional Country study and adaptive research/trial � Capacity development � Information/technology dissemination � Seminars/Guest Lectures on agricultural research and innovation � Visit of the important personnel � New arrivals/Publications on regular and need based programs and sharing

among SAARC member countries

Increasing the technical capacity of the member countries in agriculture, SAC, organized two regional training (i) advances in poultry nutrition and feed technology (ii) fish processing quality control and hazard analysis and critical control. The

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trainings were very successful in ensuring the participation of the members and skill development of the participants.

To continue the dissemination of information on successful agricultural technologies, SAC collating, synthesis, compiled, editing and printed several manuscripts for wider distribution to the South Asian Regions for facilitating agriculture researchers, students and policy makers. To mention a few, SAARC Journal of Agriculture, SAARC AgriNews, Food grain situations in SAARC countries are important. The Centre collected 75 videos CDs from the region and distributed 950 video CDs on agro-technologies to interested agencies and individuals. In regular intervals, information on successful agro-technologies is broadcast in the television for wider dissemination.

The centre continues to diversify its program primarily to ensure inclusion of factors influencing agriculture production and also to promote holistic agriculture development policies. To attend the diversified program, SAC is gradually increasing its human resource capacity by inducting new professionals and promoting the existing professionals.

As one of the first SAARC regional centre, SAC has always remained concentrated with the member countries and the regional agriculture issues. As agricultural issues are becoming globalized and influenced by external factors, research and development focuses need to expand. In an effort to share our experiences with others and to take benefits of other organizations engaged in agriculture research and development related programs in the region, SAC tries to link with relevant institutions. For instance, SAC developed a Memorandum of Understanding with International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines to be partner in research and capacity development. SAC is initiating MoU with International Sericulture Commission to develop sericulture industry in the region. A close link is being developed with Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institute (APAARI). Within the region, similar collaborations are also foreseen with International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), Nepal, and ICRISAT. The Centre is working with CIRDAP for agriculture and rural development as well as national institutes of the SAARC member countries with their financial involvement.

With the success and experience gained from 2014 activities, the 8th Meeting of the SAC-Governing Board bestowed the centre with challenges to become professional and come at par with any international institution. In the spirit of enhancing SAC‟s relevance and eminence, the meeting advocated the need to collaborate with regional and international institutions in conducting regional agricultural research and

development, while taking the member country on board.

The Centre is now working on the very important program on adaptive trials/research on oilseed, cluster bean, rice varieties tolerant to abiotic stresses, pulses and vegetables and trying to develop networking among scientists. This on-going adaptive trials/research are fulfilling the wider objectives of the Centre.

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Agriculture Management Programs of SAC

Synthesis Report on Adaptation to Climate Change Impact on Crop

Production in SAARC Member Countries

A two-days Regional Expert Consultation Meeting on

“Adaptation to Climate Change Impact on Crop

Production in SAARC Member Countries” was

held at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council

(BARC), Dhaka, Bangladesh organized by SAARC

Agriculture Centre (SAC) in association with BARC

to identify impact of climate change on crop

production in member countries of SAARC and

suggest adaptation measures to protect crops from

damage due to climate change. During consultation

meeting, eleven (11) technical papers and one

synopsis paper was presented. All the resource

persons from SAARC member countries and others

participants of the consultation meeting discussed in the four groups on the

following thematic areas:

a) Research related issues

b) Development and Extension issues

c) Policies

d) Future prospects

At the end of the Consultation Meeting, recommendations were adopted in each

above thematic area. A synthesis report was prepared considering the presented

papers in the consultation and finally a book has been published in 2014 including

synthesis paper and all country papers

Synthesis Report

Climate change impacts in South Asia

South Asian countries are highly vulnerable to the climate change impacts due to

its size, physiographic location, population and resource endowment. Geography

coupled with high levels of poverty and population density has rendered South

Asia especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change (World Bank, 2008).

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Climate Change Adaptations in South Asia

Bangladesh

Climate change adaptation technologies in agriculture sector

Adaptations to climate change for agricultural sectors includes the resilient

variety, cropping pattern, irrigation techniques, sustainable land management,

early warning, research, subsidies, supply of inputs etc. The country is trying to

develop coping mechanism against natural hazards like floods, droughts, tidal-

surges etc.

Technology Special characteristics Varieties

Management

Package

Development for

Rice

saline tolerant rice

varieties

BRRI dhan 40, 41, 47, 53, 54, 55, and 61

submergence tolerant

varieties

BRRI dhan 51 and 52

medium heat tolerant BRRI dhan 24, 42 and 43 and dhan 57

short duration BRRI dhan 33 (110-120 days), BRRI dhan

39 (120 days), BINA dhan 7 (110-120 days)

tolerate 50cm high tidal

non-saline water

BRRI dhan 44

late sowing after flood BRRI dhan 22, 23 and 46

cold tolerant rice variety BRRI dhan 36

flood rehabilitation

situation and salt

tolerance

BINAsail and BINAdhan-8

flood prone area BINAdhan 11 and BINAdhan- 12

Management

Package

Development for

other crops

heat tolerant varieties BARI Gom 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24

Saline and Drought

prone areas

Wheat-BARI gom-25, Mustard-BARI

Sharisha -11, BARI Sharisha -16

Drought tolerant Wheat-BARI gom-26, Gram-BARI Chola 5,

Barley- BARI Barley 6, Sugarcane-Iswardi-

20

Saline tolerant Mustard-BARI Sharisha-10, Potato- Saikat,

Hog-plum- BARI Amra 1 and 2, Sugarcane-

Iswardi-38, 39 & 40, Ground nut - BINAchinabadam-5 BINAchinabadam-6

Non-saline areas BARI sweet potato-6 and 7

Heat and drought

tolerant

BARI hybrid tomato-3 and 4

Flood tolerant Sugarcane-Iswardi-34

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Technology Special characteristics Varieties

Other adaptation

technologies

supplementary irrigation

by mini pond water

farmers get additional

yield of 0.89 ton

(17.80%) of rice per

hectare from cultivating

HYV

Mini Pond: Mini pond now disseminating

in farmers field of northern region of

Bangladesh by Disaster and Climate Risk

Management in Agriculture Project, CDMP-

II, Department of Agriculture Extension Part

Adjusting planting time BRRI dhan 56 (short duration, 100-105

days, It can produce 3.50 ton even in

less than 20% soil moisture.) BRRI

dhan 57 (short duration, 110-115 days,

It can produce 3.00 ton even in less than

20% soil moisture).

Early harvest (short duration) rice

varieties: BRRI dhan 33 (110-120

days), BRRI dhan 39 (120 days), BINA

dhan 7 (110-120 days).

Cultivation of less water

loving crops like, maize,

wheat, linseed, pulses,

oil crops

The crops like maize, wheat, linseed, pulses,

oil crops was recommended for the farming

community for cultivation in different

seasons.

Alternative Wet and Dry

(AWD) method in

Drought Prone areas

It saved about 22 to 25% water by which

farmers saved about 1,791.00 TK per

hectare. no. of Irrigation saved in AWD

technology demonstrated plot is 4 than the

traditional Plot.

Farm Yard Manure

The organic matter content of soil in the

drought prone areas is exceptionally low as

0.8-1.2%, which can be supplemented by

FYM

Green manure Introduction of green manure crops into the

existing T. aman rice cultivation system can

also improve the fertility status and water-

holding capacity of the soil.

Cropping pattern Farmers of drought prone areas are

following Potato-BRRI dhan 28/BRRI

dhan29-BINA dhan-7. DCRMA Project

introduced Potato/wheat-T aus (BRRI

dhan48) - BINAdhan-7

In Barind area, DCRMA project introduced

T Aman Rice (BINA dhan-7)-Wheat (BARI

gom-25) –Mung bean (BARI mung-6) and T

Aman (BINAdhan-7)-Mustard (BARI

shorisha-14) –Mungbean (BARI mung-6)

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Technology Special characteristics Varieties

Zero or minimum tillage

to cultivate potato with

water hyacinth and straw

mulch

This practice can produce several different

types of crops (e.g. potato, aroid, groundnut,

chickpea, onion, garlic) using minimum

tillage in saline areas.

Water saving technology

in Saline area

Raised bed technology is used for vegetables

and fruit trees that decrease the salinity level

and increase the production. Mulching also

helps to increase the soil moisture level and

decrease the salinity of soil.

Relay cropping grass pea

(khesari) in aman rice

crop

Farmers cultivate different local aman

variety (Dudkalam, etc.) which is grown

during the monsoon under rainfed

conditions.

Sarjan method

cultivation

Intrusion of tidal water and thus flooding

into the crop land and homestead has been a

regular phenomenon, in some upazilas of the

Pirojpur district. Dig trench, raising land and

by this way producing various crops and

trees in the raised land. High beds, 1-2 m

wide, alternated with low beds of similar

size (called Sorjan) are constructed.

Late Varieties of Aman

Rice: Suitable Option for

Adapting Intense

Monsoon Rainfall

Farmers transplanted seedlings of BR 22,

BR 23, BRRI Dhan 46, and found

satisfactory production over 5 tons/ha

(CNRS 2012a ).

Floating Garden

Local communities have been practicing an

indigenous method of vegetables farming on

floating mats locally called “baira” (floating

garden/hydroponics). Floating garden is a

special kind of traditional livelihood practice

which people are adopting over the years in

flood-prone southern districts.

Bhutan

Adaptation program and activities

The conversion of wet land is prohibited to any other form of land use which

safeguards the land for rice cultivation.

The shifting cultivation which was quite rampant in the Eastern part of the

country has been banned and such farmers are provided with incentives to convert

such land into orchards and dry land farming.

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The promotion of organic program is vigorously pursued to reduce dependency

on external inputs like chemical fertilizers and agrochemicals. In addition, use of

bio- pesticides is being promoted.

All persistent and very hazardous groups of pesticides are banned. The removal of

subsidy on all kinds of pesticides since 1995 has brought down the use of agro-

pesticides.

Sustainable Land Management program which provides support for participatory

land management are given very high priority. Sustainable land management

includes measures like hedgerow plantation using fodder species which serve dual

purposes as a source of feed as well as protection against erosion.

The Government has adopted the Zero grazing policy so that the utilization of

animal waste are used properly which can be used to increase the yield of the

agriculture crops.

Land terracing, contour-bounding and building check dams to control soil erosion

are also promoted.

Management of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in order to reduce the risk

of washing away of arable land and properties due to downstream flood has been

accorded highest priority.

Implementation of pollution control strategies by the National Environmental

Commission in the Industries to prevent the untoward effect on crops due to

release of unwanted gases.

India

Adaptation program and technologies

Considering the extent and diversity of the agro-ecological zones, the research

institutions and universities are fully engaged in generation of agro-technologies

for climate change adaptation. In parallel there are numerous farmer initiated

technology adaptation and developments. Some of the examples are presented

below:

Technology/programs Specific features

Flood tolerant varieties Rice varieties Swarna-sub1, MTU-1010, MTU-1001 and

MTU-1140

Village level seed bank Participatory village level seed production of short duration,

drought and flood tolerant varieties was demonstrated in several

NICRA villages with the support of KVKs in rice, soybean,

groundnut, green gram, finger millet, foxtail millet and pigeon

pea. Breeder seed / foundation seed was sourced from research

farms for multiplication in farmers fields and the quality seed so

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Technology/programs Specific features

produced was mostly used in the village and nearby villages.

Farmer to farmer sale as truthful seed was the means of spread.

Reclaiming cultivable

wastelands

As per the plan, each farmer actively participated by

contributing his labour in laying out the bunds while the project

facilitated levelling of the land. Farmers took up shaping of the

bunds with increased height for better in situ rainwater

conservation and to prevent erosion by runoff.

Crop diversification

Intercropping of Setaria (foxtail millet, SIA-3085 variety) with

pigeonpea (5:1 ratio) sown in July

Intercropping of soybean + pigeonpea (4:2), pearl millet +

pigeonpea (3:3), pigeonpea + green gram (1:2) and cotton +

green gram (1:1) performed significantly better than their sole

crops at Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

Similarly, demonstrations on crop diversification by inclusion of

HYVs of black gram, sesamum, gobhi sarson, gram, lentil, toria

and okra were conducted in Said-Sohal village in Kathua district

of Jammu and Kashmir.

Building resilience in soil Soil testing and fertility management

Adapted cultivars and

cropping systems

Improved, early duration drought, heat and flood tolerant

varieties are introduced for achieving op/mum yields despite

climatic stresses.

Rainwater harvesting and

recycling

Construction of farm ponds

Water saving technologies direct seeded rice, zero tillage and other soil-water conservation

practices

Livestock and fishery

interventions

Proper management of pond, fodder and livestock

Weather based agro

advisories

Develop and issue customized agro advisories and improve

weather literacy among farmers

Village Climate Risk

Management Committee

Community based group to coordinate climate risk management

Stress tolerant crop varieties Developed and released nearly 3,300 high-yielding

varieties/hybrids of field crops for different agro-ecologies

Nepal

Adaptation program and technologies

Adaptation includes policies, strategies, program, plans and activities that help

people and ecosystems reduce the vulnerability to the adverse impacts of climate

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change and minimize the costs of climate related disasters. It aims is to reduce the

climate-related vulnerability and empower the farm community to effectively

cope with current climatic variability and to adapt to the unexpected

consequences of climate change. To develop coherent adaptation program, main

factors causing vulnerability of climate change should be understood. Lesser

awareness of policy makers on the serious impact of climate change on

development as well as unavailability of legal and regulatory framework for

managing effect and risks of climate change in the short, medium and long term

are the important factors causing the level of vulnerability to climate change. In

view point of reducing the impacts of climate change and its variability, the

adaptation measures and strategies should be considered from local level to

national level.

Adaptation strategy Technology

Community

Indigenous

Knowledge on Crop

management with the

climate variability

- Farmers of Kaski district are constructing ponds for run-off water

collection and conservation during monsoon season and use the

collected water in dry season for vegetable farming as drip

irrigation,

- Construction of drainage channel in Bari (sloppy) lands to check

soil erosion from intense rainfall,

- Farmers delayed transplanting of millet till August in spite of June

transplanting in Kaski district,

- Cultivation of potato on heap of soil to reduce loss of soil

moisture,

- Farmers started to plant wheat in December instead of November

for proper germination due to condensation of dew in the year of

early withdrawal of monsoon. Generally, wheat is grown in

residual moisture after rice harvesting,

- Potatoes are now growing in rows that require less irrigation water

to cope with drought,

- Due to drought, irrigated Khet (paddy) lands in some of the hilly

districts are converted to rainfed and rice has been replaced by

millet and mustard. Farmers are also growing drought tolerant

crops in semi-irrigated lands,

- Mustard replaced wheat which requires less water,

- In the flooding area of Bardiya and Kailali district (far-western

development region), community farmers are growing

watermelon, sesame, black gram, peanut and sweet potato to cope

with stress condition,

- Leguminous crops are introducing in cropping system,

- Use of more number of seedlings per hills in the eastern Terai

(Jhapa and Morang districts) plains, which helps in reducing the

risk of drought damage.

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Adaptation strategy Technology

Short-term adaptation

measures

- Rehabilitation and networking of existing irrigation system and

promotion of rain water harvesting technology in order to prevent

crop failures caused by drought in drought prone areas thus

reduces drought risk and increased planting index,

- Strengthen existing community based early warning flood

prevention systems to reduce the crop losses from water

inundation and promotion of runoff harvesting as well as building

water storage systems during periods of intense rains,

- Use of more heat and drought tolerant crop/varieties in rainfed

areas where precipitation and increased temperature poses the risk

of crop failure,

- Develop and promote resource conservation agriculture

technology as minimum tillage and zero tillage practices for rice,

wheat, maize and legumes to reduce carbon and water loss from

soil, particularly in the Terai and hill region,

- Application of soil conservation practices particularly in the hilly

and mountain areas,

- Limiting practices of mono-cropping to reduce vulnerability of

farmers to weather-related events,

- Identification, documentation, demonstration and extension of

existing available climate resilient production technologies,

- Provision of good quality seeds to vulnerable groups and of

appropriate varieties by agro-ecological region,

- Revitalizing research and extension programs in the areas of

institution, human resources, methodologies and supporting

facilities for extension activities,

- Development of strong extension and communication system to

deliver the climate resilient technologies at community level,

- Promote available post-harvest practices to manage climate related

risks proactively.

- Promote crop diversification programs like multiple and mixed

cropping systems which gives better insurance averting the risk of

crop failure with diversified income source and natural resources

conservations;

- Broaden extension services and research programs to help farmers

introduce new adaptive technologies and farming practices related

to crop production

Medium-term

adaptation measures

(4-5 years)

- Implementing climate change adaptation strategies outlined in

different agriculture policies and frameworks to promote resilience

and sustainable development,

- Capacity building programs at government level aimed at

enhancing knowledge and understanding of the key challenges of

climate change in crop production,

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Adaptation strategy Technology

- Enhance knowledge, innovation and good practices and training

and general education for climate change adaptation for the rural

population considering the gender to help improve their

knowledge on adaptive farming practices,

- Formulation and implementation of the strategy of agricultural

research and development institutions to help them address

identified adaptation needs and priorities, while at the same time

considering the financial and human resources investments

necessary for this; possible creation of a special Climate Change

Adaptation Cell where ever required,

- Strengthening of present crop monitoring system in order to better

monitor crops and to provide early warning information to the

farmers,

- Development and implementation of early warning systems for

flood prevention in affected areas,

- Promotion of crop diversification with crops suitable to local

conditions within appropriate regions,

- Provision of support for daily, weekly and seasonal climate

outlooks by making available to the farm community,

- There is a need to radically depart from reliance on rain-fed food

production through heavy utilization of irrigation. There is

therefore the need for adequate provision of irrigation and

drainage infrastructures which could be regarded as crucial for

climate change adaptation,

- Development of plans for short-term measures to adapt to water

shortages and thus mitigate drought,

- Documentation and utilization of indigenous knowledge on

coping climate change impact and

- Development of strategy, plan and program for Climate Smart

Agriculture.

Long-term adaptation

measures (10-15

years)

- Increased investment aiming at strengthening research and

development institutions for developing climate resilient and

climate change adaptive agricultural technologies and its

communication at the community level,

- Develop new crop varieties and breeds resistant to heat, drought,

new pests and diseases,

- Promotion of studies to identify areas of opportunity in the

different agro-ecological regions of the country in terms of soil

and water conservation,

- Elaborating risk maps for the different agro-ecological regions of

the country,

- Continuous promotion of contingency planning at all level,

- Identification and promotion of risk sharing and transfer

mechanism at community level,

- Establish strategic partnership in an interdisciplinary and sectoral

approach at all the level

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Adaptation strategy Technology

- Strengthening local capacity to cope with the climate change

impact in agricultural production and deal with vulnerability and

uncertainty by developing regular monitoring, vulnerability

assessment and reporting mechanism,

- Strategies to promote public and private awareness and

participation in climate change adaptation in agriculture,

- Strengthen the related institution to develop climate-forecasting

and early warning systems for reducing hazards in the agriculture

and effective distribution of information to farmers,

- Introduction of weather-indexing crop insurance system by

integrating micro-finance programs,

- Programs to establish crop insurance covering losses due to

flooding and drought,

- Increased investments for rehabilitation and construction of

efficient irrigation schemes,

- Develop interactive communication for transfer of technologies to

farmers about climate change and its impacts on crop production,

- Developing continuous regional and international collaboration

and coordination in terms of information sharing on adaptive

farming practices and new farming technologies to help cope with

vulnerabilities,

- Diversifying the livelihood strategy to include income from other

farming and non-farming activities,

- Program and investment to establish seed bank at community level

for seed security and crop/variety diversity at the time seed

scarcity and

- Vulnerability study on the effect of future climate change on crop

production using different decision support tools.

Pakistan

Adaptation to climate change impact

Agriculture is central to human survival and is probably the human enterprise

most vulnerable to change in climate. Agriculture sector is the life line and the

single largest sector of Pakistan‟s economy and is greatly affected by short term

climate variability and could be harmed significantly by long-term climate

change. As the duration of crop growth cycle is related to temperature, an increase

in temperature will speed up crop growth and shorten the duration between

sowing and harvesting. This shortening could have an adverse effect on

productivity of food and fodder crops.

Similarly the hydrological cycle is also likely to be influenced by global warming,

necessitating the agriculture and livestock sectors, particularly in rain-fed areas, to

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adapt to these climatic changes. Since the agriculture sector is heavily dependent

on the water sector and water resources are inextricably linked with climate;

hence, the projected climate change has serious implications for Pakistan‟s water

resources and agriculture sector. The freshwater resources, in Pakistan, are based

on snow- and glacier-melt and monsoon rains, both being highly sensitive to

climate change.

To address the impact of climate change on water resources and to help in

enhancing water security, the Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with

relevant entities planned to take the following adaptation measures that are also

related to the agriculture sector:

Assess and address the needs for additional water storages and distribution

infrastructure;

Ensure early rehabilitation, remodelling and up gradation of the existing

irrigation infrastructure in the country to make it resilient to climate change

related extreme events;

Ensure water conservation, reduction in irrigation system losses and provide

incentives for adaptation of more efficient irrigation techniques;

Introduce local rain harvesting measures.

Ensure recycling of wastewater through proper treatment and reuse it in

agriculture, artificial wetlands and groundwater recharge etc;

Promote public awareness campaigns to underscore the importance of

conservation and sustainable use of water resources.

With this background, a number of initiatives have been taken to enhance the

resilience in existing cropping systems so that farming community, the end users,

in agriculture may be able to cope with the adverse effects of climate change.

Notable achievements are briefly described here.

Adaptation program Technologies

Bio-remediation and

Integrated Farming

Treatment of used water and contaminated soil through

bioremediation processes. Committed to conserve 23 MAF

waste water per annum to meet irrigation requirements,

eliminate environmental pollution posed by it, reclaim water,

land and improve agricultural productivity.

Integrated farming is second component exercising in the field

of livestock, fodder, poultry, fruits and vegetables, honey bee,

alternate energy resources (biogas plants) and sericulture

practices to create a model for various stake holders through

use of bio-remediated water thus putting step towards poverty

elimination.

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Adaptation program Technologies

Wheat Program at National

Agricultural Research Centre

development of new varieties

of crops which are high

yielding, resistant to heat

stress, drought tolerant, less

vulnerable to heavy spells of

rains, and less prone to

insects and pests.

mungbean-wheat rotation has advantages over the traditional

fallow-wheat rotation

Improving the crop

productivity per unit of land

and per unit of water

increasing the efficiency of various agricultural inputs, in

particular irrigation water is another adaptation strategy which

is also one of the interventions of National Climate Change

Policy.

Introduction of Plastic Film

Mulching Technology in

Sugarcane

Have the advantages of 15-25% higher germination, moisture

preservation for 80- 90 days, weed control up to 80%, keeping

salts below the roots and increase in fertilizer uptake

efficiency. This technology is now being tested at farmers‟

fields for evaluation of common plastic film mulching

(Chinese) and locally manufactured herbicidal film. Keeping in

view the results observed so far studies for improvement in

local manufacturing of herbicidal plastic film for control of

narrow leaf weeds are under consideration.

Introduction of Aerobic Rice

Production Technology

Aiming at conserving water and enhancing the paddy yield.

Under this technology the paddy crops do not need standing

water necessary for the crop but cultivated like wheat and

maize crops. It was claimed that by using the technology the

farmers in the country can not only enhance their production

but also conserve water in the rice cultivating areas.

Crop Management in Wheat

In rice-wheat area use of zero-tillage drill can help in timely

planting. It also reduces the cost of cultivation and saves

irrigation water. Similarly, relay cropping can be used in

cotton-wheat zone in which cotton field is irrigated without

cutting the cotton crop and then moist wheat seed is

broadcasted. Bed sowing is another good option in cotton zone

which results in early planting, water saving and better wheat

crop stand. In sugarcane zone government may ensure timely

purchase of sugarcane from growers by sugar mills so that

wheat could be planted in the area well in time and thus

increasing the crop production. At present, due to delay of

wheat planting in this zone, about 10-15% yield is reduced.

Availability of Plant Genetic

Resources

Research in various disciplines for boosting crop productivity

for ensuring food security in the country on sustainable basis

and keeping the eye on future needs.

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Sri Lanka

Adaptation to climate change impact

Farming systems and agronomic practices in most agricultural regions of Sri

Lanka have evolved in close harmony with the prevailing climatic conditions of

respective climatic regions of the island. Climate variability has always been a

threat to the food security in Sri Lanka especially in the Dry and Intermediate

zones where major portion of paddy and other field crops are cultivated.

Following list gives a comprehensive account of such adaptation strategies while

some of them still can play a vital role in reducing the vulnerability of agriculture

sector to the climate change in today‟s context.

Adaptation strategies Technologies

Current crop management

practices of farmers and

agriculture professionals on

mitigating climate variability

impacts

- Multiple cropping in rainfed upland cultivation (Chena

cultivation)

- Blending traditional agriculture with modern agricultural

technologies

- Use of short-age crop and varieties

- Use of quality seeds and planting materials

- Use of drought resistant traditional varieties

- Application of organic manure and mulching

- Integration of livestock in to agriculture

- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches

- Integrated Plant Nutrient Systems (IPNS) approaches

- Adoption of agro-forestry concepts

- Home gardening

- Soil and water conservation measures in highlands

- Use of shallow ground water for supplementary

irrigation (Agro-wells)

- Shifting of annual cropping lands to perennial fruit crops

or plantation crops

- Vertical agriculture in urban environments

- Intensive agriculture in protected houses

- Use of micro irrigation in both annual and perennial

cropping systems

- Micro-financing with reduced interest rates by the

government‟s bank

- Supply of chemical fertilizers under a subsidy scheme

- Adherence to crop recommendations stipulated by

respective government agencies

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Opportunity for up-scaling

The impact of climate change can vary in terms of scale but largely have similar

effects in all countries. The vulnerability of all countries in the region to climate

change impacts is generally comparable. Within the global initiatives, all

countries are committed to the international conventions and have instituted

national frameworks as was deemed necessary. In view of the severity of climate

change impacts, adaptation strategies are evolved at local level by farmers and

communities, regional and national level. Many of the adaptation strategies and

technologies are very successful and have potentials for up-scaling; some of them

are listed below:

If adaptations are classified into three (autonomous, anticipatory, and reactive),

agricultural technologies can also be classified accordingly for easy appreciating

their purpose and benefits.

Types of

adaptation

Technologies/strategies for up-scaling

Autonomous - Adoption of agro-forestry concepts

- Home gardening

- Soil and water conservation measures in highlands

- Adjustment of cropping patterns and crops

- Community based management/support group

Anticipatory - Agricultural advisory services (India), Early warning systems – engaging

community

- Use of shallow ground water for supplementary irrigation (Agro-wells)

- Shifting of annual cropping lands to perennial fruit crops or plantation

crops

- Vertical agriculture in urban environments

- Intensive agriculture in protected houses

- Program and investment to establish seed bank at community level for

seed security and crop/variety diversity at the time seed scarcity and

- Develop new crop varieties and breeds resistant to heat, drought, new

pests and diseases,

- Introduction of weather-indexing crop insurance system by integrating

micro-finance programs,

Reactive - Bio-remediation and Integrated Farming

- Micro-financing with reduced interest rates by the government‟s bank

- Use of micro irrigation in both annual and perennial cropping systems

- Aerobic Rice Production Technology

- Plastic Film Mulching Technology

- Community based early warning flood prevention systems

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In addition to the specific technologies that can be up-scaled, the information dissemination and capacity development program needs to be implemented to enhance the resilience of the community.

- Develop interactive communication for transfer of technologies to farmers about climate change and its impacts on crop production,

- Promote public awareness campaigns to underscore the importance of conservation and sustainable use of water resources.

- Develop local institutions (community-based) and capacitate them with skills, tools and resources to service climate change adaptation programs.

- Developing continuous regional and international collaboration and coordination in terms of information sharing on adaptive farming practices and new farming technologies to help cope with vulnerabilities.

- Sharing of germplasm of crop/livestock/fisheries and innovative technologies among SAARC Member Countries

- Application of GIS, remote sensing and cropping systems models (APSIM, DSSAT, Info Crop) as a tools to generate appropriate crop management strategies

- Capacity building of farmers for adopting innovative technologies

- Prioritize the adaptation measures for different farming systems (homestead production, cropping systems, livestock and fisheries, agroforestry) to promote climate smart agriculture

- Introduce curriculum of climate change: mitigation and adaptation in agricultural universities

Way forward-proposition of the SAARC experts

The SAARC regional expert consultation meeting on “Adaptation to Climate

Change Impact on Crop Production in SAARC member countries” organized at

Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council; Dhaka, Bangladesh during 23-24

November 2013 contemplated future directions under three broad categories and

committed to collaborate to collectively address the issue of climate change.

Policy - Regional seed bank for exchange of quality Seeds during disasters

- Ensuring availability of quality inputs, credit and placement of appropriate crop

insurance mechanisms in each member countries

- Strong representation of agriculture sector in international climate change

negotiations

- Encourage South-South cooperation in finding solutions for climate change

impacts on agriculture

- Establish a Central Climate Change Secretariat at the focal point Ministry of the

United Nations Frame for Climate Change (UNFCC) in each member country

having a strong linkage with relevant ministry to coordinate climate change

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related activities in agriculture of each member country involving all the stake

holders engaged in research, development and policy formulation to address

climate change issues

- Review existing investments and subsidies in the context of adaptation

measures and promote the concept of Climate Smart Agriculture at local, regional

and national level

- Strengthen the seasonal climate forecasting capacity with a considerable lead time

with the help of SAARC member countries in information generation and

dissemination through ICT

- Strengthening and institutionalization of agricultural research and development

through increased investment for developing climate change adaptive and resilient

agricultural technologies

- Network among SAARC member countries to form climate change alliance in the

region

- Promote private sector participation and investment in climate change adaptation

and mitigation initiatives

- Encourage to maintain the gender concerns in climate change adaptation and

mitigation interventions

Research - Breeding for stress tolerant and short duration varieties to fit in the cropping

systems

- Development and promotion of location specific efficient technologies to reduce

GHG emission in each member countries of SAARC as per their demand and

need

- Risk analysis of emerging pests, diseases and weeds, and technological measures

to minimize risk

- Identification and promotion of the use of traditional knowledge and community

based practices like on-farm water management, water shed management, rain

water harvesting and improvement of soil management practices for adaptation

- Use of different climate modelling tools for evidence based policy advocacy to

enhance resilience of agriculture through technologies and natural resource

management.

- Application of GIS and Remote sensing technologies for enhanced capacity of

adaptation to climate change

Developm

ent and

Extension

- Regional collaboration and cooperation in agriculture for identification,

documentation and sharing of successful climate smart technologies among the

SAARC countries through involvement of different stakeholders and arrange

exposure visits for successful cases coordinated by SAC

- Capacity building for the research and extension personnel on climate smart

technologies

- Use of ICT (Mobile, Mass Media-Community Radio, website, Television

including satellite channels in extension, use Agromet Bulletins) for agro-

advisory weather forecasting system

- Promote self help or framers‟ groups at local level for dissemination of climate

related issues including adaptation measures and policies

- Diversification of the production systems to reduce climate risk and link

technologies across the Value Chain

- Promotion of integrated farming system approach, farm mechanization for small

holder agriculture, resource conservation agriculture (e.g. zero tillage, bed

planting) and prototype exchange among the SAARC countries

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Adaptive Trials in SAARC member countries

Experts Consultation Meeting for Inception on Identification of Rice

Varieties Tolerant to Abiotic Stresses for adaptive trial in SAARC countries

A regional consultation meeting on “Identification of Rice Varieties Tolerant to

Abiotic Stresses in SAARC countries” which is grown successfully in adverse

climatic situation towards ensuring food security among the SAARC countries

was held in Bangladesh during 10-11 June 2014. The event was jointly organized

by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), Bangladesh Agricultural Research

Council (BARC) and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Renowned

agricultural scientists and policy makers from SAARC countries (Bangladesh,

Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) participated in the event.

SAC undertook this demand driven program to identify high yielding rice

varieties sown under abiotic stress conditions in different environments of

SAARC countries and organized a consultative meeting to discuss as to how the

network could be initiated to encourage and stimulate national partners in

SAARC region to commit themselves to exchange and share rice varieties among

themselves and to enhance and expedite the process of varietal releases to their

farmers through multi-location uniform evaluation trials.

Goal

This study was undertaken to identify high yielding rice varieties sown under

abiotic stress conditions in different environments of SAARC countries in order

to stabilize rice production under abiotic stress environment.

Consultation Meeting

In the meeting, Dr. Uma Shankar

Singh, a renowned rice scientist

and South Asia Regional

Coordinator of Stress Tolerant

Rice for Africa and South Asia

project (STRASA) highlighted the

newly developed stress tolerant

rice varieties under STRASA

project. Dr. U. S. Singh confirmed

that a number of multiple-stress

tolerant rice varieties are in the process of being released soon while he

mentioned that the variety are in the pipeline which can overcome at least three

stress conditions like salinity, zinc deficiency and iron toxicity. Also he pointed

that another variety is being to develop which has salt proof nature as well as

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biotic stress tolerant capacity. Most of the scientists from different SAARC

countries pointed that scientists should also be focused on developing more

farmer-friendly rice variety.

In the consultations, it was discussed that drought, submergence, salinity, cold

and heat are becoming an alarming threat to crop production due to climate

change, and these are increasing year after year. In Bangladesh, the entire coastal-

belt is going to be barren lands in boro season due to increased salinity. In

monsoon, submergence in low-lying areas is now a common phenomenon where

farmers are not getting good harvests due to flash-floods. Inadequate rainfall in

transplanting, growth, and fruiting stage of aman rice cultivation is hindering the

farm households to get good yield. Cold havoc for a certain period in winter

season is destroying the rice seedlings in seedbed. Also due to extreme

temperature, the rice panicles are becoming sterile while now-a-days farmers are

getting poor yield. Almost similar problems are faced by the other SAARC

countries while it is understood that a number of most suitable stress tolerant rice

varieties have been developed recently by the different SAARC countries. Most

of these newly developed stress tolerant rice varieties can overcome such adverse

situation. After discussions, a number of most suitable stress-tolerant rice varieties

have been identified by the SAARC delegates. Those varieties can be tested

among the SAARC countries in their locality.

Regarding salt tolerant rice variety,

the delegates identified the rice

variety as Binadhan-10 and BRRI

dhan61 in dry season in

Bangladesh; CR dhan406, 403, and

405 in India; KSK 287, 133, and

434 in Pakistan; and Bg 369, and

AT 354 in Sri Lanka which can

survive up to 10-12 dS/meter in

salinity condition. In relation to

submergence tolerant rice variety,

the scientists identified the rice variety as BRRI dhan51, 52, Binadhan11, and 12

in Bangladesh; Swarna Sub1, and IR64 Sub1 in India; Samba Mahsuri Sub1 in

Nepal; and Bg 96-741 in Sri Lanka are suitable in 15 days submergence

condition. To overcome drought condition, the participants selected the variety as

BRRI dhan56, 57, and BU dhan 1 in Bangladesh; Shahabagi, and Pyari in India;

Sukha dhan-2, and 3 in Nepal as the drought tolerant rice variety which can

overcome at least two weeks drought condition in aman season. Regarding cold

tolerant rice variety, the delegates identified the variety as No.11 (Japonica),

Yusiey, and Khap in Bhutan; Chandan in India; Khumal 8 and 10 in Nepal;

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Fakhre-Malakand in Pakistan; BR18 in Bangladesh, which can survive coldness

in winter season. Regarding heat tolerance, the delegates identified the rice

variety only IR6 and KSK133 varieties are available in Pakistan while two heat

tolerant rice varieties are in process to release in India as expressed by the Indian

Delegate. No other SAARC countries have any heat tolerant rice variety yet,

while Bangladesh observed the highest temperature this year since 1950.

No. of varieties to be shared by member countries

Country Drought

Tolerant

Salinity

Tolerant

Cold

Tolerant

Heat

Tolerant

Submergence

Tolerant

Bangladesh 3 4 2 - 3

Bhutan - - 2 - -

India 2 4 2 2 2

Nepal 2 - 2 - 1

Pakistan - 3 1 2 -

Sri Lanka - 2 - - 1

No. of locations for adaptive trials

Countries Trials to be sown

Bangladesh Drought, Salinity, Cold, Heat, Submergence Stresses

Bhutan Drought Stress

India Drought, Salinity, Cold, Heat, Submergence Stresses

Nepal Drought, Cold, Heat, Submergence Stresses

Pakistan Drought, Salinity, Cold, Heat, Submergence Stresses

Sri Lanka Drought, Salinity, Cold, Heat, Submergence Stresses

Recommendations

Varieties tolerant to abiotic stresses to

be shared by member countries

Professionals from member countries

(Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal,

Pakistan and Sri Lanka), IRRI and

local participants from 11 Institutes

identified five areas of abiotic

stresses.

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1) Drought stress, 2) Salinity stress, 3) Cold stress, 4) Heat stress, 5)

Submergence stress.

Focal point experts from member countries committed to share the varieties for

adaptive trials. Collaborative experiments in form of adaptive trial will be

conducted in each participating country. On the basis of performance, varieties

will be identified for different regions.

Introduction of cluster bean in SAARC Countries by adaptive

trial

Cluster bean (Guar) [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub] is a drought tolerant,

summer annual legume, well adapted to arid and semi arid areas of the region.

Although, Guar is considered to be a minor crop, it has a larger role among the

domesticated plants that supply the food and needs of human beings as it contains

a high content of nutritional quality protein. This study is undertaken to introduce

cluster bean crop in SAARC countries as a new industrial/ commercial crop in

SAARC countries.

Objectives

Introduction of cluster bean as a new industrial/ commercial crop in SAARC

countries.

Evaluation of cluster bean varieties in non-traditional areas.

Under the initiatives

On the basis of results on successful cultivation of this crop in SAARC countries, a project would be launched for;

Early maturing, drought tolerant, disease resistant and high yielding varieties and germplasm rich in „Galactomannan‟ would be identified and shared in a network approach;

Best practices would be identified;

Overall knowledge base within the countries would be shared; and

It is decided to collect 2-3 high yielding varieties of cluster bean from Pakistan and India, and send to the member countries for appraisal of successful cultivation in SAARC countries. Each participating country will conduct trials in main cropping season of 2015. There should be three (3) locations per country. Depending on the progress and further interest of member countries, it may be further expanded and carried forward as adaptive trial especially targeting small/ marginal farmers of the region.

SAC is responsible to coordinate/facilitate the activities related to the network. SAC has to collect and provide observations to be made, standard data sheets and other recording material from SAARC member countries.

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Expert consultation meeting for inception on Regional Adaptive

Trials on Oilseeds in SAARC Countries

Besides cereals, oilseed is one of the valuable and desired crops in the SAARC region for achieving food and nutritional security. Considering the importance of oilseeds, SAC identified the urgent need of sharing the genetic resources amongst the SAARC member countries. As such, SAC in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Renewable Natural Resources – Research and Development Centre, Yusipang organized an expert consultative meeting for inception on “Regional adaptive trials on oilseeds in SAARC countries” during 28-29 May 2014 in Bhutan.

During meeting, it was decided to collect varieties/ promising lines of rapeseed/mustard, groundnut, soybeans, sesame and safflower from SAARC member countries for adaptive trials to be sown in member counties. The experts from member countries also designed detail modalities and took several decisions for effective implementation of the programme in the SAARC region. This study will be undertaken to identify high yielding oilseed crops varieties sown in different environments of SAARC Region.

Objectives of the oilseeds Adaptive Trial

• To identify high yielding, drought tolerant, disease and insect-pest resistant cultivars/germplasm of oilseed crops

• Promotion of oilseeds with complete package of practices within each country through adaptive trial

• Promising cultivars selected from the trials will be submitted to relevant national regulatory bodies of variety release by focal points of individual countries

• Sharing of successful technologies, knowledge and best practices among the region would help sustainable development of oilseeds.

Focal Point Experts from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka participated in the meeting. Professionals from various agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forest, Bhutan i.e. National Seed Centre (NSC), Agriculture Machineries (AMC), Council for RNR Research of Bhutan (CORRB), RNR-Research and Development Centres, Bajo, Yusipang and Wengkhar also participated in the meeting.

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During technical sessions, country status on oilseed crops was presented by Focal

Point Experts. Each technical session was followed by discussion. Focal point

experts from member countries committed to share the varieties for adaptive

trials. Collaborative experiments in form of adaptive trial will be conducted in

each participating country. On the basis of performance, varieties will be

identified for different regions.

Recommendations

It is recommended that Adaptive trial on common oilseed crops in SAARC

member countries may be planned to identify the most suitable and wider

adaptive lines/varieties for different countries.

• Meeting agreed that SAC would coordinate adaptive trials on Rapeseed-

Mustard (16 varieties), Groundnut (11 varieties), Soybean (11 varieties),

Sesame (12 varieties), and Safflower (9 varieties). Participating countries will

include one local variety as check.

• SAC should develop a mechanism to facilitate exchange of germplasm within

SAARC member countries and other International Institutions through

common collaborative research program and MoU among the SAARC

member countries.

• Bilateral exchange of scientific technical expertise and farmers, SAC can

facilitate such exchange.

• Establish Regional Institute for Oilseeds Research and Development as the

oilseed group of crops are not being dealt by any international

institute/organization under CGIAR.

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No. of varieties to be shared by member countries

Country Rapeseed/Mustard Groundnut Sesame Soybean Safflower

Afghanistan - - - - 1

Bangladesh 3 2 3 1 1

Bhutan 1 - - 1 -

India 5 4 5 6 4

Nepal 2 - - - 1

Pakistan 3 3 2 2 2

Sri Lanka 2 2 2 2 -

SAARC Vegetable Adaptive Trial Network (SVATNet)

SAARC Vegetable Adaptive Trial Network in SAARC region (SVATNeT) for

the following rationale:

1. To serve as an effective

instrument for exchange of

material, sharing of scientific

knowledge, human resource

development and pooling

synergies of research and

development efforts of

SAARC countries.

2. Identify better varieties in

different countries based on

results obtained from

SVATNeT trials and improve

vegetable productivity and

production in SAARC region.

In turn this would ensure

nutritional security in the

region and livelihood security

of farming communities.

3. Enhance visibility of public

sector in vegetable seeds

which is now dominated by

private sector.

SAARC Vegetable Adaptive

Trials Network

The 6th

TCARD meeting held during 10-

12th

October 2010 endorsed the proposal

of regional workshop to initiate regional

activity on vegetable. Subsequently SAC

included the activity in its 2011 program

and convened an inception workshop in

Dhaka during 16-17 November 2011. The

adaptive trial has been started in SAARC

member since 2012 with selected five

vegetables (Tomato, Brinjal, Okra,

Pumkin and Cucumber). In 2012, winter

season trial was done as well as a review

meeting was held in India

During 2013 and 2014, winter and

summer season trials were done and a

review meeting in 2013 was held in

Bhutan.

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Some vegetable varieties included in the regional trial

As agreed the participating countries and institutions contributed 28 varieties

/lines of different vegetable for the trial (Table 1).

Vegetable varieties/lines received from SAARC Countries and AVRDC

Crops/

Country/

Organization

Variety/Line Crops/

Country/

Organization

Variety/Line

Brinjal/Eggplant Tomato

Bangladesh 1. BARI Begun 6 Bangladesh 1. BARI Tomato 14

2. BARI Begun 8 2. BARI Tomato 15

Pakistan 3. Dilnasheen Nepal 3. NCL 1

4. Nirala Pakistan 4. Riogrande

Sri Lanka 5. Padagoda 5. Nagina

6. SM 164 Sri Lanka 6. Thilina

AVRDC 7. V1050264 (TS 02598) 7. Tharindu

8. V1046096 (TS 02252) 8. Ravi

Cucumber AVRDC,

Taiwan

9. AVTO1130(CLN3126A-7)

Nepal 1. Kusle 10. AVTO1132(CLN3078 I)

Pakistan 2. Sialkot Selection Pumpkin

Sri Lanka 3. Champion Bangladesh 1. BARI Mistikumra

Okra Nepal 2. Jante

Nepal 1. Parvati Pakistan 3. NARC 2007

Pakistan 2. Sabaz Peri Sri Lanka 4. Ruhuna

Sri Lanka 3. Haritha

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SAARC Pulse Adaptive Trial Network (SPATNet)

Pulses are important in terms of nutrition and subsistence farming. Many species

of food legumes are grown at diverse agro-ecological zones. Pulses play a vital

role in crop diversification, increasing cropping intensity, restoration of soil

fertility and breaking disease cycles. Tender pods and green seeds are eaten as

vegetables, and mature dried seeds cooked whole, split, broken or ground.

Sprouted seeds are consumed as salad, while some of the beans are used as

roasted like groundnuts. Certain by-products, and soybean cakes, are used in

livestock and poultry feed. Pulses are valuable export/ import commodity in world

trade. To make a comprehensive analysis of the scenario of pulse production and

its potentials SAC organized regional consultation meeting

Pulse area and production

In world, pulses (solely harvested for dry grains) are grown on 71,210,131

hectares with production of 59,465,125 tonnes and productivity of 835 kg ha-1

(FAO 2009). While the area of pulses are is decreasing, production is in

increasing trend although at a slow pace (Figure 1). The world population is in

increasing trend, however, the static pulse production showed the deficit of

pulses.

Change in pulse area and production in SAARC countries between 1999 and 2009

India is the largest producer (23% share in area) and consumer of grain legumes

in world. The regional studies show that, India occupies the major share in area

(90.4%) and production (89.7%), followed by Pakistan (7% area and production),

and the least in Bhutan (Figure 2). In Bangladesh, area and production has

declined by almost half. Pulse yield data for Afghanistan and Bhutan over

estimate the mean grain yield of the region. Overall, there has been a slight

increment in grain yield over time. Majority of pulses are grown as rainfed crops

in marginal land with minimum inputs. However, in India and Sri Lanka less than

20% pulse area is irrigated. Major pulses lentil and chickpea are grown in residual

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soil moisture as relay crop or after the harvest of rice either as sole crops or as

mixtures with other grain legumes or oilseed crops.

A two-day consultation meeting for

inception on “Regional Initiation

on Improvement of Pulses and

Adaptive Trials in SAARC

Member Countries” was organized

at National Bureau of Plant Genetic

Resources, Pusa Campus, New

Delhi jointly organized by SAARC

Agriculture Centre and Indian

Council of Agricultural Research,

New Delhi, India. This meeting

was organized as follow-up of the

recommendations of the Regional

SAARC Workshop on pulses

organized by SAC held in

Kathmandu, Nepal.

Output of the meeting

Developed the modalities through inception meeting for pulse adaptive trial in

SAARC Member Countries

Lentil, Blackgram and Mungbean have been selected as pulse crops and also

elite varieties and germplasm of the crops were identified

Seeds were collected for first year from SAARC member countries for field

trial in the member states and SAC has given code number of the collected

varieties of the pulses seeds and handed over to the focal points for trial

Adaptive trials have been conducted in the year of 2014 in winter season in

SAARC member countries

For the second year, collecting and disseminating of seeds for adaptive trial in

the winter season in 2015

The member countries contributed a total of 29 varieties/lines of the three pulses

to develop an adaptive trial network. There were 10 mungbean, 11 lentil, 8

blackgram varieties. Accordingly trials has been established in research

institutions of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

Pulse area (hectare) in SAARC countries

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Consultation Meeting/Workshop in SAARC Member

Countries in 2014

Regional Experts Consultation Workshop on Mite Management of Coconut

in SAARC Member Countries

A two days Regional Expert Consultation workshop on Mite Management of

Coconut in SAARC member countries” was held at Bangladesh Agricultural

Research Council (BARC), Dhaka and Bangladesh Agricultural Research

Institute (BARI), Gazipur during 10-11 August 2014 jointly organized by

SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council

(BARC), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) and Krishi

Gobeshona Foundation (KGF) with the goal to identify effective integrated

management package for controlling mite pest of coconut in SAARC Member

Countries

During two days consultation meeting,

ten (10) technical papers and one

synopsis paper were presented. Forty

five resource persons from SAARC

member countries and others

participants of the consultation

discussed in the three groups (research,

extension and policy issues) on the

following issues:

About the incidences by coconut mite in SAARC member countries

Present practices in the South Asian Region to control mite in coconut and

To collect guidance on mite management from the scientists with core

coconut knowledge in South Asia

At the end of the Consultative workshop, recommendations were adopted

considering the above issues and a publication was published in 2014

Recommendations

At the end of the Consultative workshop, following recommendations were

adopted considering the above issues as follows:

Policy issues

Some of our neighbouring countries of this region have made remarkable

progress towards developing and popularizing sustainable management

technologies against not only for coconut mite but also for other pests and

diseases of coconut. So, a coordinated approach of the scientists of this region

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can play a vital role to develop a sustainable and environment friendly means

to manage those pests.

A coordinated project to develop sustainable solution of the pest and disease

problems in coconut including mite can be undertaken under the SAARC

umbrella involving the member countries to boost up the overall productivity

of coconut crop in South Asia. SAC will take initiative for formulating this

project.

• Separate Coconut Development Board or similar organisation may be

established in those countries where coconut production is not up to the mark.

The Board will take the necessary steps for the overall development of

coconut industries.

• Separate Coconut Research Institute /Centre/unit may be established in the

countries where it has not yet done.

• Incentives, viz. bank loan, technical training, and supply of high yielding

propagation materials etc. for the small holder coconut growers and also bank

loan and other related facilities for the SME on coconut products may be

given for sustainable growth of coconut industries.

• Strengthening Research – Academic -Extension – Input supply agencies

linkage nationally and regionally (among the SAARC countries).

• Web-based network on coconut production and protection technologies

developed by the SAARC member countries and among the coconut

researchers, growers may be established.

• Need international exchange of technical expertise through research

networking and program for capacity building of coconut researchers,

extension worker and academicians may be undertaken.

• Private sector may assist in different aspect to develop the commercial venture

of the bio-pesticides or microbial, so that those products can be available at

the farm level.

• Steps may be taken to give legal permission to the authorities and solve

related issues for easy availability of different bio-pesticides and strict quality

control measures should be undertaken for the commercially available bio-

pesticides.

• Motivation work for the use of different product including coconut oil among

the consumers may strengthen

Research Related Issues

• Survey and mapping of extent of damage and population dynamics of coconut

mite along with other devastating pests and diseases may be undertaken.

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• Development of bio-pesticide based technologies for coconut mite along with

other devastating pests and diseases may be undertaken.

• Collection and cataloguing of native natural enemies of mite.

• Identification/development of varieties resistant to coconut mite by utilizing

molecular tools or conventional breeding program and genetic manipulation

for intermediate variety (no long or no dwarf)

• Holistic approach for integrated packages development for all major insect

pests and diseases including coconut mite along with crop management aspect

may be undertaken.

• Study on the bio-ecology, mite-host relationship and transboundary pests and

disease of coconut may be done.

• Introduction/exchange of effective bio-control agents among the member

countries.

• Extensive research work especially in the public sector should be undertaken

for the development of effective and cheap bio-pesticide based IPM

technologies against major insect pests & diseases of coconut.

• Emphasis on biological control, host plant resistance should be given for

sustainable management.

• Research institutes should collaborate with other coconut R&D organization

in other member countries to investigate the epidemiology, etiology and

control measure of coconut mite. Specially improve early detection methods

and search for natural control agents

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Extension issues

• Exchange of effective technology (s) among member countries

• Training for Trainers (TOT)

• Technology transfer through farmers training

• Demonstration

• Farmers Field School

• Motivational /Study tour

• Dissemination of encouraging results through mass media, electronic media,

print media

• Conduct adaptive research

• Seminars and workshop

• Visit members country

• Need area-wide farmer participatory demonstrations.

Regional Orientation Meeting on SAARC Pesticide Information

Network (SPINet)

Regional Orientation Meeting

on SPINet held in Agriculture

Education Unit, University of

Peradeniya, Sri Lanka during

23-27th June 2014. Professor

Buddhi Marambe, Department

of Crop Science, Faculty of

Agriculture, University of

Peradeniya, Sri Lanka as the

local coordinator welcomed all

the delegates from the SAARC

Member States and the guests in the inaugural session. Participants from

Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka attended the

orientation meeting.

Technical sessions were divided into:

• General introduction of the web-based database application: SPINet System

and Structure

• Administering the backend of SPINet

• Administering the frontend of SPINet

• Database management

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A planning session was also organized to draw the course of action to complete

the data input as completing the category of variables, appointing Data Manager,

correction of the Website, completing uploading country data, country Profiles,

link to the National Newsletter on Pesticide/IPM/Plant protection, link to National

“Pesticide Acts and Policies” status and prospects on pesticide residue monitoring

and management in SAARC Region – Consultative program and organize training

on pesticide residue analysis techniques management.

Regional Workshop on Good Agriculture practices of Fruits and

Vegetables in SAARC Member Countries

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Regional Office

for Asia and Pacific organized a three-day regional consultation workshop on

Implementation of Good Agricultural Practices in SAARC Member Countries:

SAARC GAP Scheme held in Dhaka, Bangladesh from 22-24 September 2014.

The workshop jointly organized by FAO and SAC.

Guest and Participants of the GAP workshop

The objectives of the workshop are developing a Regional Scheme on GAP for

SAARC member countries which include the standards as well as certification

criteria and supporting some pilot SAARC countries to implement the scheme and

certification system.

Focal point experts from SAARC Member Countries attended in this consultation

workshop. During the workshop, a good number of suggestions received from

experts that made to improve the scheme on GAP for SAARC Member Countries.

Now the GAP Scheme is implementing among SAARC Member Countries.

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Regional Orientation Meeting and Exposure on “High Yielding

Dairy Buffalo Breed Development in SAARC Countries”

SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) in collaboration with Livestock and Dairy

Development Department (L&DD), Government of the Punjab, Pakistan

organized a three days orientation meeting and exposure on flourishing buffalo

farming in Pakistan by introducing of technological advancement of modern

buffalo farming during 16-18 December 2014. The participants from most of the

SAARC member countries attended this important exposure meeting. It

encompassed series of lectures delivered by the renowned professionals and field

trip to observe the successful buffalo farming at public and private sector

organizations. The orientation meeting and exposure included herd management,

breeding, feeding, reproduction and biotechnological aspects.

050

100150

1.44

105

4.9 33.70.37

Buffalo Population (Million)

0

50

100

Bh

uta

n

Ind

ia

Ne

pal

Pak

ista

n

Sri L

anka

4 1

5373 67

5

Milk Production (%)

Pakistan is one of the important sectors for Livelihood improvement and

employment generation. Nili Ravi is the best in the world due to its higher

productivity. The orientation meeting and exposure blended presentations,

interactive discussion, visit of buffalo research institutes and visit of promising

private buffalo farms. Ten Nili Ravi buffalo dairy farms and research institutes at

different areas of the Punjab were visited and discussions were also made with the

faculty members of the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS),

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Lahore and University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. It was a great

opportunity for the experts/ resource persons to refresh their knowledge with

newer concepts and innovations in recent techniques and technologies of Nili

Ravi buffalo farming. The exposure meeting facilitated sharing of Nili Ravi

progeny tested frozen semen with other SAARC countries. The visit would

explore new avenues for cooperation with the livestock department of Punjab,

Pakistan and SAARC member countries to work together in future.

Regional Consultation Meeting on Geo-spatial technology to

assess and monitor land degradation in SAARC Countries

SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) in collaboration with SAARC Forestry Centre

(SFC) and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

initiated a regional program on "application of geo-spatial technology to assess

and monitor land degradation in SAARC Countries" it was during 23-25

December, 2014 in Thiumphu, Bhutan.

The objectives of the initiative were:

Development of a methodology for land degradation assessment at local and

national scales, which can be scaled up (across the basin covering multiple

countries) and replicated by the national institutions/programs

Provide harmonized norms for land degradation mapping

It is planned to implement the program in three phases/stages

i. Stakeholder meeting (inception) on the proposal, pilot site selection and the

field data collection

ii. Field research and data collection – to be done in all participating countries,

and

iii. Compilation of data and generation of maps, and integration – regional

consultation meeting (final meeting), printing of reports and manual.

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The degradation of forest in SAARC Region is associated to following drivers:

Agriculture expansion

Unsustainable Forest Produce Harvesting

Encroachment

Illegal Felling

Shifting Cultivation

Overgrazing

Forest Fire

Infrastructure Development

Natural Disaster

Some of the pertinent issues were raised at the technical session:

Strengthening coordination among institutions

Need for an affordable methodology for land degradation assessment &

development of national to local scale databases

Land degradation process related knowledge and expert knowhow is

available, but it has not gone adequately to the grass root level. Therefore,

countrywide awareness creation is vital

Lack of proper land use policies

Reduce pressure on lands through alternative income generation

In the Plenary Session, the meeting agreed to conduct action research in selected

pilot sites during the first semester of 2015 and assimilate the findings to generate

a common methodology for assessment and monitoring of land degradation in the

region.

Pilot site for mapping exercise

a. Bangladesh : Chittagong Hill Tracts, Sanju River Basin

b. Bhutan : Wangchu Basin/Amachu Basin

c. India : Purna valley, Maharashtra

d. Maldives : Gan Island

e. Nepal : Kamala River Basin

f. Pakistan : Chitral Valley, KPK

g. Sri Lanka : Uma-Oye Valley (a part of Maha valley)

Participants with Hon‟ble Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Bhutan

and Senior Agriculture Officers, and resource persons.

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Others

Foodgrain scenario of SAARC countries

The South Asian region accounts for 29 per cent of the world‟s population, of

which 35% are trapped in poverty with low per capita income. Further an average

of 23% has poor access to food and nutrition (SAARC Agriculture Vision 2020).

The region has the highest concentration of poverty and hungry in the world. All

the SAARC governments are aggressively promoting agriculture to be able to

feed the population.

Food production data are important for planning, SAC collates relevant data on

production, anticipated demand, likely shortfalls, surplus, minimum support price,

procurement levels of major crops and annually publishes “Food grain situation in

SAARC Countries”.

-200%

-150%

-100%

-50%

0%

50%

100%

150%

Afg

ha

nis

tan

Ba

ng

lad

esh

Bh

uta

n

Ind

ia

Ma

ldiv

es

Ne

pa

l

Pa

kist

an

Sri

La

nka

Ch

an

ge

in p

rod

uc

tio

n v

olu

me

(%)

Rice Wheat Coarse Grain Pulses Oilseed

Change in production volume of major crops in last seven years (2007 to 2014)

The change in production of major crops in the region (Figure 5) provides a

glimpse of how production is changing the region. For instance a significant

increase in wheat production across the region can be seen, probably due to the

development of high yielding temperature tolerant varieties. Similarly, increase in

rice and pulse production can be observed in some countries. An alarming

decrease in production of pulses and oilseed is observed.

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Information Management and Networking

Under the aegis of Knowledge Management and Networking, SAARC

Agriculture Centre regularly published SAARC AgriNews (Quarterly); SAARC

Journal of Agriculture (Half yearly); Food Grain situation in SAARC countries

(Annually); SAARC Agriculture Outlook (Annually); SAC Annual Report

(Annually) and Statistical Data Book for Agricultural Research & Development in

SAARC countries (Biennially) etc.

New arrivals of 2014

The Centre is publishing Annual Report every year. The report

represents information about SAARC Agriculture Centre‟s

objectives, major functions and completed activities and

programmes. The Annual Report is published in July 2014

This book is providing useful and valuable direction for making

proper policies, programs, strategy on animal genetic resources

separately from all the member countries

This publication containing a set of recommendations, synthesis

reports and country papers to identify impact of climatic

parameters on crop production and recommend adaptation

measures in the region. The publication helps in adaptation

strategies at different scales in agriculture for assess the impact

of climate change on production of selected crops, study the

relationship between climatic parameters and crop production,

strategies applied for the mitigating climate change effect,

assess current knowledge including indigenous knowledge

available with the professionals and farming community on

crop management with the climatic variability; recommend

appropriate measure (s) on „what to do’ to protect crops from

possible damage due to the climatic parameters

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This publication containing recommendation, synthesis reports

and country papers expected to promote intensive and

appropriate agricultural research for development on post

harvest and value addition of horticultural produce also linking

farmers to markets so as to reduce losses, diversity product

utilization, enhance income and employment generation of the

people in south Asia

This book is the study of the existing systems of agricultural

extension management system and subsequently organized a

regional consultative workshop as well a publication containing

a set of recommendations, synthesis reports and country papers

aiming at developing and revitalizing national agricultural

extension systems in the region. The publication helps in

developing strategies for efficient and well-organized

supervision system for a country should build on the societal

needs and socio-economic conditions of the people in South

Asia. The beneficiaries will be policy makers in the

Governments of SAARC countries, agriculture and social

scientists, extension service providers, NGO, donor agencies

and ultimately the farmers.

This book is based on the country status reports presented by

professionals from six member countries in a consultation

meeting organized by SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) in

collaboration with Bangladesh Agricultural research Institute

(BARI). The regional initiative also generated a variety of

recommendations, which can be implemented by member

countries. Summary and synthesis are also incorporated to

provide a comprehensive picture R&D progress and prospects

in the field of biotechnology in SAARC region to the readers.

This book is containing a set of recommendations, keynote

paper and country status reports to identify effective package of

management practices for controlling mite on coconut

developed, validated and adapted by the SAARC communities.

The publication helps to inquire about the incidence of coconut

mite in member countries of SAARC; to understand the

practices followed in the member countries to control mite in

coconut and to collect counsel on mite management from the

scientists with soul coconut knowledge

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The compilation would be useful to policy makers, researchers,

extension service providers, input supply agencies and various

stakeholder of private and public sector involved in agriculture

and related fields for the greater benefit of small-scale farmers

to attain food security in the region. It is easy to understand the

important recommendations as follow up priority activities by

member states as well as SAC future initiatives through these

recommendations.

The compilation comprises of papers prepared by experts of

five SAARC countries with regard to coastal and marine

fisheries management in the coastline of Bay of Bengal,

Arabian Sea and part of Indian Ocean. The countries included

in the technical synthesis are Bangladesh India, Maldives,

Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Relevant literature was reviewed with

the help of officials/experts in the region. Each individual

coastal SAARC country's information was analyzed to generate

a regional synthesis.

The primary objective of this impact report is to study the

relevance of SAC products and services for users in the

SAARC member countries and undertake self assessment and

improve the design and delivery system of the future product

and services.

SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) has been publishing half

yearly peer reviewed journal “SAARC Journal of Agriculture”

since 2003. It is a half yearly publication from the centre and

serves as a platform for exchange of latest knowledge on

breakthrough topics that are of current concern. It publishes

original research articles as well as review articles in all areas

of agriculture, animal science and fisheries from SAARC

member countries. It is regular publication of SAC contains

scientific papers of original research and review articles in the

field of agriculture. In 2014, two issues have been published

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This is a quarterly publication contains information on

successful technologies/success stories generated in the fields

of crops, fisheries, forestry, livestock, etc. in different SAARC

member countries. Its volume 7, issue 4 and volume 8, issue 1,

2 and 3 were published in 2014. SAARC AgriNews is a regular

publication of the Centre. It is a widely circulated quarterly

Newsletter, devoted for disseminating agricultural research and

development finding as well as information on applied

technology for scientists, technologists, extension service

providers, policy makers, students and farmers in South Asia.

The bulletin “Foodgrain situation in SAARC countries”

provides information on major food grains in the SAARC

member countries, including production, anticipated demand,

likely shortfalls, surplus etc. The information will be useful for

planning strategies for achieving food security nationally and

regionally. Bulletin number 17, Crop year 2012-13 was

published in December, 2014

Seminar/Guest Lecture

Ensuring Livestock Productivity by Self-Sustainable Primary Animal Health

Care and Disease Reporting Systems in Bangladesh

In terms of earth warming conditions, an outbreak of different animal diseases

transmissible to human has become threaten for our environment in South Asian

region. Globalization, land encroachment and climate change contribute high-

impact animal diseases, decrease the milk production are affecting food and

nutrition security and livestock production as well as trade. Considering this

important issue and making awareness among SAARC Countries, SAARC

Agriculture Centre (SAC) organized a seminar on “Ensuring livestock

productivity by self-sustainable primary animal health care and disease

reporting systems in Bangladesh” on 4 September 2014 at BARC, Dhaka. Dr.

Mat Yamage, Senior Technical Coordinator, ECTAD-FAO presented a paper on

this topic. Mr. Muhammed Sayedul Hoque, Honorable Minister, Ministry of

Fisheries and Livestock, Government of Bangladesh graced the occasion as Chief

Guest; Dr. Mike Robson, FAO Representative in Bangladesh as Special Guest in

the Seminar. Dr. Md. Kamal Uddin, Executive Chairman, BARC presided over

the seminar. Director General, Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI),

Scientists and Professionals from Department of Livestock Services (DLS) &

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BLRI, Professionals from Livestock and Veterinary Department of Agricultural

Universities, Sher-E-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Bangladesh

Agricultural University (BAU) and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

Agricultural University (BSMRAU) and non-government organizations

participated in the seminar.

Dr. Mat presented in his paper on statistical data, information and ideas about

sustainable management of livestock in SAARC countries in this seminar.

Discussion was also made about the varying production rates of milk and meat.

Some important diseases of livestock like Foot and Mouth Disease, Rinderpest,

Classical swine fever etc were also discussed by the participants. Honorable

Minister, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock emphasized on increasing the

production rate of milk and meat to fulfil the demand of their requirement in

Bangladesh.

Agricultural Extension in South Asia (AESA)

Strengthening Extension & Advisory Services in South Asia

The Centre for Research on Science Policy (CRISP), India and the South Asia

Institute for Advanced Studies (SIAS), Nepal organized a two-day meeting on

"Strengthening Extension and Advisory Services in South Asia" at Kathmandu,

Nepal. This was held on 14-15

January, 2014. Dr. Rasheed Sulaiman

V, Director CRISP and Kamal

Devkota, Research Fellow, SIAS

welcomed the participants to this

meeting. A total of 28 participants

from seven South Asian countries

(India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives,

Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) and

Dr. Muhammad Musa, Senior

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Program Specialist (Crops), SAARC Agriculture Centre, Dhaka attended the

meeting. The meeting was organized under different sessions as introduction,

vision, mission, governance, functions and resource generation, issues and

challenges in extension and advisory provision, priorities and ways forward.

Greater coordination among SAARC member countries

A two-day South Asian Regional Policy Workshop on “Disasters, Climate

Change and Agriculture, Land & Food Security‟ was held in the sideline of 18th

SAARC Summit during 10-11, November 2014. The workshop was jointly

organized by Oxfam and its partners in Katmandu, Nepal. Parliamentarians, civil

society leaders, academia and government officials from four South Asian

countries-Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka-attended the

workshop. Dr. Md. Niazuddin Pasha, Senior Technical Officer represented the

SAC.

Speakers at the workshop urged

leaders of the South Asian

countries to reaffirm their

commitments and pledges at the

SAARC summit, for a

coordinated regional response to

meet the interdependent

challenges of climate change,

disasters and food insecurity.

They said a coordinated regional response is a must to meet the challenges of

climate change, disasters and food insecurity. Any delay in implementing the

SAARC agreements would fail millions of South Asian to survive through

hazardous impacts of climate change.

Oxfam Deputy Regional Director Lillian Mercado said there are enough treaties and agreements in place - it is now time to implement them. Executive Director of Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies (BCAS) Dr Atiq Rahman referred to climate change as one of the greatest threats to human rights and termed it an issue of "climate justice". In the face of growing climate and disaster risk, political buy-in and appropriate budget allocations are essential for effective implementation of policies and legislation, change our behaviors. Let's not get to the point of no return". Deputy Speaker of the Bangladesh Parliament Advocate Fazle Rabbi Mia also made a commitment to raise awareness amongst fellow parliamentarians and other government officials to priorities regional cooperation on these issues.

The speakers recommended prioritizing information sharing on expected rains

and water flows ahead of floods and develop gender sensitive Greater

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coordination From Page-16 Col. 4 disaster risk reduction plans at community

level and strengthening the SAARC Secretariat and Disaster Management Center

to improve collaboration with policy research institutions. The government should

form a special parliamentary committee on disaster management and climate

change adaptation responsible for oversight of disaster management authorities.

The parliamentary committees of all SAARC member states should establish

regular coordination mechanisms. The SAARC countries must integrate DRR-

CCA through sector development plans at national, district and local levels- such

as Agriculture and Food Security, Education, Health, Urban Planning and

Environment, Water and Sanitation, the speakers observed. The conference

suggested reinvigorating the Inter-Governmental Expert Group on Climate

Change established under the Thimphu Statement to develop clear policy

direction and prioritizing the development of hydropower potential and reducing

carbon-fuel dependency for energy generation.

It says the SAARC should jointly push rich countries for increasing their

contribution to the Green Climate Fund so that South Asia can benefit to adapt to and

mitigate the impacts of climate change. The discussants said making the SAARC Food

and Seed Banks operational should be made a priority by simplifying triggers and

procedures for access and removing barriers to their use. The capacity of the SAARC

Agriculture Centre must be enhanced to support regional agricultural collaboration and

research and development. Mechanisms and research and development. Mechanisms

should be institutionalized to include the concerns of small-holder farmers, particularly

women farmers, in the operations of the SAARC Seed and Food Banks, they said.

Archive for SAARC Agriculture Centre

SAARC Agriculture Centre and WIN Incorporate (Service Provider) jointly developed

system study and information collection from the existing system and requirement of the

new database, interface and the CMS.04, designing and finalize the format of the archive

and new web portal. The system needs to be robust enough to address multiple queries

simultaneously by multiple users. In case of system crash there should be a rollback

option with log and content.

The web address of the SAC is www.saarcagri.org

SAC publications have been uploaded in SAC website to facilitate easy access of

the users. The pdf files are downloadable from the archive

http://www.saarcagri.org/index.php?option=com_abook&view=category&id=1&I

temid=246

Mite management of coconut in SAARC member countries

Adaptation to Climate Change Impact on Crop Production in SAARC Member Countries

Prospects, Needs Benefits and Risk Assessment of Agriculture Related Genetically

Modified Products in SAARC Countries

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Farm Animal Genetic Resources in SAARC Countries Diversity, Conservation and

Management

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.12 Issue 1

Value Chain Analysis and Market Studies on Fruits and Vegetable in SAARC Member

Countries

National Agricultural Extension Systems in SAARC Countries An Analysis of the System

Diversity

SAC Monograph, The SAARC Australia Project Developing Capacity in Cropping

Systems Modelling for South Asia

Coastal and Marine Fisheries Management in SAARC Countries

Popularizing Multiple Cropping Innovation As a means to Raise Crop Productivity and

Farm Income

Directory of Successful Farm Machinery in SAARC Countries

SAARC Seed Outlook

Current Status and Future Prospect of Pulse Production in SAARC Countries

Impact of Climatic Parameters on Agricultural Production and Crop Productivity Losses

through Weather Forecast and Advisory Service in SAARC Countries

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 10 No. 2

Statistical Data Book for Agricultural Research and Development in SAARC Countries

2012

Strategies for Arresting Land Degradation in South Asian Countries

Veterinary Public Health and Zoonotic Disease Control in SAARC Countries

Dairy Production, Quality Control and Marketing System in SAARC Counties

NARS – National Agricultural Research System in SAARC Countries – An Analysis of

System Diversity

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 10 No. 1

Quality Seed in SAARC Countries: Production, Processing Legal and Quality Control and

Marketing System

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 9 No. 1

Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of SAARC Countries

Annual Report 2012

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 11, Issue 1

Pesticide Information of SAARC Countries

Public Sector Support System and its collaboration with Private Sector for Livestock

Development in SAARC Countries

Proceeding of Regional Workshop on Hill Agriculture in SAARC Countries: Constraints &

Opportunities

Fodder Germphasm in SAARC Countries

Status of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in SAARC Countries

Regional Workshop on Farm Mechanization for Small holders Agriculture in SAARC

Countries

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 9, No. 2

SAARC AgriNews, Vol. 6 No. 4, Vol. 7 No. 1,2,3

Foodgrain Situation in SAARC countries - Bulletin 16 and 17

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www.saarcagri.org ----SAC website

The Centre's saarcagri.org website is the key interface for establishing the

regional agricultural information networking among SAARC member country. It

would provide scope for direct interactions with clients through options on

information sharing of institutions, discussion forum and updating information on

technological advances and issues on key agenda in the field of agriculture,

livestock, natural resources, research, development, etc. The website is an

interactive website with dynamic features and programmes to provide the latest

content and information. Most of the dynamic information services are based on

the databases. Appropriate search forms and input forms are created to retrieve

and update the databases.

Impact Study of the SAC products and services

Structured questionnaires were developed by SAC and sent by post (650) and e-

mail (1000) to individuals and institutions of the SAARC member countries

whom accessing products and services from SAC. The Centre received 100 filled

up questionnaire from different SAARC countries and Report on Impact Study

has been prepared on the basis of questionnaire and uploaded in the website as

On-line publication.

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SAARC Outlook on Food Waste and Food Losses in SAARC

member countries

The Seventh Governing Board Meeting 2013 of SAC has suggested preparing SAARC Outlook based on emerging themes of high relevance in agriculture to the region and also recommended that SAC should select the themes and communicate to the honourable GB members for their approval. As per GB decision, SAC selected three themes as follows

i) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in SAARC member countries

ii) Farm Mechanization for small holder agriculture in South Asia

iii) Food Waste and Food Losses in SAARC member countries

Governing Board Members of SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) have approved a topic on Food Waste and Food Losses in SAARC member countries among three themes as SAARC Outlook. The Centre has prepared a draft on that topic and planning to upload in the website as On-line publication. It is mentioned that there was no financial involvement

Successful Agricultural Technology Dissemination in

SAARC Member Countries

Audio-visual on agro-technology

The centre produces audio-visual

materials and also collects AV materials

on agro-technologies from member

countries and other sources for wider

distribution. The Centre has established a

depository Video Lab of Video films on

agriculture technologies developed and

disseminated by the Pioneer Agricultural

Institutions/Organizations and

Universities of SAARC member

countries.

The centre has a collection of 370 video films, on agricultural technologies out of

which 314 were collected from SAARC member countries, 48 were produced and

dubbed respectively at the Centre. In the year 2014, Centre has a collection of 75

video films on agriculture technology

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28

2 2 2

8

1

18

3

6

India Pakistan Nepal Sri Lanka

Agriculture Livestock Fisheries Food processing Resource Management

Number of Agro-technology videos collected in 2014

Distribution of AV materials

In 2014 the centre distributed 960 copies of Agro-

technology video to farmers, researchers, entrepreneur, and

policy makers (Annexure 7). Roughly 40% is distributed

during the book fair organized in Bangladesh where SAC

also has the exhibition stall. 35% of the distribution was

done during agriculture fair and 25% of the videos were

distributed during the conferences/workshop/meeting and to

visitors of SAC. The videos related to horticulture were the

most widely distributed followed by crops and livestock

Agro-technology video distributed in 2014

The materials were received from 6 member countries, of

which highest distribution were of video materials received

from Nepal, Sri Lanka and India. The material content related to crops,

horticulture, plantation, livestock, fisheries, and mechanization were widely

distributed

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Videos on Agro-technology collected during 2012-2014

India

Little Fishes and Tiny Nets

The Greedy Fish Farmer

Greening the Sea: The Story of Green Mussel Cultivation in India

Yellow fin Tuna Fishing: Some Glimpses

Monsoon Season Post Harvest Losses Traditional Fish Processing in India

New Horizons in Mariculture: Culture of Seabase in open Sea Cage

CMFRI: The Saga Continues

Farming Jewels from the Sea

Marikkunna Kadalamma

CIFT-The Wave Riders

HACCP in food processing plants

The pre-requisite programmes-GMP & SSOP

Wealth from waste-livestock feed from cephalopod processing waste

Convenience food from fish

Fabrication and maintenance of fishing nets

Magur farming

Freshwater prawn hatchery for boosting prawn production

Ornamental fish breeding and culture

CIFA: gateway of aquaculture

Poultry Passion in India

CPRI in Tune with the Time

Potato Seed Production in India

ICRISAT helping and poverty through Inclusive Market Oriented Development

ICRISAT pigeon pea genome sequence

ICRISAT – NASFAM partnership

More Crops and income per drop of water

Preparation of Vermi Compost

Integrated water management- A successful story, Kothapally

Watershed Project Kothapally- Success story

Sweet Sorghum- A smart bio fuel Crop

National Research Centre for Agro forestry in service of nation

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Documentary on National Resource Conservation through Watershed Development

DWR profile

RCT for increased wheat production in India

Warning Signals from the Apple Valleys

Area Specific Mineral Mixture of improving productivity in animals

Improving quality and utilization of poor quality roughages

Azolla cultivation for livestock feeding

Complete feed block

NIANP-Looks Ahead

Exploring Mithun: Journey Ahead

Importance of Weed Management

Parthenium Management

Threat of Invasive Weeds in India

Institute Profile

Enlivening the Thar Desert

Jute Reinvented

The Jute Nonwoven in agriculture

CPCRI: For Farmers Prosperity (English, Hindi, Tamil)

Mud crab farming and fattening by women

Fish Food products development and marketing by women self help groups

Aqua feed development by women self help groups

Diversification of livelihoods among the coastal women self help group

Cultivation of Rabi Medicinal Plants

Herbal wealth of India

Good Agricultural and Collection practices of Medicinal Plants

Shrimp culture”

Nepal

Polythene Film Technology Part-A, Part - B

In the grip of drought

Living with floods

Promoting Herbal Gardens in Schools

Natural Resources Management: Approaches and technologies in Nepal

ICIMOD Demonstration and Training Centre

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Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, Director,

SAC is talking on BTV

Climate change in the Hindu Kush Himalayan region

Biodiversity conservation and management in the HKH region

Pakistan

Honey Bee

Sloping Agricultural Land Technology

Too much water too little water

Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Spices for Better Quality

Pepper Industry in Sri Lanka

Videos distributed by country by component SAC in News Media

Ever since SAC started maintaining news

clips related to SAC activities from 2011, the

centre has been well covered by different

news media ensuring that our reach to the

population is ensured. As we initiate activities

related to emerging issues we are constantly

contacted by news media. In two years SAC

have been reported in 33 instances by

different papers. This coverage has helped

image building of the centre and also

informing the population the existence of a

regional body which address the regional

issues and bridge the technological barriers

among the SAARC nations.

The importance of information sharing in agriculture is also highlighted by news

media. SAC is actively involved in promoting ICT in agriculture.

In addition to the print media, SAC also at regular interval come on air via the

state owned television “Bangladesh Television”. As the BTV has coverage of

97% population of Bangladesh, it is very appropriate media to inform and update

the people on activities of the centre

To disseminate successful technologies from the region, SAC also initiated to

telecast videos in different channels of Bangladesh. Some of them are listed

below:

Hygienic Milk Production, Processing and Packaging Technology in India

Cultivation of Rabi Medicinal Plants in India

Hybrid Rice Seed production Technology in India

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Biological Control of Cotton and Chickpea

Ornamental Fish Breeding and Culture in India

Milk Production Cooperative System in Nepal

Post Harvest Technology of Major Fruit Crops in Sri Lanka

Kithul Tree in Sri Lanka

Community based Mushroom Management in Bhutan

Vegetable Seed Production in Nepal

Livestock Development in Bhutan

Higher Income from Cultivation of Off Season vegetable in hills

Quality Protein Maize for improved Nutrition

Success story of I M P in Rainfed Cotton

Potato Seed Production in India

SAC Provides ABIS through e-mail

SAARC Agriculture Centre has been providing Agricultural Bibliographic Information

Service (ABIS) on different CD-ROM database. The following CD-ROM databases are

available with SAC: CROP CD (2007/07), HORT CD (2008/06), VET CD (2003/11),

PLANT GENE CD (2008/08), SOIL CD (2007/04), PARASITE CD (2005/07), FSTA

(2007/10), CAB ABSTRACT (2005/11), TREE CD (2004/10), FOREST SCIENCE CD

(2008/07), ANIMAL PROD. CD (2008/11), VETEARINARY CD (2008/8),

AGRICOLA CD ( 2007/6) is also subscribed for renewal. If you wish to avail ABIS,

please send your request to [email protected] addressing the Director, SAC. Please

mention the keywords, title of CD-ROM database and the range of years for which you

need the references.

SAC corners in Agricultural libraries in Bangladesh

SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) has opened its corners at various libraries of

Agricultural Institutions such as Bangladesh Jute Research Institute (BJRI),

Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Bangladesh Rice Research

Institute (BRRI), Sher- E- Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Bangobandhu

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Bangladesh

Agricultural University (BAU) and finally at Bangladesh Krishibid Institution

(BKI) for sharing information with all students, scientists, stakeholders. Users

can find out easily his/her desired SAC publications, reports, journals,

newsletters, bulletin, data books, seminar/workshop proceedings and CDs on the

success stories on agriculture and allied fields of SAARC Member countries.

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New Arrival of Books in 2014 at SAC Library

Title Publication of the Institute Year

Rough - Sogue - Khuda - Muktitai Bangla

r Udvit (Bangla) by Green Mizanur

Rahman

Savar, Facebangla Limited,

Jahangirnagar University

2014

Public Procurement Law 2006 & Public

Procurement Bidhimala 2008

Dhaka, Government Printing Press,

Tejgaon

2013

General Financial Rules 2012, 5th ed. Dhaka, Roddur Prokasoni, Nilkhet 2012

Chakurer Bidhi-bidhan, Augst 2014 Dhaka, Liton publications 2014

Statistical Yearbook of Bangladesh 2012 Dhaka, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics 2013

Bangladesh Economic Review 2014 Dhaka, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics 2014

Statistical Pocket book Bangladesh 2013 Dhaka, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics 2014

Peoples Plan of Action for Management

of rivers in Southwest Coastal Region of

Bangladesh

Dhaka, Uttaran, Dhanmondi 2013 2013

Medium Term Macroeconomic Policy

Statement 2014-15 to 2016-17

Dhaka, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of the

peoples, Republic of Bangladesh

2009

Bangladesh Economy in FY 2013-14 Dhaka, Centre for Policy Dialogue 2014

State of the Bangladesh Economy in FY

2012-13 and Outlook for FY 2013-14

Dhaka, Centre for Policy Dialogue 2014

Towards Resilient Development Dhaka, General Economics Division 2014

Parliamentarians can make the difference

Neglected Haor Livelihoods

Dhaka, All Party Parliamentary Group 2013

Revealing Changes; an impact assessment

of Training on poverty Environment-

Climate -Disaster Nexus

Dhaka, General Economic Division,

2014

2014

United Nations Development Assistance

Framework for Bangladesh 2012-16

Dhaka, United Nations Resident

Coordinator

2014

Women, Gender and Development:

Contemporary issues by Nazmunnessa

Mahtab

Dhaka, A H Development Publishing

House

2012

Contemporary Gender Issues by Rashida

A Khanum

Dhaka, A H Development Publishing

House

2012

Rural Economy and Livelihoods by

Mahbub Hossain & Abdul Bayes

Dhaka, A H Development Publishing

House

2010

Role and Relevance of Co-operatives in

Rural Enterprise Development in the

Bangladesh Rural Advance Committee by

Anjuman Ara Begum

Dhaka, A H Development Publishing

House

2013

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Sustainable Development in Bangladesh

by Naznin Islam

Dhaka, A H Development Publishing

House

2012

Exploitation of Renewable Energy in

Bangladesh by M Humayun Kabir &

Wilfried Endlicher

Dhaka, A H Development Publishing

House

2012

Industrial Waste Management and

Process

Gazipur, Department of Civil 2012

New document received by SAC in 2014

In 2014, Library subscribed and received gift items totally 450 publications from

SAARC member countries and other international organizations. Among the

publications, there were 216 books, 59 journals, 28 Annual Reports, 54

Newsletters and 67 magazines as shown in the table below.

Country Books Journals Annual

Reports

Newsletters Newspaper/

Magazines

Total

Bangladesh 120 14 15 10 16 175

Bhutan - 2 - - 5 07

India 50 5 8 5 6 74

Maldives - - - - 2 02

Nepal 4 5 2 3 4 18

Pakistan 1 1 1 - 3 06

Sri Lanka 1 1 1 4 2 09

Others 61 5 4 5 12 87

Total 237 33 31 27 50 378

CD-RoM search

In 2014, a total of 202 requests were received from users in Bangladesh, India and

Pakistan in response, the centre has sent 118970.00 abstracts and 60 TEEAL

Search through e-mail as follows:

Sl No Country No. of Abstracts

01 Bangladesh 117934

02 India 281

03 Pakistan 755

Total - 118970.00

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From where can you get the SAC publications and videos?

A archive of all the published materials is maintained in SAC Website

(www.saacragri.org)

Anyone interested to access technical materials

(Agro-technology videos, reports, and scientific information)

may contact the following address:

Videos: http://saarcagri.org/index.php?option=com_webplayer&view=category

Publications (Soft copies): http://www.saarcagri.org/index.php?option=com_abook&view=category&id=1&Item

id=246

Hard copy of the publications and Video CDs: Director, SAARC Agriculture Centre

BARC Complex, Farmgate, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh

Tel: + 880-2-8113378; Fax: + 880-2-91245996

Web: www.saarcagri.org Please Note: While the materials are distributed free to farmers and students, they are

nominally priced

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Capacity Development

Regional Training on “Fish Processing, Quality Control and HACCP”

SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) in collaboration with Central Institute of

Fisheries Technology (CIFT), India organized a seven days regional training on

Fish Processing, Quality Control, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point at

CIFT, Kochi, Kerala, India during 18-24 October 2014. The thirteen participants

from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka attended this

hands-on training. The training materials encompass by theory as well as lab

based hands- on exposure on diversification of fish processing and quality

assurance. CIFT was selected as a premier research institute of south Asia to

conduct this training program. A formal inauguration was made with the

participation of dignitaries, guests, trainees and faculty members of CIFT. The

inaugural function was graced by Ms. Leena Nair, IAS, Chairperson, MPEDA,

Ministry of Commerce, Government of India (GOI) as Chief Guestand Dr. Md.

Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer, SAC, Dhaka, as Guest of Honour.

The inauguration was chaired by Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, Director, Central

Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin, Kerala, India. The Head of

Departments (HOD) of CIFT were also present. Central Institute of Fisheries

Technology (CIFT) is one of the premier research institutes which have

tremendous success/ innovations about the technologies on fish processing and

quality control.

A great opportunity was provided to the trainees to refresh their knowledge with

newer concepts, innovations, techniques and technologies on fish processing,

quality control and HACCP. The hands on practical knowledge provided

excellent opportunities to the participants to gain working knowledge on various

techniques that would broaden research aptitude in the area of fish processing,

quality control and HACCP. The training covered following topics:

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Advances in post harvest technology and

value addition of fish and shellfish

Emerging technologies in fish processing

Thermal processing of fishery products

Development of high value products from

fish and shellfish processing waste

Fish quality assurance

Post mortem changes in fish muscle

Chemical and physical hazards with special

reference to fish and fish products

Biological hazards in seafood

Sanitation standard operating procedures

HACCP- A preventive strategy

As the technological innovations happen rapidly, agriculture extensions remain

unaware of the innovations which can help them improve agricultural production.

The lack of technical capacity is often seen as limiting factor for development.

SAC as a regional centre based on the emerging issues and technological

innovation and the national needs, organizes training for researchers, extension

and private individuals.

Regional Training on Advances in Poultry Nutrition and Feed

Technology

Poultry production in SAARC member countries has emerged as one of the fast growing sectors among various livestock based vocations as evident from its transformation from traditional backyard rearing to organize commercial farming over the last few decades. This sector comprises of low, medium and high input/output systems of rearing and is providing employment to millions of people, apart from household income and nutritional security to numerous small poultry keepers in rural and tribal areas of the country. Technological support is, therefore, crucial for the sustained growth of the poultry sector. The existence of this industry is now facing challenges due to rapid increases of feed price and scarcity of feed raw materials.

Feed is the fundamental requirement for commercial poultry farming. Domestic production of raw materials for commercial feed preparation is not enough to meet the demand of feed industry. It is demand of time to produce cost effective commercial feed. To ensure balanced and quality feed production is another challenge for poultry rearers and traders. There is a numerous commercial feed industry among the SAARC region. We are not aware about the quality of the feed due to lack of knowledge and expertise.

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Considering the issues, SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) in collaboration with

Central Avian Research Institute (CARI), India organized a ten (10) days regional

training on “Advances in Poultry Nutrition and Feed Technology” at CARI,

Izatnagar (U.P), India during 6-15 April 2014. Total fifteen (15) participants

attended from SAARC member countries namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,

Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The inaugural function was graced by

chairperson Dr. J. M. Kataria, Director, CARI, U.P. India while Dr. Md. Nure

Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock) was present as guest of

honour. The valedictory session was graced by chief guest Dr. Abul Kalam Azad,

Director, SAC while Dr. A. B. Mandal, Principal Scientist, CARI was presided

over the session. The training was initiated keeping in consideration to provide

hands on knowledge and skill development of the professionals for the production

of cost effective quality poultry feed formulation through the adoption of modern

demand driven technologies.

The training was a great opportunity for the trainees to refresh and access

themselves in newer concepts and innovations in recent techniques and

technologies of poultry nutrition and feed. The hands on practical knowledge

provided excellent knowledge to the participants to gain first- hand working

experiences on various techniques that will broaden research aptitude in the area

of poultry nutrition and feed technology. The training included the following

aspects

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• Determination of proximate principles in feedstuffs

• Fibre and protein assay through fibretech and kjeltech systems

• Measurement of energy value in feedstuffs

• NIR spectroscopy for feedstuff evaluation

• Using computer software for feed compounding

• Atomic absorption spectrometry for mineral analysis.

• Visit to feed plant

Professional Development

In view of difference in agro-technological innovations and developments in

different countries, exposure visits and participating in the agriculture related

programs by professionals across the region have become a very effective means

to demonstrate the success stories and also to develop direct link among various

institutions. The centre facilitated exposure visits of national professional and

policy makers during the year.

Visit to International Sericulture Commission, Bangalore, India

On the invitation of Her Excellency, Secretary General, International Sericulture

Commission (ISC), Bangalore and on authorization His Excellency, Secretary

General, SAARC Secretariat, Kathmandu , Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, Director, SAC

and Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung, Senior Program Specialist (NRM) visited ISC,

Bangalore, India during 9th to 12th April 2014 to study the activities of ISC and

discuss on potential collaborations.

Background of ISC

The International Sericulture Commission which started in 1948 as the Permanent

Commission of International Sericulture Congresses, is an inter-governmental

organization registered with United Nations to engage in the development of

sericulture and silk industry in the world. When ISC was institutionalized France,

India, Romania and Yugoslavia were the founding members of the commission.

The aims of the ISC are to encourage and promote the development and

improvement from the technical, scientific and economic points of view, of all the

activities dealing with sericulture in general (including moriculture, egg

production, sericulture and raw silk reeling).

Currently there are 13 member countries (Brazil, Egypt, France, Greece, India,

Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Romania, Madagascar, Syria, Thailand, and Tunisia).

There are 20 associate members of the commission.

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Core activities of the commission are as follows:

• Research and development

• Training

• Scholarship

• Volunteer Expert Program

• Sharing of genetic resources

• Global partnership program

• Consultancy

• Global meeting

• Awards

• Publications

Nasrin Akter, Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture) attended CCAFS

program

The CGIAR Research Programme on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food

Security (CCAFS) is a major global research partnership between the CGIAR

research Centres; national agricultural research system (NARS), smallholder

farmers and their representative organizations were organizing the workshop on

Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security: Opportunities for Regional

Collaboration in Vietnam. Nasrin Akter, Senior Program Specialist

(Horticulture), SAARC Agriculture Centre participated in this workshop to bring

in new insights and opportunities for regional collaboration and learning on

“Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security: Opportunities for Regional

Collaboration held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam during 19-21 November 2014.

She presented keynote paper on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food

Security: Opportunities for Regional Collaboration and also performing as

panelist in the concluding session and presented the following Recommendations

on Immediate needs for Regional Collaboration: Where to find win-win

opportunities

Need to establish effective Networking among SAARC member countries to

form climate change alliance in the region

To encourage South-South Cooperation in finding solutions for climate

change impacts on agriculture

Need strong representation in international climate change negotiations like

Conference of Parties (CoP) Meeting

Need to establish a Central Climate Change Secretariat at the focal point

Ministry of the United Nations Frame for Climate Change (UNFCC) in each

member country and linking it with Climate Change Cells to be established at

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each ministry of concern in respective member countries to coordinate climate

change related activities of agriculture such as formulation of a national

climate change program or plan of action outlining the most important

adaptation measures in agriculture

Creating a Regional Seed Bank and Exchange of Seeds during disaster and

ensure quality seed to resist change of climate and prototype exchange for

farm machine among the SAARC countries and adaptive trials in the SAARC

countries

Climate smart technology/adaptation technology like stress tolerant, short

duration varieties may be exchanged within South Asia under material transfer

agreement

Exposure/Exchange visit to observe climate smart villages/successful cases in

South Asia

Exchange of traditional adaptive knowledge and community based practices

in local language like on-farm water management, water shed management,

water harvesting and sharing among others

Formation of the experts groups on climate smart agriculture and public and

private partnership needed to CSA

To require Regional Collaboration and Cooperation in agriculture for

identification, documentation and sharing of successful climate smart

technologies in local language among the SAARC countries through

involvement of different stakeholders and arrange exposure visit for

successful cases

Human Resource Development for research and extension personnel on

climate adaptable technologies in regional basis

Use of ICT including mobile, mass media, community radio, website,

television, face book, video of success story, satellite channel in extension

use, use Agrimet bulletins for agro advisory weather forecasting system,

information generation and dissemination as well as remote sensing

technologies

Create National cell on natural disaster management at National Agricultural

Research System in all SSARC member countries

Visit to SAC

Six trainees from Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Bhutan visited SAC on 5

June 2014

Dr. Abid Mahmood, Director-General ( Agriculture), AARI, Faisalabad, Pakistan

and Dr. Dil Baugh Muhammad, Agronomist, CCRI, Multan and Dr. Khalid

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Abdullah, Cotton Commissioner, Ministry of Textile, Government of Pakistan

visited SAC on 19 June 2014

Ms. Pema Choden, Ambassador, Royal Bhutan Embassy in Dhaka visited on 17

June 2014

Dr. Isabelle Autunis, College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan

visited SAC on 7 September, 2014. Also a team consist of Mr. Sonam Tashi,

RNR-RDC, Bhutan; Ms. Korma , NSAC, Paro; Mr. Sangay Dorji, Regional Seed

Centre, Bhur, Bhutan and Mr. Ugyan Tshering, RNR-RDC visited SAC on 23

September 2014, during both visit, a presentation on the activities of SAARC

Agriculture Centre was presented and the visitors showed their keen interest to

know about the Centre

Three scientists Dr. Kailah, Dr. Acharya and Dr. Dasho Namgay Wangchuk,

Director General of Council for RNR Research of Bhutan (CoRRB), Ministry of

Agriculture & Forests, Bhutan visited Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute,

Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council,

SAARC Agriculture Centre and Krishi Gobeshone Foundation on 11 February

2014.

Visit of SAC Professionals

Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung, Senior Program Specialist (NRM) organized and attended the “Regional Orientation Meeting on SPINet” held in Sri Lanka during 23-27th June 2014

Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung, Senior Program Specialist (NRM) organized and attended in the “Regional Consultation Meeting on “Geo-spatial technology to assess and monitor land degradation in SAARC Countries” held in Bhutan during 23-25 December, 2014

Dr. Mohammad Musa, Senior Program Specialist (Crops) organized and attended the Experts Consultation Meeting for Inception on “Identification of Rice Varieties Tolerant to Abiotic Stresses for adaptive trial in SAARC countries “was held in Bangladesh during 10-11 June 2014

Dr. Mohammad Musa, Senior Program Specialist (Crops) attended in the “Agricultural Extension in South Asia (AESA)” held in Nepal during 14-15 January, 2014

Dr. Mohammad Musa, Senior Program Specialist (Crops) organized and attended “Expert consultation meeting for inception on Regional Adaptive Trials on Oilseeds in SAARC Countries” was held in Bhutan during 28-29 May 2014

Ms. Nasrin Akter, Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture) organized and attended on “Regional Experts Consultation Workshop on Mite Management of Coconut in SAARC Member Countries” was held at Bangladesh during 10-11 August 2014

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Ms. Nasrin Akter, Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture) organized and

attended a “Regional Workshop on Good Agriculture practices of Fruits and

Vegetables in SAARC Member Countries “held in Bangladesh from 22-24

September 2014.

Dr. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock) organized and

attended a “Regional Orientation Meeting and Exposure on “High Yielding

Dairy Buffalo Breed Development in SAARC Countries” held in Pakistan

during 16-18 December 2014

Dr. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock) organized and

attended in the Regional Training on “Fish Processing, Quality Control and

HACCP” held in India during 18-24 October 2014

Dr. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock) organized and

attended in the regional training on “Advances in Poultry Nutrition and Feed

Technology” held in India during 6-15 April 2014

Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, Director, SAC attended in the concluding session of the

regional training on “Advances in Poultry Nutrition and Feed Technology”

held in India during 6-15 April 2014

Dr. Niazuddin, Senior Technical Officer, SAC attended the South Asian Regional

Policy Workshop on “Disasters, Climate Change and Agriculture, Land &

Food Security’ was held in Nepal during 10-11, November, 2014

SAC team visited BJRI Jute Genome Centre

Professional and technical staff of SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) visited

special Jute Genome Centre of Bangladesh Jute Research Institute (BJRI) in 2014.

During visit, BJRI Scientists showed the activities and important machineries of

the Genome Centre. They informed that Genome Centre in Bangladesh is also

working for another genome Sequence of the living organisms.

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The following International Collaborations with SAC have been

initiated

Collaborations

International

SAARC-Australia Project – cropping systems modelling

SAC-IRRI – Rice variety for aboitic stresses

SAC-APAARI/GFAR - ICT

SAC-ICRISAT - pulses

SAC-ICIMOD – GIS application

SAC-CCAFS – seed bank

SAC-FAO – capacity development (project being initiated)

SAC-IFC – Seed forum

SAARC Centres

SAC-SFC – degradation of land (agriculture-forest)

SAC-SMRC – monsoon initiatives

SAC-International Rice Research Institute

An agreement was made between SAARC Agriculture Centre, Dhaka and

International Rice Research Institute, Philippine under a project “Stress tolerant

rice for poor farmers in Africa and South Asia (STRASA)” funded by the Bill and

Melinda Gates Foundation. The major objective of the project was to reduce

poverty and hunger and increase food and income security of resource-poor farm

families and rice consumers in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa through the

development and dissemination of rice varieties tolerant to abiotic stresses. For

South Asia it involves developing and disseminating rice varieties tolerant to

drought, submergence and, salinity; building capacity of researchers and seed

producers, promoting the exchange of elite germplasm and donor varieties; and

up-scaling seed production and adoption.

Under the collaboration, SAC-IRRI has taken jointly activities on stress tolerance

rice varieties in 2014.

SAC-APAARI/GFAR/FAO

The centre closely worked with Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research

Institute (APAARI), GFAR and FAO in promoting agriculture research and

development in SAARC member

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SAC-IFC

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group

and SAC agreed to initiate a Project to assist in harmonization of regional seed

regulations to enhance regional seed trade among SAARC member states as well

as facilitate the strengthening of SAARC Seed Forum (SSF).

SAC-ICRISAT

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)

and SAC inspired by their common goals and objectives agreed to envision a

prosperous, food-secure and resilient dryland tropics as erratic rainfall, degraded

soils and biodiversity, water scarcity, droughts, floods and very poor physical and

social infrastructure of South Asia in order to enhance food and nutritional

insecurity as well as the livelihood of the poor farmers through the active

participation.

The MoU has been circulated among the Member States for their concurrence on

the content and principles of collaboration. Once inputs from the Member States

have been received through the SAARC Secretariat, the MoU will be signed and

collaborative activities will be planned and implemented.

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Share of activities covering different programmes of SAC

Common updates for the Year of 2014

Planned activities of 2014

In 2014, a total of 34 activities were planned and approved by the SAC Governing

Board. Overall 28 of the activities have been completed and reported in this

report, while 6 activities are ongoing and carried over to 2015 work plan. The

activities of SAC are classified into two groups as regular and need-based

activities. All the regular activities were completed and 18 activities of the need-

based activities were completed.

There are 8 programmes

in SAC under which

different activities are

implemented. In 2014,

maximum of 30% of the

activities were related to

crops and agriculture in

general followed by 20%

to knowledge

management and 18% to

capacity development.

Horticulture, fisheries

and livestock as new

program is gradually

picking up the momentum.

The Eighth Meeting of the Governing Board of SAC

The Inaugural Session of the Eighth Meeting of the Governing Board (GB) of SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) was held at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), Dhaka during 29-30 September 2014. The inaugural session was graced by Dr. S M Nazmul Islam, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of Bangladesh as Chief Guest; Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Mondal, Director General, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) as the Special Guest; Mr. Abdul Motaleb Sarker, Director General (SAARC & BIMSTEC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Government of Bangladesh as the Guest of Honour.

Mr. MJH Jabed, Director, SAARC Secretariat represented the Secretary General of SAARC. The GB Members from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were present in the Meeting. Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan, High Commission in Dhaka; Country Representative, CIMMYT-Bangladesh and Professionals of National Agricultural Research System of

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Bangladesh also attended the inaugural session. The Meeting was presided over by Dr. Md. Kamal Uddin, Executive Chairman, BARC.

Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, Director, SAC welcomed the Hon‟ble Secretary, Ministry

of Agriculture, Bangladesh, all the delegates from SAARC Member States, and

High Officials on the dais as well as all the participants in the inaugural session.

He pointed out a brief description of important programs of SAC and its recent

activities. Dr. Azad also highlighted the SAC‟s activities to be completed in 2015

and expressed his hope that the GB Members would provide valuable guidance

for implementing SAC programs in the coming years. Mr. MJH Jabed, Director,

SAARC Secretariat in his inaugural remarks, conveyed the greetings of His

Excellency Secretary General, SAARC Secretariat for the 8th GB Meeting. He

mentioned that the agriculture has a deep impact on culture and livelihood in the

region, Mr. Jabed reiterated that South Asia enjoys a competitive advantage in

agriculture. Rightly so, for livelihood and food security of majority of the

population in South Asia depends on agriculture.

He also informed the meeting that agriculture provides 51% of the employment

and accounts for 18% of the economy. Mr. Jabed commended the SAC for

achieving 95% of the planned activities. He briefly touched on the recent decision

of the SAARC higher bodies on the reorganization of the SAARC regional

institution. Mr. Jabed wished that GB members will extend all possible support

and guidance to take forward SAC and its program in future.

Guest of Honour, Mr. Abdul Motaleb Sarker, Director General (SAARC & BIMSTEC), MoFA welcomed the GB Members to the 8th GB Meeting. He

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focused the importance of SAC as agriculture is an important agenda of the SAARC Member States. Referring to the recent decisions to go for selective closure and merger of Regional Centres‟ he commended that due to hard work, SAC has survived in the process. However, urged SAC not be complacent, rather look forward to take up greater challenges to develop agriculture sector in the region. He urged GB Members to critically review and provide direction to SAC for better future. Special Guest, Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Mondal, Director General, BARI expressed his satisfaction on the progress of SAC and its renewed importance in the region.

He mentioned the benefits of the regional adaptive trial on vegetable, oilseed, and pulses which the centre has initiated. Highlighting the importance of food security and poverty alleviation in the region, he mentioned the role of SAC as vital. Dr. S M Nazmul Islam, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Bangladesh extended warm welcome on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh to all the distinguished members of the SAC Governing Board. Hon‟ble Secretary briefly mentioned the importance of agriculture and the significant progress of Bangladesh has been made. He offered the support from Bangladesh to the regional agriculture development. Dr. Islam also emphasised on the regional cooperation, regional growth and food safety through various interventions in agriculture by SAC. He congratulated SAC and professionals of Member States for their contribution in agricultural development in the region.

Dr. Md. Kamal Uddin, Executive Chairman, BARC extended his warm welcome to the Hon‟ble Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Honourable GB Members and other distinguished guests. Dr. Kamal underlined the significant contribution and initiatives made by SAC. Some of the activities like adaptive trials, regional consultation on trans-boundary animal diseases, mite management, climate change issue and GMO were mentioned. He restated the role of 8th GB Meeting in formulating programs for addressing emerging challenges in the agriculture and allied disciplines in South Asia. He wished that the meeting critically review and plan forward looking plans for SAC.

Director, SAC presented the Report to the GB which comprises of review of the activities of 2013 and progress of implementation during 2014.

The Chairman of the Board thanked the GB members for their constructive contribution and cooperation during the meeting. The Members appreciated the warm hospitality accorded to them and the arrangements made by the Centre. The Members also thanked the professionals and GS staff of the Centre for their cooperation.

Recommended need based Programme for 2015

• SAARC Seed Bank: Regional study for assessment of demand & supply of

the common varieties

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• Good Agriculture practices of fruits and vegetables in SAARC member

countries

• Potentials and Prospects of Floriculture Sector to Improve Livelihood of

farmers in SAARC Countries

• Use of geo information technology for mapping of land degradation in

SAARC countries

• Technological advancement in agro-forestry systems: Strategy for Climate

Smart Agriculture Technologies

• SAARC Regional Study on Sericulture scenario–emerging industry for

poverty alleviation

• Status and future prospect of organic agriculture for safe food security in

SAARC countries

• Regional Initiation on Improvement of Vegetables and Adaptive Trial in

SAARC Countries

• Regional Adaptive Trial on Oilseed in SAARC Countries

• Regional Initiation on Improvement of Pulses and Adaptive Trial in SAARC

Countries

• Introduction of cluster bean (guar) in SAARC Countries

• Identification of rice varieties tolerant to abiotic stresses

• High yielding Dairy Buffalo Breed Development in SAARC Member

countries

• Development and Implementation of the SAARC Pesticide Information

Network (SPINet)

• High Yielding Buffalo Breed Development in SAARC Countries

• SAARC Adaptive salt (stress) tolerant wheat variety trial

• Regional Training on formulation of bio-pesticide from locally available

resources

• Regional Training of Molecular Genetic Characterization of Farm Animal

Genetic Resources

The 30th

SAARC Charter Day on 8 December 2014

The Charter of SAARC is constantly reminding us our endeavours and

commitment to assist the member states to prepare the national plans of action to

address issues of food security through agricultural development, poverty

alleviation, empowerment of women, and human resource development.

To commemorate the 30th SAARC Charter Day, a big celebration event was

organized on 8th December, 2014 at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council

(BARC), Dhaka Bangladesh by SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) and SAARC

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Meteorological Research Centre (SMRC) in order to raise the public awareness

about the government‟s commitment to the SAARC process. Program was started

with hoisting of SAARC & its member states flags. Pigeons and colourful

balloons were released at the front of SAC Office.

A grand rally starting from the premise of the „Mathsha Bhaban‟ to National Press

club was organized. Art competition for children on „Agriculture and Climate‟

was held, illumination of SAC & SMRC building Centre‟s products and services

were displayed in order to spread the messages of SAARC.

Two seminars entitled “Horticulture for livelihood Support in SAARC Member

Countries” by Dr. S.P. Ghosh, former DDG (Hort.), ICAR, India, and

“Empowerment of Women in SAARC Region” by Mrs. Maria Kashif, Executive

Secretary, SAARC Women Association, Dhaka. Dr. Rafiqul Islam Mondal,

Executive Chairman, BARC presided over the seminar.

Mr. Md. Nazmul Islam, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of

Bangladesh graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He remarked that SAARC

had witnessed steady progress in a wide range of areas identified for co-operation

during last three decades. He also mentioned that a coordinated regional response

was need of the day to meet the challenges of climate change, health, education,

trade liberalization, disasters and food insecurity.

Abdul Motaleb Sarker, Director General of SAARC & BIMSTEC highly

appreciated the vital role of SAC for establishment of SAARC Seed Bank,

SAARC Food Bank, Livestock and Gene Bank.

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Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, Director, SAC stated in his welcome address that

objectives of celebrating the SAARC Charter Day were to promote the regional

peace, stability, prosperity and increasing regional cooperation. Md. Shah Alam,

Director, SMRC also spoke on the importance of the day. Dr. Md. Nurul Alam,

SPS (PSPD) read out the message of H.E. Arjun Bahadur Thapa, Secretary

General of SAARC. At the end certificates were distributed among the winners of

the arts competition.

Financial Report

Annual Audit for the financial year 2013

Annual Audit for the financial year 2013 of the SAARC Agriculture Centre

(SAC) was conducted by a Joint Audit Team (JAT) during 24-25 June 2014. The

JAT 2013 audited the annual accounts and related statement of the receipt and

payment of the Centre from January-December 2013. The JAT 2013 found that

necessary account and financial reports were maintained by the Centre. The Joint

Audit Team (JAT11) comprised of Maldives and Nepal.

Fund

Two types of budgets are prepared for each fiscal year: Institutional and Program

Cost budgets. In implementing the programs, the Centre aims to maintain a

balance of expenditure between the institutional and Program costs.

The Institutional and the Program costs are shared by all the SAARC member

countries according to the SAARC proportion formula.

As the host, the Government of Bangladesh provides capital costs and other

infrastructure facilities. The capital cost support such as accommodation,

furniture, vehicles, equipment etc. is proposed on an occasional basis based on

requirements.

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The shares of contribution for each SAARC country are as follows:

Name of Countries Institutional Cost share Program cost share

Afghanistan 3.09% 5.26%

Bangladesh 47.87% 11.28%

Bhutan 3.09% 5.26%

India 18.76% 31.92%

Maldives US $ 500 (Fixed) 0.00%

Nepal 6.63% 11.28%

Pakistan 13.93% 23.72%

Sri Lanka 6.63% 11.28%

Total: 100% 100%

Statement of Expenditure for the year of 2014

A) Institutional Cost: Figure in US$

Sl. No Head of Accounts Amount US$

1 Allowances to Director and other Professional Staffs 93,253.47

2 Salaries and allowances to GS Officers and Staff 180,331.25

3 Printing, Stationeries and Reproduction 3,560.70

4 Travel Cost and Perdiem 917.45

5 Utilities Services and Maintenance 14,562.63

6 Local Hospitality for Governing Board, Selection Committee

meetings

8,778.28

7 Vehicles Generator Lift, AC etc. POL, Insurance, Repairs etc. 13,960.07

8 Contingencies 9,799.96

A) Total of Institutional Cost: 325,163.81

B) Programme Cost: Figure in US$

Sl. No Head of Accounts Amount US$

1. SAARC AgriNews (4 issues) 5,852.14

2. SAARC Journal of Agriculture (2 issues) 3,898.92

3. SAC Annual Report – 2013 1,061.54

4. In-house Res. and Pub. on Thrust Areas of Agriculture in

SAARC Countries: Printing

12,101.52

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Sl. No Head of Accounts Amount US$

5. Food grain situation in SAARC Countries and data for SAARC

food Bank

258.06

6. Observance of SAAARC Charter Day 1,424.38

7. Capacity building and professionals development 4,974.86

8. Program Building, Monitoring and Backstopping 2,905.05

9. Acquisition of information materials in agricultural and allied

fields from SAARC countries & other countries/organizations

6,989.55

10. ICT Mediated Communication 5,348.02

11. Distribution of Information Materials 11,397.61

12. Reproduction of information materials audio

visual/prog./dubbing/sub-titling

998.69

13. Promotional Activities on SAARC Agriculture Centre 2,300.28

14. Internship, Exchange Visit, Exposure Visit & Graduate Research 387.10

15. SAARC agriculture outlook 2,000.00

16. SAARC agriculture archive 385.60

17. Regional Initiation on Improvement of Vegetables and Adaptive

Trial in SAARC Countries

12.31

18. Dev. & Imple. of the SAARC Pesticide Info. Network (SPINet) 16,102.89

19. Use of Geo-info. Tech. for Mapping of Land Degradation in 17,667.24

20. Reg. Initiation on Dev. of Pulses & Adaptive Trial in SAARC 597.16

21. Training Prog. On “Fish Proces. Aqua. Control.” 13,249.44

22. High Yielding Buffalo Breed Development in SAARC 12,398.34

23. SAARC Seed Bank: Regional Study for Ass. – R/W 28.72

24. Identification of Rice Vari. Tolerant to Abiotic Stress 10,447.20

25. Regional Adaptive Trial on Oilseed in SAARC 14,865.57

26. Reg. Trial. on Adv. In Poultry Nutri. Feed Tec. 15,766.93

27. Reg. Consul. Works. on Mite Mang. Coconut 8,851.62

28. Miscellaneous/Incidental Charges 703.16

B) Total of Programme Cost: 172,973.90

Total Institutional and Programme Cost (A+B) 498,137.71

C) SAARC-Australia Project Fund – 2014 14,917.29

D) Capital Cost 9,946.74

Grand Total (A+B+C+D) 523,001.74

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Audit Certificate

The Director,

SAARC Agriculture Centre

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Subject: Joint Audit Report on the Accounts and Operations of the SAARC

Agriculture Centre (SAC), Dhaka for the period 1st January 2014 to 31

st December

2014.

Dear Sir,

Enclosed please find Joint Audit Report on the Accounts and Operations of the SAARC

Agriculture Centre (SAC), Dhaka for the period of 1st January 2014 to 31

st December

2014.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the International Standards of Supreme Audit

Institutions (ISSAIs). The Audit Report consists of the following four parts:

Part I: Auditors‟ Report on the Statement of Receipts & Payments of the SAARC

Agriculture Centre for the period from 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2014;

Part II: Management Letter including Observations and Recommendations;

Part III: Follow-up of the Joint Audit Team (JAT 13) Recommendations; and

Part IV: Brief Profile of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC).

We would like to take this opportunity to extend our thanks to the Director and Staff of

the Centre for cooperation and assistance extended to us. This indeed was instrumental in

facilitating the timely completion of audit.

Yours sincerely,

(CA. Baikuntha Bahadur Adhikari)

Director,

Office of the Auditor General of Nepal

Kathmandu, Nepal

(Syed Muhammad Tahir Kamal)

Director General,

Office of the Auditor General of Pakistan.

Islamabad, Pakistan.

Joint Audit Team

Dhaka, Bangladesh

07 August 2015

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SAARC Agriculture Centre at a glance

Genesis

The Heads of the States or governments established the South Asian Association

for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) on the 8th day of December 1985. Seven

south Asian Nations, namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, The Maldives, Nepal,

Pakistan and Sri Lanka were the founder members of the Regional Association.

Later Afghanistan became the eighth member country in 2007.

SAARC Agriculture Centre (renamed in April 2007 from SAARC Agricultural

Information Centre, SAIC) is the first regional Centre established by the SAARC.

The Centre started functioning in 1988 with a mandate for information

management, primarily in the field of agriculture and allied discipline.

With the passage of time, the Centre braced up broader challenges to make

regional cooperation more responsive to the needs of the stakeholders and

farming communities as South Asia heads for a new order of agricultural

transformation. The SAARC Agriculture Centre thus has been given an enhanced

mandate for agricultural research and development, policy planning, and

knowledge management.

Goal

Promotion of agricultural Research and Development (R&D) as well as

technology dissemination initiatives for sustainable agricultural development and

poverty alleviation in the region

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Objectives

1. To strengthen agricultural research and accelerate technology transfer

through establishing regional networks on agricultural and allied

disciplines, particularly among agricultural research and extension institutes,

professionals, policy planners and stakeholders.

2. To provide inputs for developing regional policies, strategies, projects,

primarily through developing networks in crop, livestock and fisheries

sectors; and for efficient management of soil, water and other natural

resources.

3. To promote new and innovative techniques and systems in agriculture,

including production, post-harvest and food processing.

4. To facilitate collaborative studies, inter alia, on agricultural marketing and

distribution systems, harmonization of agricultural related standards,

promotion of agricultural trade, food security, risks and disaster

management in agriculture.

5. To facilitate and undertake collaborative capacity building programmes in

agriculture and allied sectors with focus on skill development and research

on frontier areas.

6. To collate and disseminate information for agricultural advancement in the

region.

Personnel

The Centre is manned with regionally recruited Professionals and General

Services Staff (GSS) from the host country. These personnel support programme

planning and implementation.

Funding

The Centre is supported directly by the member states through their annual

financial contributions based on the annual budget. In implementing the

programme, the Centre aims to maintain the balance of expenditure between

institutional cost and programme cost. The program and institutional costs are

shared by the member states according to the SAARC proportion formula.

The Government of Bangladesh provides the capital cost including infrastructure.

Programme Development

The Centre institutionalizes "Participatory need-based programme building

through consultations". The process involves participation of stakeholders at

country levels as well as synthesis and vetting at the experts level for programme

development. The SAARC Technical Committee on Agriculture and Rural

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Development (TCARD) also provides broad guidelines of programmes. The

proposals are reviewed during the Governing Board (GB) Meeting for further

direction.

The annual programme proposals recommended by the Governing Board are

further reviewed by the SAARC programming Committee and subsequently

approved by the Standing Committee. The Council of Ministers of the Member

States gives concurrence prior to the convening of the SAARC Summit.

Major Activities

Providing policy inputs to the SAARC higher authorities for consideration

particularly at the ministerial level meeting on agriculture. Promoting outreach

programmes through www.saarcagri.org to provide timely, relevant and universal

access to information and knowledge resources to all agricultural practitioners of

member states.

Production of regular publication (newsletters, bulletins, booklet, journal, etc.)

Production of technical publications from priority programmes (directories,

statistical bulletins, bibliographies, databases, union catalogue, report,

workshop proceedings, etc.)

Audio-visual media production and reproduction

Providing inputs for developing regional policies and strategies.

Providing and automated library services and on-line services.

Hosting of workshops, seminars, symposium consultation and human

resources development programmes and carrying out in-house research and

publications on thrust areas of agriculture

Establishing institutional linkages with relevant institutions.

Undertaking activities leading to exchange of the best practices for adaptation

and/or absorption; time-bound short and medium terms projects and

programmes; and enhancing capacities of the agricultural communities of the

SAARC countries.

Challenges

Nearly 50% of 1.5 billion people in the region live below poverty line,

predominant in rural areas. On one hand, population is rising and on the other,

the cultivated land area is decreasing.

Food Security at the back drop of climate change.

Ensuring safe food against agro - chemicals.

Integration and application of new science in various products, processes and

services for strengthening food, health and livelihood systems.

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Integration and application of new science in various products, processes and

services for strengthening food, health and livelihood systems.

A spirited extension work to reduce yield gaps between the research field and

the farmer's field with a blend of traditional knowledge and wisdom with

modern technologies.

Skill enhancement of agro - entrepreneurship

Dissemination of new and sustainable technology using modern information

and communication technologies (ICT) to accelerate the technology transfer

process.

Minimizing postharvest losses; improvement in agro-processing; value

addition; efficient utilization of crop residues and bi-products; and

improvement in marketing facilities of agricultural products.

“Putting research emphasis on sustainable management of natural resources.

Forging Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) in agricultural technology.

Services

The Centre's services and products are aimed to enhance the performances of

scientists, extension service providers, technologists, etc. through support in

research and development in agriculture and provide inputs for developing

regional policies, strategies and programmes.

Organogram

Governing Board

Director

Agril. Mgt. Div. (14)

- Professionals

(DD-1, SPS-3)

- Technical Staff

(SPO-4, PO-3)

- GSS (3)

PP Division (10)

- Professionals

(DD-1, SPS-3)

- Technical Staff

(SPO-2, PO-2)

- GSS (2)

Personal Staff (4)Support Service Section

(Admin & Finance-15)

KMN Division (16)

- Professionals

(DD-1, SPS-3)

- Technical Staff

(SPO-2)

- GSS (10)

Governing Board

Director

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Regional Member Countries

Afghanistan

Bangladesh

Bhutan

India

Maldives

Nepal

Pakistan

Sri Lanka

Regional Governing Board Members, SAC, 2014

The Governing Board (GB) is the apex body to supervise functions of the Centre. The

GB is composed of eminent personalities in the field of agriculture from each member

countries. The GB analyses the policy matters, approves the projects, recommends the

annual budget estimates, monitors and evaluates the administrative and overall operations

of SAC. A Chairman designated for a two-year term from the member countries by

alphabetical rotation heads the Board. The GB meets usually once in a year and may meet

more frequently if necessary. A representative of the SAARC Secretariat also attends the

GB meeting. The Proceedings of the GB meetings need to be approved by the Standing

Committee and the Council of Ministers.

Mr. Gh. Rabani Haqiqatpal Member, SAC GB and Director

Marketing, Economics & Statistics Division

Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock Ministry of Agriculture Compound

Jamal Mina, Kart-e-Sakhi

Kabul, Afghanistan

Dr. Md. Kabir Ikramul Haque

Member, SAC GB and Member-Director (Fisheries)

Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, Farmgate, New Airport Road

Dhaka - 1215, Bangladesh

Ms. Singye Wangmo

Member, SAC GB and Program Director

Information & Communication Services (ICS)

Ministry of Agriculture, Tashichhodzong Complex

Thimphu, Bhutan

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Dr. Alok Jha

Assistant Director General (International Relations)

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

Room 212, Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi, India

Mr. Ibrahim Shabau Member, SAC GB and Deputy Director General

Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture

Male, Maldives

Mr. Ishwar Prasad Rijal

Member, SAC GB and Chief

Agriculture Information & Communication Centre

Ministry of Agriculture & Development

Govt. of Nepal, Harihar Bhwan, Lalitpur, Nepal

Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh

Dr. Ch. Muhammad Sharif Member, SAC GB and Director General (NARC)

Social Science Division

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC)

Islamabad, Pakistan

Dr. H.H.D. Fonseka Chairman, SAC GB and

Senior Research Officer

Horticultural Crop Research and Development Institute

Department of Agriculture

Gannoruwa, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka

Mr. MJH Jabed

Member, SAC GB and Director, SAARC Secretariat

Kathmandu, Nepal

Mr. Rahat Bin Zaman

Director (SAARC & BIMSTEC) and Member, SAC GB

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of the People‟s Republic of Bangladesh

Shegun Bagicha, Dhaka-1000

Dr. Abul Kalam Azad Director, SAARC Agriculture Centre &

Member Secretary, SAC Governing Board

BARC Complex, Farmgate, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh

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Team at SAC

No. Name Designation

1 Dr. Abul Kalam Azad Director

2 Dr. Muhammad Nurul Alam Senior Program Specialist (PS & PD)

3 Ms. Nasrin Akter Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture)

4 Dr. Mohammad Musa Senior Program Specialist (Crops)

5 Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung Senior Program Specialist (NRM)

6 Mr. Mohammad Abdullah Senior Program Officer (Publication)

7 Dr. Md. Niazuddin Senior Technical Officer

8 Ms. Mafruha Begum Senior Program Officer (I & C)

9 Mr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky Senior Program Officer (Livestock)

10 Ms. Fatema Nasrin Jahan Senior Program Officer (NRM)

11 Mr. Shah Alam Mawla Chowdhury Video Production Officer

12 Mr. Md. Saifur Rahman Administrative Officer

13 Mr. Md. Mizanur Rahman IT Manager (Database)

14 Mr. Mizanur Rahman Personal Officer to Director

15 Mr. Md. Abdul Kadir IT Manager (Software)

16 Mr. ATM Mostafizur Rahman Mojumder Senior Finance Officer (In-charge)

17 Mr. Ananda Chandra Kha Office Assistant

18 Mr. Md. Nurul Wara Program Assistant

19 Mrs. Nazmoon Nahar Cataloguer

20 Mr. Md. Nurul Amin Driver

21 Mr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Driver

22 Mr. Md. Shahidul Alam Khan Lift-cum-Gen. Operator

23 Mr. Md. Ruhul Amin Sarder Driver

24 Mr. Md. Harun-or-Rashid Messenger

25 Mr. Md. Helal Uddin Messenger

26 Mr. Md. Akhter Hossain Watchman

27 Mr. Md. Altaf Hossain MLSS

28 Mr. Md. Abu Taher Janitor

29 Mr. Md. Ashraful Alam MLSS

30 Mr. Md. Altaf Hossain MLSS

31 Mr. Md. Abu Taher Janitor

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Outgoing Professional

Dr. M. Nurul Alam left SAARC Agriculture Centre

(SAC) after completion of his service tenure on 31

December 2014. He joined at SAC as Senior

Programme Specialist (Priority System & Programme

Development). He joined at SAC on 1 January 2009.

Before joining SAC, he was working as expert in food

security project of FAO. He started his career in 1978 as

Scientific Officer of Bangladesh Agricultural Research

Institute. He did his PhD in Agronomy. He has a good

number of training on various fields of agriculture. He

carries a vast record of services in farming system research and agronomy.

Regional Programs implemented in 2014, Coordinator and

national focal points

Title of the program “Advances in poultry nutrition and feed technology”

Program Coordinator: Dr. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock), SAC

Focal point

Mr. Nazrul Islam

Assistant General Manager (AGM), Gojaria Feed Mill, Kazi Farms Group, Dhaka- 1209

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Md. Emran Hossain

Associate Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chittagong Veterinary

and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chittagong-4202, Bangladesh

E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Duptho Tshewang

Senior LPS, National Poultry Development Centre, Sarpang, Bhutan

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Dr. J. B. Gurung

Samden Group of Companies, Thimphu, Bhutan

Email: [email protected]

Dr. Avishek Biswas

Senior Scientist, Avian Nutrition & Feed Technology Division, Central Avian Research

Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly-243122 (U.P), India

Cell: +91 9690170470, Fax: +91 581 2301321, Email: [email protected]

Dr. (Ms.) Pragya Bhadauria

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Scientist, Avian Nutrition & Feed Technology Division, Central Avian Research

Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly-243122 (U.P), India, Cell: +91 8057676702, Fax: +91 581

2301321, Email: [email protected]

Dr. B. Prakash

Scientist, Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad- 500030, Andhra

Pradesh, India, Cell: +91 9177215003, Fax: +91 40 24017116

Email: [email protected]

Dr. B. Piruthiviraj Kumar

Heads, Quality Control and Research & Development departments, M/S Globion India

Private Limited located, Andhra Pradesh, India

Dr. Rahul Ramesh Sawarkar

Technical Manager, AB Vista South Asia, B-3/10, Nirmal Township, Near SunOrbit,

Anandnagar, Sinhagad Road, Pune-411051, Maharashtra, INDIA

Mr. Aboobakuru Mohamed

Agriculture Officer, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Male, Maldives

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Mr. Pashupati Nath

Livestock Development Officer, District Livestock Development Office, Bajhang, Nepal

Email: [email protected]

Dr. Ram Gulam Yadav

Livestock Development Officer, Poultry Development Farm, Khajura, Banke, Nepal

Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Hewage Iresh Rasika Leelarathne

Supervisor, Livestock Field Station, Dept. of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,

University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Email: [email protected]

Galahitiye Gedera Chamila Priyashantha Galahitiyawa (G.G.C.P.Galahitiyawa)

Manager in charge (poultry operations), CIC Agri Businesses (Pvt) Ltd, Dharmashoka

Mawatha, Lewella, Kandy

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

Dr. Sucharitha Balachandran

Senior Manager – Nutrition, Ceylon Grain Elevators PLC, 15, Rock House Lane,

Colombo 15, Sri Lanka, Email: [email protected]

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Title of the Program “Fish Processing, Quality Control, Hazard Analysis and

Critical Control Point”

Program Coordinator: Dr. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock),

SAC

Focal point

Muhammad Golam Mustafa

Lecturer, Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology

University, Sonapur, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh

Cell: +88 01712 186434, Email: [email protected]

Dr. Sherub Phuntsho

Regulatory and Quarantine Officer, Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority

Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan, Cell: +975 1765 9430, Land: +975 07 251798

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Karma Dorji

Dzongkhag (District) Livestock Officer, Ministry Of Agriculture and Forests,

Department of Livestock, Samtse Dzongkhag, Bhutan.

Cell: +975 1774 0303, Email: [email protected]

Dr. Binod Bihari Sahu

Senior Scientist, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA-ICAR), P.O.

Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751002, Odisha, India

Email: [email protected]; Tele. No.: 09437262566

Mrs. Vidya Rajendran

Scientist, Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture (CIBA-ICAR), Santhome High

Road, R.A. Puram, Chennai-600028, India

Email: [email protected]; Tele. No.: 8156904107

Mrs. Laly, S. J.

Scientist, Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT-ICAR), Matsyapuri P.O.,

Cochin-682029, India, Email: [email protected]; Tele. No. : 9495582951

Ms. Parvathy

Scientist, Fish Processing Division, Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin,

Kerala, India

Mr. Venugopal, T. N.

General Manager, M/s. Aqua Sea foods India Pvt. Ltd, Edakochi, Cochin, Kerala, India

Cell: +91-9388616765, Email: [email protected]

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Mr. Nazim Moosa

Assistant Policy Analyst, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, Male, Maldives

Cell: +960 7993937, Phone: +960 7663937/ +960 333 9213

Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Mr. Ahsan Mohamed

Assistant Project Officer, Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, (H.Velaanaage, Seventh

Floor), Male, Maldives, Cell: +960 7993484, Phone: +960 7663937

Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Mrs. H.R. Subhashini

Quality Control Officer, Department of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources

Tel. +94 112 472192, Cell: +94 779 317376, Email: [email protected]

Mr. J.M.A.C. Bandara

Manager, Product, Sales, Sales Promotion & Project, Ceylon Fisheries Corporation

Tel. +94 112 529593, Cell: +94 714 557987, Email: [email protected]

Dr. Rehana Kausar

Senior Scientific Officer (SSO), Aquaculture and Fisheries Program, Animal Sciences

Institute (ASI), NARC, Islamabad, Pakistan

Title of the program “High Yielding Dairy Buffalo Breed Development in

SAARC Countries”

Coordinator: Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock)

Focal Point

Dr. T. Nurun Nahar

Chief Scientific Officer, Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Email: [email protected]

Dr. D. B. Rai

Program Director, National Dairy Development Centre, Yusipang, Department of

Livestock (DoL), Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Bhutan

Email: [email protected]

Dr. A. K. Chakravarty

Principal Scientist and In Charge, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, National Dairy

Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Bhola Shankar Shrestha

Chief (Senior Scientist, S4), Animal Breeding Division, Khumaltar, Nepal

Email: [email protected]

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Dr. Muhammad Nawaz Saeed

Director General (Extension), Livestock and Dairy Development Department,

Government of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan

Email: [email protected]

Dr. J. H. Sunil

Assistant Director (Base Farm and Technology Dissemination), Artificial Insemination

Centre, Department of Animal Production and Health, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

Email: [email protected]

Title of the program: Regional Consultation Workshop on “Mite

Management of Coconut in SAARC member countries”

Coordinator: Nasrin Akter, Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture)

Focal point

Mr. Phuntsho Loday

Senior Laboratory Technician/Assistant Entomologist, National Plant Protection Centre,

Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Post Box: 670,

Semtokha, Thimphu, Bhutan

Dr. (Mrs.) Chandrika Mohan

Principal Scientist (Entomology), CPCRI Regional Station, Kayangulam, Krishnapuram

(P.O), Alapuzha, Kerala, India – 690 533

Ms. Jawaidha Ahmed

Plant protection Officer, Plant Health Services, Plant and Animal Health Section,

Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture, The Republic of Maldives

Mr. Dinesh Babu Tiwari

Senior Plant Protection Officer, Plant Protection Directorate, Ministry of Agriculture

Development, Government of Nepal, Hariharbhawan, Nepal

Dr. Abdul Hameed Solangi

PSO (Plant Introduction Centre), SARC, PARC, Karachi, Pakistan

Dr. Nayanie S Aratchige

Principal Entomologist, Crop Protection Division, Coconut Research Institute, Lunuwila,

Sri Lanka

Professor Dr. K. Ramaraju

Department of Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641003,

India

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Dr. Md. Nazirul Islam

Principal Scientific Officer, Regional Horticulture Research Station, BARI, Norsingdi

Dr. Syed Nurul Alam

Chief Scientific Officer & Head, Entomology Division, BARI, Joydebpur, Gazipur,

Bangladesh

Contributors from SAC

Ms. Nasrin Akter, Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture)

Dr. Muhammad Nurul Alam, Senior Program Specialist (PSPD)

Dr. Muhammad Musa, Senior Program Specialist (Crops)

Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung, Senior Program Specialist (NRM)

Dr. Niazuddin, Senior Technical Officer

Mr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Specialist (Livestock)

Ms. Mafruha Begum, Senior Program Officer (Information and Communication)

Ms. Fatema Nasrin Jahan, Senior Program Officer (NRM)

Mr. Shah Alam Mawla Chowdhury, Video Production Officer

Mr. Md. Mizanur Rahman, IT Manager (Database)

Mr. Md. Abdul Kadir, IT Manager (Software)

Mr. Md. Saifur Rahman, Administrative Officer

Mr. ATM Mostafizur Rahman Mojumder, Senior Finance Officer

Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Personal Officer to Director

Ms. Najmoon Nahar, Cataloguer

Mr. Nurul Wara, Program Assistant

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Price list of SAC Publications

Title of the Publications

Price in US$ Retail

Price Published

year SAARC

Countries

Other

Countries

in BD

Taka

Mite management of coconut in SAARC member

countries

5.00 6.00 250.00 2014

Adaptation to Climate Change Impact on Crop

Production in SAARC Member Countries

6.00 10.00 400.00 2014

Prospects, Needs Benefits and Risk Assessment of

Agriculture Related Genetically Modified Products in

SAARC Countries

6.00 10.00 2014

Farm Animal Genetic Resources in SAARC Countries

Diversity, Conservation and Management

8.00 10.00 500.00 2014

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.12 Issue 1 15.00 20.00 200.00 2014

Value Chain Analysis and Market Studies on Fruits and

Vegetable in SAARC Member Countries

5.00 10.00 300.00 2014

National Agricultural Extension Systems in SAARC

Countries

An Analysis of the System Diversity

5.00 10.00 350.00 2014

SAC Monograph

The SAARC Australia Project

Developing Capacity in Cropping Systems Modelling

for South Asia

5.00 10.00 300.00 2014

Coastal and Marine Fisheries Management in SAARC

Countries

5.00 10.00 300.00 2013

Popularizing Multiple Cropping Innovation

As a means to Raise Crop Productivity and Farm

Income

10.00 20.00 600.00 2013

Extent and Potential use of Bio-pesticides for Crop

Production in SAARC Countries

10.00 20.00 600.00 2013

Best Practices and Procedures of Saline Soil

Reclamation Systems in SAARC Countries

10.00 20.00 600.00 2013

National Agricultural Education System in SAARC

Countries

10.00 20.00 600.00 2013

Economic Impact of Transboundary Animal Diseases in

SAARC Countries

5.00 8.00 300.00 2013

Diversity of Veterinary Services in SAARC Countries 6.00 10.00 400.00 2013

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.11 Issue 1 15.00 20.00 200.00 2013

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Title of the Publications

Price in US$ Retail

Price Published

year SAARC

Countries

Other

Countries

in BD

Taka

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.11 Issue 2 15.00 20.00 200.00 2013

Quality Seed in SAARC Countries

Production, Processing, Legal and quality Control and

Marketing System (Reprint)

10.00 20.00 600.00 2013

SAARC Seed Outlook 5.00 10.00 300.00 2012

Current Status and Future Prospect of Pulse Production

in SAARC Countries

5.00

10.00 300.00 2012

Directory of Successful Farm Machinery in SAARC

Countries

7.00 10.00 500.00 2012

Statistical Data Book for Agricultural Research and

Development in SAARC Countries 2012

8.00 10.00 300.00 2012

Impact of Climatic Parameters on Agricultural

Production and Crop Productivity Losses through

Weather Forecast and Advisory Service in SAARC

Countries

6.00

10.00

400.00 2012

Enhancing Oilseeds Production through Improved

Technology in SAARC Countries

5.00

10.00 300.00 2012

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.10 No.1 15.00 20.00 250.00 2012

NARS

National Agricultural Research System in SAARC

Countries-An analysis of System diversity

5.00 10.00 300.00 2011

Pesticide Information of SAARC Countries 10.00 20.00 600.00 2011

Veterinary Public Health and Zoonotic Disease Control

in SAARC Countries (Workshop Proceedings)

6.00 10.00 400.00 2011

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 9 No.1 15.00 20.00 250.00 2011

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 9 No.2 15.00 20.00 250.00 2011

Dairy Production, Quality Control and Marketing

System in SAARC Countries (Workshop Proceedings)

6.00 10.00 400.00 2011

Strategies for Arresting Land Degradation in South

Asian Countries

5.00 10.00 300.00 2011

Quality Seed in SAARC Countries: Production,

Processing, Legal and Quality Control and Marketing

System (Workshop Proceedings)

10.00 20.00 500.00 2011

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Title of the Publications

Price in US$ Retail

Price Published

year SAARC

Countries

Other

Countries

in BD

Taka

Public Sector Support System and its collaboration with

Private Sector for Livestock Development in SAARC

countries

6.00 10.00 300.00

Statistical Data Book for Agricultural Research and

Development in SAARC Countries (2008-09)

8.00 10.00 300.00 2010

Proceedings of Regional Workshop on Hill Agriculture

in SAARC Countries: Constraints & Opportunities

5.00 10.00 250.00 2010

Directory of Ph.D. Dissertations on Agriculture in

SAARC Countries 2000-2006 Vol. 3, India

10.00 15.00 500.00 2010

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 8 No.1 15.00 20.00 250.00 2010

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 8 No.2 15.00 20.00 250.00 2010

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 7 No.1 15.00 20.00 250.00 2009

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 7 No.2 15.00 20.00 250.00 2009

Fodder Germplasm in SAARC Countries 7.00 10.00 300.00 2009

Status of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in SAARC

Countries

5.00 8.00 200.00 2009

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 6 No.1 15.00 20.00 250.00 2008

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 6 No. 2 15.00 20.00 250.00 2008

Regional Workshop on Farm Mechanization for Small

holders Agriculture in SAARC Countries

5.00 7.00 200.00 2008

Directory of Ph.D. Dissertations on Agriculture in

SAARC Countries 2000-2006 Vol. 2, India

10.00 15.00 500.00 2008

Bibliography of Periodicals Available in SAARC

Agriculture Centre Library (2nd

Edition)

2008

Livelihood Development through Agriculture in the

Saline Prone Coastal Ecosystem of SAARC Countries

6.00 10.00 200.00 2008

Best Practices in Animal Feed Production and

Management in SAARC Countries

6.00 10.00 300.00 2008

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 5 No.1 10.00 15.00 125.00 2007

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 5 No.2 10.00 15.00 125.00 2007

Statistics Data Book for Agricultural Research and

Development in SAARC Countries

8.00 10.00 300.00 2007

Crop Varieties in SAARC Countries 3.00 5.00 100.00 2007

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96

Title of the Publications

Price in US$ Retail

Price Published

year SAARC

Countries

Other

Countries

in BD

Taka

Regional Programme Development in Agriculture

Through Consultations

2007

Handbook on Livestock and Poultry Diseases in

SAARC Countries

10.00 15.00 300.00 2007

Training Manual and Interactive Multimedia CD ROMs

on Presentation Technology

3.00 5.00 50.00 2007

Catalogue on Natural Enemies of the Insect Pests Food

Crops in SAARC Countries

10.00 15.00 300.00 2007

Directory of Ph.D. Dissertations on Agriculture in

SAARC Countries 2000-06 Vol. 1, Bangladesh

10.00 15.00 500.00 2007

Bibliography of Periodicals Available in SAARC

Agriculture Centre Library

2007

Bibliography of Periodicals Available in SAARC

Agriculture Centre Library

2013

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 4 (2006) 10.00 15.00 125.00 2006

Proceedings of the Regional workshop on Research-

Extension Linkages for Effective Delivery of

Agricultural Technology in SAARC Countries

5.00 7.00 200.00 2006

Guide on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of SAAC

Countries

10.00 15.00 500.00 2006

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol. 3 (2005) 10.00 15.00 125.00 2005

Risk in Agriculture and their Coping Strategies in

SAARC Countries

5.00 7.00 100.00 2005

Handbook on Fish and Crustacean Diseases in the

SAARC Region

300.00 2005

Agricultural Scientists and Technologists of SAARC

Countries: 2nd Edition

10.00 15.00 500.00 2004

Statistical Bulletin of SAARC Agricultural Data-2004 10.00 15.00 440.00 2004

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.2 (2004) 10.00 15.00 125.00 2004

Proceedings of the Regional Workshop on Attempts

and Successes of ICT Roadmap to Villages in the

SAARC Countries

10.00 15.00 440.00 2004

Technologies on Livestock and Fisheries for Poverty

Alleviation in SAARC Countries

5.00 7.00 150.00 2004

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97

Title of the Publications

Price in US$ Retail

Price Published

year SAARC

Countries

Other

Countries

in BD

Taka

Agricultural Institutions in SAARC Countries: 3rd

Edition

10.00 15.00 440.00 2003

Statistical Bulletin of SAARC Agricultural Data-2003 10.00 15.00 440.00 2003

Plant Genetic Resources of SAARC Countries: Their

Conservation and Management

10.00 15.00 500.00 2003

Proceedings of SAARC Workshop on Post harvest

Technology

5.00 8.00 80.00 2003

Role of Information and Communication Technologies

for Poverty Alleviation through Agricultural

Development in SAARC Countries

10.00 15.00 440.00 2003

SAARC Directory of Seed Companies/ Entrepreneurs

2003

5.00 10.00 150.00 2003

SAARC Journal of Agriculture Vol.1 (2003) 10.00 15.00 125.00 2003

Statistical Bulletin of SAARC Agricultural Data –2002 10.00 15.00 440.00 2002

Proceedings of SAARC Workshop on Soil Fertility

Management for Increasing Productivity in Rice-based

Cropping System

3.00 5.00 75.00 2002

Annotated Bibliography on Seed Quality, Production

and Preservation in the SAARC Region

10.00 15.00 440.00 2002

Agricultural Research and Extension Systems in

SAARC Countries

4.00 6.00 130.00 2001

Quarantine and Phytosanitary Laws of SAARC Member

Countries

6.00 10.00 150.00 2001

Directory of Agricultural Periodicals of SAARC

Countries (3rd edition)

10.00 15.00 500.00 2001

Development of Horticulture in SAARC Countries 3.00 5.00 75.00 2000

Regional Workshop of Experts in SAARC Countries on

Transfer of Technology in Agriculture

3.00 5.00 75.00 1999

Agricultural Information Systems and Services in

SAARC Countries

3.00 5.00 75.00 1999

Union Catalogue of Ph.D. Thesis of SAARC Countries 3.00 5.00 75.00 1999

Agricultural Training in SAARC Countries 2.00 5.00 40.00 1998

Agricultural Information Needs, Mode, Mechanism and

Information Flow in SAARC Countries

2.00 5.00 50.00 1998

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Title of the Publications

Price in US$ Retail

Price Published

year SAARC

Countries

Other

Countries

in BD

Taka

Bibliography on Technologies for Drought-prone and

Salt-affected AEZ in SAARC Countries

3.00 5.00 100.00 1998

Success Stories on Transfer of Farm Technology in

SAARC Countries

2.00 3.00 50.00 1998

Hybrid and High Yielding Crop Varieties in SAARC

Countries

2.00 3.00 50.00 1998

Innovative Agricultural Technologies in SAARC

Countries

3.00 5.00 75.00 1998

Agricultural Institutions in SAARC Countries: 2nd

Edition

10.00 15.00 440.00 1996

Database on Renewable Energy Resources in SAARC

Countries (1996)

3.00 5.00 132.00 1996

Directory of Agricultural Periodicals of SAARC

Countries: 2nd Revised Edition

10.00 15.00 500.00 1996

Database on Livestock Production Breeding and

Management in SAARC Countries

10.00 15.00 440.00 1996

Improved Equipment for the Farm People of the

SAARC Region

5.00 10.00 220.00 1996

Annotated Bibliography on Potato in the SAARC

Countries

10.00 15.00 440.00 1995

Bibliography on Fish Diseases in the SAARC Countries 3.00 5.00 132.00 1995

Dynamics of Agricultural Biotechnology: SAARC

Bibliographical Database

10.00 15.00 440.00 1995

Postharvest Management in Agriculture SAARC

Bibliographical Database

5.00 8.00 220.00 1995

Agricultural Scientists and Technologists of SAARC

Countries: 1st Edition

20.00 25.00 440.00 1993

Agricultural Institutions in SAARC Countries: 1st

Edition

10.00 15.00 440.00 1993

Annotated Bibliography on Agroforestry in the SAARC

Region

10.00 14.00 440.00 1993

Directory of Agricultural Periodicals of SAARC

Countries (1st edition)

10.00 15.00 500.00 1993

Women in Agriculture, Gender issues in South Asian

Farming

7.50 10.00 352.00 1993

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