(central secretariat) subject: monthly major activities

No.F.1-3/2015-Dir (Tech)-CS Pakistan Agricultural Research Council

(Central Secretariat) ***

16th July 2015 Subject: Monthly Major Activities Report of PARC for June 2015 Chairman’s Activities

1. Chairman, PARC participated in the Election of the Governing Council of the CAPSA and CSAM in Bangkok, Thailand towards the end of May, 2015. The activity was report in the last progress report with remarks that a detailed report will be submitted in the June activity report. The summary of that report is as under: “Director of CAPSA informed all the participants on the importance of the Election of the Governing Council of CAPSA (2015-2018). It was emphasized and recommended that:

a. A concerted effort by the Governing Council members, the Council Chair and the Executive Secretary of ESCAP be made to increase voluntary contributions to sustain CAPSA.

b. Statements of financial commitments to CAPSA should be made by member States during the 71st Commission session in May 2015.

c. A sub-committee comprising of Indonesia, Malaysia and Pakistan under the Chairmanship of Fiji, the current chair of the Council, be formed to look into opportunities to enhance ownership of the Centre by the Council members, and will report back to the Council at its next session.”

2. PARC inaugurated the Mobile Veterinary Clinic at NARC, Islamabad which will serve as a milestone for farmers of the area in which treatment of livestock will be done on modern lines at doorstep of the farmers. The clinic will provide latest information on animal health and reproduction to livestock farmers. Mr. Sikandar Bosan who graced this occasion, appreciated the contributions of PARC scientists for increasing production of agriculture sector including livestock which will contribute a lot in economy of the country.

3. A four-member Lanzhou University delegation led by Director Science and Technology Department Lanzhou University, Dr. Ruijun Long Monday visited NARC on June 28th. DG NARC Dr. Azeem gave a detailed presentation to the visiting delegation on the working and performance of NARC. He briefed the delegation about the research conducted at the center in various crops and other agriculture yields. Registrar, PIASA, Dr. Ehsan also briefed the delegation about the institute wherein Ph.D and M.Phil studies are being offered to the students in various disciplines of agriculture.

Plant Sciences Division (PSD), PARC

Sr.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of the task

Research & Development

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

Evaluation/Screening of National Wheat Germplasm 2014-15 against wheat rusts and epidemiological studies of wheat rusts:

Out of 480 lines/entries of (NWDSN), 134 lines showed resistant (R), one was moderately resistant (MR), 2 lines were moderately resistant to moderately susceptible (MRMS), 56 lines showed moderately susceptible (MS), 239 lines

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were moderately susceptible to susceptible (MSS) and 53 lines were susceptible (S). and in NUWYT comprising 40 lines/entries out of 40 lines 10 lines were resistant (R), one line showed moderately susceptible (MS),27 lines were moderately susceptible to susceptible (MSS) and 2 line showed susceptible (S) reaction.

Tissue Culture: Multiplication of three banana varieties viz. Basrai, W-11 and G-9 is being continued. A total of 200 rooting jars of all varieties were being cultured per week.

Testing Of Commercial Samples: FQSRI: 20 commercial samples of wheat for total plate count, coliform count, E.coli, salmonella, yeast and mold count and result were found under the permissible limits.

Vertebrate Pest Management: Parasites infection levels in some field rats of zoonotic importance in Sindh (Lower Sindh): Four rats were found infected with nematode parasites infection (40%).

1.2 National Sugar Crops & Tropical Horticulture Res. Inst. (NSTHRI), Thatta:

Maintenance of sugarcane germplasm for flowering study: A total of 195 varieties/lines are being maintained at NSTHRI, farm. Poor growth in 31 varieties/lines have been observed, while, the rests 164 sugarcane varieties/lines the growth performance was satisfactory.

Sugarcane nursery development: Fuzz of 39 (22 + 17= 39) sugarcane varieties/genotypes was sown during March and April 2015. Out of which, total 20 genotypes exhibited germination and out of which total 11599 seedlings have been obtained.

Coordinated/Joint Varietal Trials: Joint varietal trials on sugarcane have been conducted at different Sugar mills farms and Sugarcane Research Institutes farms in Sindh. The overall growth of sugarcane varieties in coordinated trial at Makli farm was satisfactory with average 50-65 cm cane height and average 7-8 tillers per plant.

Mungbean+Sugarcane Intercropping Trials: Mungbean was sown as sole and intercropped with sugarcane on 25 farmer’s fields in District Thatta and Sujawal. Yield data of all trials have been collected and compiled.

Plastic Mulching Trial: The crop growth was better in both the plots. Average 106.44 and 92.55 cm plant height, 7.88 and 7.77 tillers/plant has been observed in sugarcane planted in mulched and control plots, respectively.

Banana Tissue Culture: Banana varieties i.e. B-10, Pisang and W-11 are being propagated. Total 1600 Jars of banana were under multiplication/sub-culturing, 1150 Jars were under rooting and 4660 plants were under hardening process.

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

Preparation of vegetables nursery on normal and off season vegetables: Nursery of lettuce, tomato, brinjal, Chinese cabbage etc handed over to the farmers.

Introduction of Kiwi plants as a new fruit under climatic condition of Mansehra: Managed 240 Kiwi plants between the rows of tea plantation. Establishment and growth was satisfactory.

Management of fruits nursery plants:

Peach: 2320 plants Apricot 2245 plants Plum: 2190 plants

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Almond: 1553 plants Walnut: 1500 plants

Fig: 1300 plants

Pomegranate: 2200 plants

Tea processing at NTHRI: Processed 100 kg green tea. 1.4 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan

Fruit 165 Chrysoperla carnea adults emerged for next generation. 1.5 PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab

Fruit Plant Nursery Raising: Plants of peach rootstock, Swat local have attained good size, nitrogenous fertilizer was applied as side dressing for vegetative growth.

Under Plastic tunnel: Twelve entries of indeterminate tomato have been sown vertically under plastic house condition to optimize the planting density and to sort-out suitable hybrids/verities under plastic culture.

1.6 PSD, PARC Food Legume Crops:

NUYTs of 17 candidate lines and 3 check of MUNG and 7 candidate lines and one check of Mashbean were dispatched to 15 and 11 Agricultural Research Stations/Institutes in various ecologies of the country respectively.

Cereal System

A meeting of rice scientists with Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) was organized and conducted at PARC Hqs. Islamabad.

National Coordinator (CS) visited the maize hybrid adaptability trials in Lahore and Sahiwal area for their monitoring and evaluation.

1.7 Olive Program:

Olive Mother Orchard: In some of the genotypes fruit set has occurred and data were recorded accordingly.

02 Coordination Activities


DG (SARC) held a meeting with USAID Monitoring Team at SARC Committee Room to discuss the project “Biological Control of Papaya Mealybug” and briefed them the activities of the Pest Management Research Institute.

2.2 Director(VPCI) attended seminar on “Healthy Oceans, Healthy Planet” to celebrate World Ocean Day on 8th June, 2015 at Arts Auditorium, Karachi University.

2.3 National Sugar Crops & Tropical Horticulture Res. Inst. (NSTHRI), Thatta:

Thatta & visited fuzz nursery and tissue cultured banana plants in the net house.

“How To Increase Sugar Yield” organized by Pakistan Society of Sugar Technologists (PSST) at Indus Hotel Hyderabad on June 15, 2015.

2.4 Meetings of Member, PSD:

32nd Meeting of Tech. Advisory Committee of BoD Of ALP.

Meeting of Rice Scientist (Rice Exporter Association) REAP.

Meeting on SAFRON cultivation.

Meeting on Rice situation. 2.5 PSD, PARC

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Olive Program:

Thirteen thousand (13000) imported olive plants (FATA share) under commercial project were collected from NARC, Islamabad and handed over to the concerned officer.

03

Dissemination of research results/ new technologies


Field surveys were conducted to record the population density of Papaya Mealybug, (Paracoccus marginatus) on Papaya and other host plants around Karachi.

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

Organized Field day on “Sugarcane” at Faran Sugar Mill, Shaikh Bhirkio in collaboration with Pak China Project (sugarcane component)

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

Team of PTV visited NTHRI. Recorded interview regarding tea, fruits, vegetables, medicinal plants and on -going activities of institute

Team of Kay-2 TV visited NTHRI. Recorded interview regarding tea cultivation in Pakistan, fruits, vegetable, medicinal plants and on -going activities of institute

3.4 PSD, PARC

Seminar small commercial farmer of Pakistan implication for productivity and growth IFPRI/USDA PSSP (Pak Strategy support program) on 17-06-2015, PARC.

Natural Resources Division, PARC

S.#. Official Task / Activity

Status of Task

1. Research & Development

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

The PSDP project on up-gradation of AZRI to AZRC successfully completed its bench marks with purchase of land at Tank & Wana (SWA) completed in collaboration with respective administrations. 07 acre land is purchased in Tank on main Tank-D.I. Khan road and 05 acre land is purchased in Wana on main Wana-Angoor Ada road. Site selection also completed at Lakki-Marwat in consultation with district management.

Tender for purchase of office/field equipment, furniture were opened and partial supply order issued in purchase of office equipment & furniture.

Mungbean advance varietal trail and breeding material comprising plant to row progeny lines of mungbean and mashbean are at 2nd flush of flowering and pod formation. Irrigation and spray of insecticides (Karatay + Confidor) was applied for control of chewing and sucking types of insects. Overall condition of crop is excellent.

Three varieties of Mungbean i.e. Dera Mung, Inqalab Mung and Sona Mung (Candidate line) have been sown on an area of seven acres for quality seed production and germination is excellent.

Maize crop has been sown on an area of 10 acres for income generation.

Janter has been planted in experimental block for soil health improvement.

To determine an effective and economical technique of green manuring of

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dhancha for the improvement of soil condition an experiment has been conducted in which dhancha will be incorporated in soil at different stages and soil health will be analyzed before and after the conduct of trail.

Data of Chickpea Kabuli & Desi and lentil trials have been sent to concerned quarters after compilation.

Irrigation was applied to date palm orchards and fruit size is increasing. Up till now no attack of insects has been observed.

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

Central pivot Irrigation system & drip irrigation system are periodically tested.

The concrete pipe & PCPS lining along-with a water tank and fish pond at Gara Akhundzada is completed.

GIS mapping of the area and potential of ground water is also under study with collaboration of CAEWRI, NARC, Islamabad.

Wheat grown under artesian wells at 2 locations in Daraban (ALP project) was harvested and data recorded as 12 bags (100kg each) per acres is the yield taken. The intervention aims at improving the quality of seed being used by the farmers and to propagate the certified seed in the artesian irrigated ecology of the area.

The water coming out of reservoir is directly applied to the fields and soil reclamation is under process by addition of biological output.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur

National Uniform yield trial on Groundnut sowing has been done: The land preparation for Mungbean and Mash Adaptation Trials 2015 has been done at Bahawalpur farm.

Mashbean Adaptation Trial -2015. All the medicinal crops trials have been threshed out after data recording and being analyzed for report writing.

The cotton crop is being maintained accordingly. Different agronomic management practices like Thinning, weed eradication and hoeing process is under progress at Bahawalpur farm. Irrigation has been applied during this month.

The sowing of different species Acacia plants has been done. The shifting of Ber, kiker and Parkensonia plants from nursery beds has been completed at AZRI, Bahawalpur Farm.

Green sheet for Arid Horticultural nursery has been replaced to protect different plants in nursery which is damaged during thunderstorm.

Newly established Horticultural crops at Bahawalpur farm are being maintained, hoeing and weed eradication has been carried out. Farm Yard Manure, irrigation and fertilizer have been applied.

Range grasses fields on the sprouting well after rain shower during current month at Bahawalpur farm.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

Evaluation and screening of various trees, grasses and herbs/shrubs for their biomass production and adaptability in Thar desert: All range trees, grasses, herbs and shrubs are at better condition. Necessary weeding, gap filling and irrigation have been continued. Study on grasses germination in two different methods i.e through seed and second is through grass nodes, has

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been continued. Some trees like Kandi and Babur completed fruiting and fruits are matured. Some grasses seeds are matured and collected. Two rainfall were recorded. Other regular practices are going in progress.

To develop nursery of conocorpus (English) and Thar trees on commercial basis: The sapling of Acacia nilotica (1000 plants), Zizyphus (100 plants), Albizia lebek (400 plants), Phog stem cutting (Calligonus polygonides) (500 plants), Rohero (500 pants), Acacia Parkinsonia (500 plants), Iple Iple (1000 plants), irani babur (500), Murari (50), China Rose (100) and Moringa (1000 plants), are developed at MARVI Nursery. 3000 new cuttings of conocorpus are planted for propagation. Some agro forestry plants were shifted to the field. Further more 2000 Cacer (kantala) plants are planted for their further propagation.

National Uniform Groundnut Yield Trials 2015: National uniform groundnut yield trial was planted on 03-04-2015 at AZRI field. 11 entries (08 NUYT, 1 Tigori, 1 China and 1local) having plot size of 7.2 m2 with three replications in RCBD design. Flowering is completed and peg formation is started in many entries. Two irrigations were applied and two weeding were carried out.

Cultivation of Groundnuts in arid condition at Umerkot: Two acre of groundnuts one acre variety “Tigori” and one acre of “China” variety have been cultivated at AZRI Umerkot. Two rainfall were showered. Weeding was also carried out. The crop is at flowering and nodule formation stage.

Cultivation of cluster bean under arid condition at Umerkot: 5 acre cluster bean Indian variety has been cultivated at AZRI Farm Umerkot. Two irrigations were applied. Weeding was also carried out. The crop was at fruiting stage. Furthermore 5 acre cluster bean was planted.

Use of Alternative Energy Sources for Pumping Water in Agriculture: Bio-gas plant was inoperative condition with daily Gas production of 6-7 m3. Data was recorded on regular basis. Gas is used for pumping water for irrigation to grafted ber under 3 acres of drip of irrigation system. The mean discharge of the DC pump running with solar power was 2.0 liters / sec, while the discharge of AC pump with biogas energy at 2.8 liters/sec. was recorded.

Cultivation of grafted ber under drip irrigation system operated by Biogas, Wind and Solar pumping system: The data has been recorded on weekly basis to achieve the best water use efficiency. Monitoring and maintenance are continued. Internal paths weeds were cleaned. Irrigation was applied as per plant requirement on daily basis. The monthly data indicated that average plant height recorded was 211 cm, girth 31.7 cm and plant canopy at 245 cm respectively.

Introduction and testing of horticultural fruit plants in arid & semi arid condition at AZRI & farmers field: The growth of Mulberry, Chiku and Falsa plants is going excellent. After pruning, grafted ber sprouted heavily, in chiku plants fruit formation and ripening is continued. The grafted ber are also introduced at two farmers in arid region of Thar through the collaboration of Research and Development Foundation (RDF) and Sindh Agriculture Development Association (SADA) NGO’s.

Introduction of Grape and vegetable varieties at AZRI Farm in kitchen gardening: Forty plants of grapes varieties are planted after changing of soil

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for demonstration to farmers, the survival rate of plants are 70%. Hybrid bitter guard, sponge guard and chilli were also intercropped under a demo drip irrigation system. The vegetables are at fruiting stage.

Cultivation of Cluster bean on rain fed condition: 40 acre of Cluster bean has been cultivated on rain fed at AZRI farm area.

Protected cultivation of vegetables (AVRDC Project): The onion bulbs cultivated for seed under fresh vegetable value chain at Mian Muhammad Saleem Farm and Abdul Aziz Solangi Farm at Kunri. Crop was harvested Further more bitter gourd trial with 08 varieties and lady finger cultivated at Junejo Farm Umerkot, bitter gourd is at flowering and fruiting stage, some lady finger plants are selected for seed purpose. One day national seminar on “Onion seed quality production” was held at AZRI Umerkot Provincial Minister Syed Ali Maradan Shan was the chief guest.

Plantation of fruit crops at AZRI Umerkot: The fruit plants nursery received by HRI NARC Islamabad was planted at AZRI Umerkot. The detail of plantation of these fruits are Apricot 33 plants, Fig 33, Lemon 33, Guava 33, Olive four varieties 50 plants each, Plum 46 and Pomegranate 184 plants were cultivated. Due to heat wave other were dried only guava and olive plants are survived under arid condition of Umerkot.

Chilli Germ plasm: 102 lines were collected from AVRDC and PGRI Islamabad. From which 56 lines were germinated and after transplantation due to harsh climatic conditions 32 lines survived and started vegetative stage. Two trials is being carried out at Mian Muhammad Saleem Farm.

Performance of Solar desalination unit: The average data recorded during the report period discharge of un-treated water, treated water and drain water per panel were recorded 22,1.75 and 20 lit/day respectively. Further more volume of treated water per panel was recorded at 14 lit/day

Performance of Windmill: The average discharge of windmill installed at AZRI Umerkot was 10 lit/minute at wind velocity of 1.35 to 3.65 m/second.

Development of protocols for toxic free cultivation of vegetable in arid and semi arid regions utilizing efficient water resources: The bio fertilizer plant shifted has made functional. Two irrigations were applied to Date palm orchard. New Solar pumping system has been installed for irrigation to grafted ber orchard. The gap filling of grafted ber was also completed. Research data showed that plant height, girth and canopy were recorded 101, 06 and 104 cm respectively and irrigation applied on daily basis. Cluster bean has been planted as intercrop.

Rehabilitation of degrade range land through intervention and community participation: The main theme of project is to develop agro-forestry model of desert flora in collaboration with local community participation under the project an area of 04 acres has been planted as agro-forestry at AZRI Farm gap filling was done in mortality pits. Three sites has been selected and farmers registration have completed 25 farmers registered at each locations. Further more 3200 plants of various agro-forestry plant spp. are planted in two selected villages

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit Cereal Section

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Wheat

ICARDA/CIMMYT Wheat Improvement Program.(ICWIP)

CWANA 14th Elite Spring Bread Wheat Yield Trial (CWANA 14th ESBWYT), 24 entries with two replications were sown at MARC, Juglote for assessment of yield performance under the climatic condition of Gilgit Baltistan in which date of heading (DOH), date of maturity (DOM) and plant height data were recorded during the reported month.

18th INTERNATIONAL WINTER WHEAT YIELD TRIAL FOR IRRIGATED AREAS 18TH iwwyt-ir, 2014-2015.During April, 40 entries with two replications were carried out for their performance under climatic situation of Juglote, GB and in which same data of date of heading (DOH), date of maturity (DOM) and plant height data were collected.

ICARDA/CIMMYT Wheat Improvement Program. In 14th Spring Bread Wheat Observation Nursery (CWANA 14th SBW-ON) 2013 -114, there are total of 150 entries as well as one local check were conducted at MARC Juglote, GB where same data of DOH, DOM and plant height were recorded.

During the reported month, National Uniform Wheat Yield Trial (NUWYT), 40 entries with two replications were sown at MARC. Juglote was managed. 33 improved wheat varieties/advance lines collected from NARC in which heading, maturity and plant height data was collected and harvested at MARC.

11 wheat enhanced varieties which were collected from different Research Institutes were sown with three replications at MARC, in which same data were recorded during the reported month.

Seed production of improved wheat varieties i.e. NARC-2011, Chakwal-50, Faisalabad-2008 and NARC-2009 were sown for seed production was harvested during the reported month.

Fodder Section

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

Shaftal was sown in three acres for soil improvement as well as for livestock feeding was harvested during the month of June.

Fruit Section

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

Deciduous fruit plants were maintained during the reported month. Vegetable section

Different research trials of transplanting of summer vegetable s were done at MARC, Juglote GB in the month of June.

Cultivation of pistachio seeds on different research trials were done at MARC, for further propagation and multiplication during the reported month.

Shifting of wild pistachio rootstocks were done at MARC, Juglote (Sai) from Quetta Baluchistan

Natural Resource Research Program

12 soil samples were analyzed for PH, EC, N-NO3, and P & K.

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Leaf samples prepared for analysis of various tests. Project proposal.

Revised the work plan for the newly established Natural Resources Research Program Fisheries (Trout)

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

Breeding of trout activities is ended.

Management & cleaning of raceways is in progress with in ten to fifteen days interval.

Management of brood stock.

Data regarding growth increment is being collected for statistical analysis.

About 40,000 initial fry have started initial feeding. Uptill now they are in good health during the current month

Livestock

During the month, no local goats was crossed with Betal Bucks whereas 37 local cows were directly crossed with Jersey and Frisian breeding bull Juglote, 4 of each local cows were crossed in MARS Chilas, Goner farm and MARS Skardu and 7 cow were treated by artificial assimilations

2 Coordinator Activities

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

Pod formation has been started in mungbean multi-location yield trail, contributed by NIFA, Peshawar. Irrigation and insecticide spray were applied as per requirement.

Harvesting and threshing of trials contributed by CIMMYT and ICARDA, i.e. 36th International Durum Yield Trial Mediterranean Dry land, 22nd Semi-arid wheat yield trial, 32nd Semi-arid wheat screening nursery and 14th Dry land, has been completed and data compilation is under process.

Data of Chickpea and Lentil F3 nurseries contributed by ICARDA, has been compiled and results have been conveyed to concerned quarter.

Sunflower sown on 19 acres for hybrid seed production in coordination with National oilseed programme, CSI has been harvested and threshed.

One variety of Soyabean sown in collaboration with National oilseed programme, CSI, is at early pod formation stage, while the other one is still growing vegetative but no flowering has been observed till now. Irrigation and insecticide were applied during the month.

Flowering and fruit formation is under process in Biter-gourd trial contributed by AVRDC comprising 8 entries including two local checks.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) Bahawalpur

The Agro-met data (temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind velocity and evaporation) have been recorded on daily basis from observatory unit of AZRI, Bahawalpur.


Coordination with local progressive farmers and NGO’s like RDF, SOFT, SADA, LAAR Humanitarian Development Foundation, Thar Deep, SCOPE, Basic- DF, MDF and provincial Agriculture Department is continued. One orchard of various fruit species are planted at Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur. Further more one research station of AZRI, PARC Umerkot has been established.

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit.

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

During the reported month, farmer’s field day was arranged in which Sectary Agriculture, Directors of Research, Extensions, Fisheries and Livestock of Gilgit-Baltistan visited to MARC, Juglote.

During June, visit to different farmer’s field to which seeds of wheat different varieties was distributed.

3 Dissemination of research results new technologies


Gypsum was applied @ 500 kg ha-1 at flowering stage of ground nut outreach trial planted at farmer’s field (Rehman-Abad) consisting of five promising cultivars collected from NARC and BARI, Chakwal. Overall growth of the crop is good

Testing and periodic checking of the performance of Bio-gas system was carried out. Gas production is good in summer & operating the engine for 8 hours

Farmers live questions were answered AZRI Focal person through Pakistan broadcasting corporation, D.I.Khan under native radio program “Wasdian Jhokan” on weekly basis

Dr. Muhammad Mansoor, PSO participated as an expert in radio talk on “Insect pest control in mungbean

Agro-meteorological data were recorded from AZRI observatory unit. Maximum (44 0C) and minimum temperature (21 0C) was recorded on 19-06-2015 and 13-06-2015 respectively. Windblown @ 7.8 km / hour on 14-06-2015. 16.5 mm rainfall occurred during the month under report.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur

The Agro-met data (temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind velocity and evaporation) have been recorded on daily basis from observatory unit of AZRI, Bahawalpur.

Bio Gas unit performance: In the well of biogas digester, the fresh dung material is being added on weekly basis.

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

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

The irrigation for initial seed bed preparation for the sowing of kharif crops has been carried out at Cholistan farm


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

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit

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

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4 Capacity building & Training / Visits


AVRDC coordinator vegetable and visited AZRI in connection with AVRDC bitter gourd trial and future prospects in D.I. Khan

Program leader oilseed, NARC also visited AZRI in connection with sunflower hybrid seed production.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI), Bahawalpur.

Mr. Shoukat Hussain, Incharge Cotton Research Station, Bahawalpur visited the office of the Director, AZRI, Bahawalpur and discussed about the present situation of Cotton crops with Director and senior scientists of the Institute.

Director, AZRI, Bahawalpur visited the Bahulddin Zakrya University Multan and discussed some important issues with Dr. Nazim Hussain Labar, Professor Agronomy Department Agri. College BZU, Multan.


One day national seminar on “Onion seed quality production” was organized at AZRI Umerkot under AVRDC – AIP Project on 10-06-2015, Provincial Minster for Population Welfare Syed Ali Mardan Shah was the chief guest.

ANIMAL SCIENCES DIVISION, PARC

Activity Description

1. Research and Development (Core research activities undertaken)

Animal Health Program:

Under PPR ALP project, a local isolate of PPR virus (PAK-Fjg-07/NARC4) from AHP repository is being attenuated for the development of PPR vaccine by serial passages on Vero cells. During current month 44 serial passages have been completed.

RT-PCR for PPR was optimized using newly designed N gene primers of PPR virus and whole Nucleoprotein N gene of PPR consisting of 1578 nucleotides was successfully amplified.

Two PPRV suspected swab samples collected from camels in an outbreak in Thar, Sindh were inoculated onto Vero cells for PPR virus isolation.

A PPR virus was recovered in cell culture from lymph node sample collected from an outbreak of PPR in Faisalabad district.

Primary culture of goat kidney cells was conducted using 5-6 months old goat kidneys collected from Rawalpindi slaughter house for isolation of PPR virus.

Serotype specific primers for Loop mediated isothermal amplification assay were reconstituted and the assay was performed with serotype O primers for molecular detection of FMD virus.

Repository of different local isolates of PPR and FMD viruses are being maintained by the program. Besides, regular maintenance and sub-culturing of Vero and LFBK cell line were performed.

A post-mortem of cattle was performed at LRS, ASI.

Animal Nutrition Program:

ALP project “Generation of reference values on amino acid availability in local feedstuffs for poultry and capacity building at NARC/PIASA” is

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in progress.Under this project, laboratory renovations have been completed. Previously, software was installed in the analyzer computer for handling the machine and initial checkups were performed. The work order for equipment purchase has been issues after completion of tender process. The purchase of main chemicals through tender is in progress.

A project on isolation and characterization of local Lactobacillus isolates under TWG is in progress. Of the 80 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated so far, 21 are being further studied for suitability as probiotic cultures. The DNA extracted from 10 LAB was sent for partial sequencing the results of which were received. Results indicated that all the isolates were lactobacilli. The DNA of further 11 isolates will be sent for sequencing in July.

PC-1 of RADP subproject entitled “Monitoring and surveillance of feed and feed ingredients for Salmonella ssp. contaminations in relation to better livestock production” has been prepared and submitted for funding.

PC-1 of RADP subproject entitled “Evaluation of Maize Stoves and Cobs as Roughage Sources of Total mixed Ration for Fatteningof Buffalo or Cattle Calves ”has been prepared and submitted for funding.

Animal Product Improvement Program:

At Dairy and Meat Technology Section (DMTS) of the APIP, DNA extraction was done from selected strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckiissp. bulgaricus. The extracted DNA was then subjected to PCR reaction using genus specific primers. Out of 7 samples, 3 strains gave positive indication as shown by a visible band on 1% agarose gel.

Under the starter culture rotation scheme at DMT section of APIP, two strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckiissp. bulgaricus (named as N-1 and N-11) and two strains of Streptococcus thermophilus (named as AD-1b and LD-2) were revived and grown in whey based medium to form yogurt starter culture. The culture was then used to prepare yogurt for sale at PATCO sale point.

At the Poultry and Wildlife (PW) section, RADP funded project “Establishment of Ostrich Breeding Facility at NARC, Islamabad” is in progress. Nine ostrich birds in 3 trios are purchased last month have started egg production. The purchase of feed ingredients has been completed.

At the PW section, the newly approved ALP funded project “Genetic improvement of selected indigenous Naked Neck by crossing with exotic poultry breeds of Rhodes Island Red and Black Australop” is in progress.

The Small Ruminant Research (SRR) section of the APIP prepared a new project PC-1 entitled “National Project for the Genetic Improvement of Sheep breeds and Wool Value Addition/chain in Pakistan” for funding from Public Sector Development Program (PSDP).

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The SRR section of the APIP conducted the care and management and activities related to land preparation and fodder growing of Small Ruminant Flock at NARC. The PPR vaccination of all the existing and newly purchased goat flock was conducted with the technical cooperation of FAO.

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

The PSF project “Investigations on Fertility-Related Biomarkers in Buffalo Semen to reduce male-factor losses (MFLs)”, has been completed. Final Technical and Financial reports are ready for submission to concerned quarters.

Under the ALP project at ARGP “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination”, visit ofChakswari area of Mirpurwas conducted for heat induction trial in buffaloes.

Under ALP coordinated project at ARGP entitled “Genetic improvement of selected indigenous naked neck by crossing with exotic poultry breeds of Rhode Island Red and Black Australorp” release has been received by NARC accounts. Tender for purchase of equipment is in process. The Research Fellow has been recruited. Out of 200 eggs of naked egg 70 chicks were hatched and are being reared.

All of the animals, equipment and chemicals have been procured under RADP sub-project at ARGP entitled “Development of ONBS of Nili buffalo and Sahiwal cattle at NARC”.

A new RADP sub-project on “Cryoconservation of Beetal buck spermatozoa and introduction of artificial insemination in Beetal goats” (Rs. 8.390 million) was submitted.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Research Program:

For establishment of catfishIctaluruspunctatus hatchery at NARC, catfish seed and brooders are being reared in earthen ponds with 30% CP fish feed. Pairing of catfish brooders for breeding have been done in five ponds.

Breeding of ornamental fish i.e Guppies and mollies have been successfully achieved.

Water quality of experimental ponds was monitored on weekly basis.

Livestock Research Station:

The LRS is maintaining a livestock herd of 125large ruminants and also a rabbitory. In the month of June, one animal was sold, 3 calves and 5 leverets were born. Fodder was sown on 18 acres of land.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

A total of 1564 referraland surveillance samples were received and processed for viral, bacterial and molecular diagnosis. In this regard 344 molecular diagnosis reactions (PCR, QRT-PCR, RT-PCR &

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sequencing) and 1594 serological reactions including HI, ELISA, PAT, were carried out for major poultry pathogens along with bacteriological evaluation of 27 samples. 24 postmortems were conducted. Overall 26 poultry pathogens were isolated and sub typed as 08 H9 AIVs and 05 NDV, 7 AAV along with 6 bacteriological isolations. Other poultry pathogens including IBV (3), 2 SP, 2 MG, 1 Astrovirus, were also detected from suspected samples.

Propagated avian adenovirus 4 and 8 in whole embryo fibroblast primary cell culture. Purification of avian adenovirus 4 in whole embryo fibroblast primary cell culture using beta neutralization method is going on.

Experiment regarding Immunosuppression agent affects in Adeno positive birds(10 birds trial) has been completed.

Determination of Tissue tropism against IBV (60 birds trial) is in process.

Under the RADP H7N9 project, sampling has been done from different bird species from different areas of RWP and ICT. No seroconversionwas observed against H7N9 and no virus has been isolated. HI and ELISA procedures have been standardized using local reagents.

Under ALP project for antigen preparation, AIV H9N2 and NDV have been propagated through in-ovo inoculation. Experiment regarding HIS development against H9N2 has been completed.

Under RADP,H9N2 samples were collected from non-vaccinated poultry 2 H9N2 viruses were isolated. Seroconversion was observed in sera from non-vaccinated poultry. Sequencing has been started and MG and NS genes of 2 isolates has been sequenced. Cartography experiment has been completed.

Under FELTP project, 59 samples were received and screened for AIV. Seroconversion was observed against AIV H9N2 while no seroconversion was observed against HPAI.

2 Coordination activities

Animal Health Program:

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

Animal Product Improvement Program:

The SRR section of the APIP is engaged under assignments and activities related to the newly started PATCO Goat Project for procuring and fattening of male goats at NARC.In this regard, the SSO, APIP along-with Stock Superviser, APIP conducted a six day (June 14 to 19, 2015) tour of Muzaffargarh and Rahim Yar Khan districts for the purchase of goats for fattening and sale at the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha under the PATCO Goat Project. The SSO, APIP along-with other staff members also visited GaliJehangir, Fatah Jang, Attock for the purchase of goats under the PATCO Goat Project on June 27, 2015..

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

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

Coordination activity for ALP project “Genetic improvement of selected indigenous naked neck by crossing with exotic poultry breeds of Rhode Island Red and Black Australorp” was performed.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

A one day workshop was attended at Abbottabad on Poultry Disease Surveillance organized by ALP Project L&DD KPK component and delivered 2 lectures.

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

Dissemination of Research Products:

Animal Health scientists organized an inaugural ceremony of PARC Mobile Veterinary Clinic at NARC auditorium. The Federal Minister of National Food Security and Research, Chairman PARC, Member Animal Sciences, PARC and NARC scientists and farmers attended the ceremony.

The ANP sold 1827 bags of PARC cattle feed, 19urea molasses blocks, and 13kg milk booster to farmers under PATCO.

The DMT section of the APIP processed19 batches of milk (12 L each) for preparation of plain yoghurt and white cheese sale at PATCO sale point.

The PW section of the APIP sold culled birds, High Egg Producing Crossbred Rural Chicks, and eggs under PATCO.

The LRS sold 7500 L of milk and 1700 bales of silage in collaboration with PATCO.

Trainings:

One scientist from ANP attended 3 days training, National Training for CDM (Clean Development Mechanism) Assessment for PC-I of Public Sector Projects, organized by Ministry of Climate Change, Islamabad, Pakistan.

Publications:

The ANP published a paper, “Mycotoxin cocktail in the samples of oilseed cake from early maturing cotton varieties associated with cattle feeding problems” in the journal Toxinsissue 7 (6).

4 Training imparted A scientist from AHP imparted training to veterinarians and para-veterinary staff from Gilgit-Baltistan regarding brucellosis.

One scientist of ANP delivered series of training seminars from 15 to 18 June, 2015 on livestock nutrition/management to farmers under the project “Capacity Building of Youth in Agricultural Entrepreneur for PMYBLP” at Veterinary Hospital, JalalpurPirwala, Multan.

Four courses of PIASA are being taught at various ASI programs.

Training of students:

In ANP, one M.Phil student from PIASA is conducting research work.

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In DMT section of the APIP, two M.Phil students of the Hazara University and 2 students from Fatima Jinnah Women University are doing research work on yoghurt and milk.

At ARGP, research work of 07 PhD and 04 M. Phil students is being supervised.

At AHP, two M. Phil students, one from PIASA-NARC and one from QAU-Islamabad completed their research work on comparative sensitivity of various cell lines used for isolation of FMD virus and Vaccine matching studies using FMD field isolates.

In NRLPD, four PIASA students are conducting their M.Phil research. Training and demonstration to visiting farmers:

The ANP guided 6 farmers on feeding and management of livestock and poultry.

In AFRP, 50 fish farmers from Mangla were briefed on the fish culture system.

In SRR section of the APIP, 2 visiting farmers were briefed on various aspects of small ruminant production.

At PW section of the APIP, 1 farmer was given guidance on various aspects of poultry farming.

At LRS, 20 progressive farmers were briefed on various livestock management strategies.

Social Sciences Division

S. # Official Task/ Activity

Status of Task

1. Research and Development Activities

Social Sciences Division

Project completion report reviewed/evaluated and comments extended on the Final Technical Progress Report of ALP Project “Investigation into the effectiveness of the Concept of Farmer’s Field School (FES) in Agriculture development in Districts Malakand, Swat and Charsada” Project Proposal entitled “Dissemination of PARC Research Results and Extension Activities through Print and Electronic Media” Detailed comments extended on the proposal. Finalize the thesis of PIASA student entitled “Economics and Marketing of Rose Flowers in Pakistan: A Case Study of Islamabad and Rawalpindi District”.

Comments of technical division of RADP sub project entitled “Demand and Supply Estimates and Projections for Meat in Pakistan” have been incorporated and finalized the project for submission to RADP.

Entered the Data from Pakistan Census of Agriculture Province Report i.e. Punjab, Sindh and KPK, 1972.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), NARC

Reviewed the literature to prepare a Research study, entitled ‘Perception of Resilience and Vulnerability in the Poor communities due to climate change shock and how it is being coped with adaptive

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strategies adopted by men and women.’

Data entry continued for project entitled “Post Harvest Management and Value Addition of Fruits in Production Catchments of SAARC Countries (Pakistan Component)”.

Data entry for Z.T drill and laser leveling technologies were completed for the project titled “Economics of Using Alternative Energy Sources and Adoption of Energy Saving Practices by the Farmers under Current Energy Crisis in Pakistan”

Data collection in KPK and Sindh provinces was performed for the project titled “Economics of Using Alternative Energy Sources and Adoption of Energy Saving Practices by the Farmers under Current Energy Crisis in Pakistan”.

Submitted the report of the professional training on “Soil Fertility and Crop Yield Improvement Techniques” under Soil fertility and Soil Health Project, organized by SAWCRI with collaboration of ICARDA and USDA at Chakwal, dated 21th-22th April, 2015.

Developed a proposal on Impact assessment of farmer’s field school approach of Gilgit Baltistan.

Edited the FGD’s reports regarding the project titled “Role of Circular Migration in Building Household Level Adaptive Capacity and Community Resilience to Environmental and Socio-Economic Changes in Mountainous Areas”.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Tarnab

The comments received from Directorate of Agricultural Research FATA on research study entitled “Onion Assessment Survey in Mohmand Agency” incorporated and the report resubmitted to Directorate of Agricultural Research FATA.

“Cell Phone Technology as a Source of Agricultural Knowledge: A Farmers Perception (A Case Study of Mardan District)”. The questionnaire pretested in the field and modified the questionnaire. The research study shifted to next year annual plan 2015-16.

Irrigation Water for Sustainable Food Production and Rural Development: A Case Study of Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC) in District D.I.Khan, Pakistan” Datacollection was completed and data cleaning continued.

SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar in coordination with SSRI, NARC Islamabad conducted survey in D.I.K District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for the ALP Research Project entitled “Economics of using Alternative Energy Sources and Adoption of energy Saving Practices by the Farmers under Current Energy Crisis in Pakistan”for data collection.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Faisalabad

Report of study entitled ‘’Factors Affecting Mung bean Acreage and Production in Low Intensity Zone of Punjab’’ was completed

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Report writing of the study ‘’Economic Feasibility and Prospects of Strawberry Spread in Central Punjab’’ completed.

Write up of the study entitled ‘Analysis of the study Price Spread of Essential Agricultural Food Commodities at Different Levels of Marketing’’ was completed

Assessment of Recommended Production Technologies Adopted by Cotton Growers in Punjab is concluded.

Research Project proposal “Food Security Strategies of Marginal Farmers in the Punjab” submitted to RADP.

Research Project proposal “Position of Agriculture in Livelihood Strategies of Rural Youth in Punjab” submitted to RADP.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Tandojam

Draft report of the study “Profitability of Agriculture in Different Cropping Systems in Sindh’’ completed Data collection for the study ‘’Identifying the role of Livestock in farming food security and livelihood support in marginal and small sized farming Household in Sindh’’ has been finalized.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), AJK

A draft report was developed on import and export scenario of Pakistan’s agriculture for the background study for Vision 2050.

Data for the study “An analysis of Walnut Value Chain in AJK” was collected from Leepa and Neelum valleys during this month.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Quetta

Data editing and entry for the study “Banana production and marketing constraints in Labella district”continued.

Survey study entitled “Tobacco (chewing) production in Highland Balochistan” has completed in Pishin area. interviewing 25 farmers, 3 grind millers and 2 storage owners.

2. Coordination Activities

Coordinated with Mr. Farid Ahmed, M&E Expert ICIMOD, Nepal on the implementation of the M&E framework in Executive Committee Room, NARC on June 11, 2015 at 10:30 a.m.

Presented progress in review meeting of ASLP-II Social Project “Social Research to Foster Effective Collaboration and Strengthen Pro-Poor Value Chains, held in Canberra, Australia on 16 to 24 June, 2015

Presented baseline survey experience in inception workshop held under SDF, Project Entitled “Post Harvest Management and Value Addition of Fruits in Production Catchments of SAARC Countries (Pakistan Component)” held in Sukkur on June 8, 2015

Director and PSO from Faisalabad, attended the Production Plan meeting of wheat at WRI, Faisalabad dated 12-06-2015.

PSO of SSRI Faisalabad, attended the Production Plan of Gram and Lentil at PRI, Faisalabad dated 24-06-215.

PSO from Faisalabad, attended meeting of production plan of vegetables at VRI, Faisalabad for year 2015-16 dated 30-06-2015.

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Annual Planning and Review meeting Presentation prepared for the ICARDA project entitled “Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation Improvement in Pakistan: Demonstrating and Disseminating the Best Practices and Technologies to Help Rural Farmers”

A meeting was held with Dy. Director, Agriculture Extension & Plant protection of District Pishin about tobacco growers area, processers’ location

3. Dissemination of Research Results New Techniques (

The report writing is in progress of the professional training on “Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation Technology Improvements in Pakistan, organized by CAEWRI with collaboration of ICARDA and USDA at Fatehjang Field Station, dated 12th -14th May, 2015.

Incorporated the comments of local and foreign referees in the research paper entitled “Economics of Millet Production of Major Dairy Buffalo Breeds by Agro Ecological Zones in Pakistan.

Research paper entitled “Assessment of the Professional Training Course under Watershed Project at Fatehjang Field Station, Punjab-Pakistan” submitted for publication at Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Research (PJAR).

Participate in the meeting for the constitution of a committee for advocacy and projection of all achievements of NARC and PARC’s allied research outstations, dated June 22nd, 2015.

Paper entitled “Economics of Red Meat Production in Punjab” Published in PJAR Vol.28 No.1 2015.

Paper entitled “Women Cotton Pickers Perception about Health Hazards due to Pesticides use in Irrigated Punjab” Published in PJAR Vol.28 No.1 2015.

4. Training Imparted 16 students from Institute of Agri. & Resource Economics and Institute of Agri. Business & Marketing of UAF at SSRI, Faisalabad completed their internship period

Agricultural Engineering Division)

S# Official Task/Activity Status of Task

1. Research & Development Activities

Conducted the inception workshop on Post harvest management and value addition of fruits in production catchments. About fifty date palm and banana growers participated in this workshop. Mr. Abdul Majeed Nizamani chaired the inaugural as well as technical sessions of this workshop.

During the technical session, presentation was made on solar date drying technologies. Three other presentations were also made by other speakers.

Separate group discussion was arranged on Date post harvest processing technologies, banana value addition technologies,

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and establishment of marketing linkage for the processed products. After in depth discussion, the following recommendations were proposed by each group.

Date Post Harvest Processing Following dryers may be introduced/ demonstrated in Khairpur/ Sukkar:

a) Solar-cum-gas fired date dryer b) Solar tunnel dryer c) Small scale solar dryers having loading capacity of 15-20 kg

/ batch d) Biomass fired date dryer

Following date processing machinery may be imported and then indigenized in the country for its introducing and commercialization:

a) Small scale date washer and dryer b) Date pitted machinery c) Date power making machinery d) Date paste making machinery e) Packaging material similar to being used by Middle-East

countries for date packaging maybe developed and introduced.

Banana Value Addition The group agreed to introduce banana value addition

technologies. They stressed to establish small scale value addition facilities

for: o Banana chips o Banana powder o Banana fig

They also proposed to arrange training related to these value addition technologies and food safety standards.

They also proposed to establish banana growers/ processors’ society that may further work on improvement of this crop and its value added products.

Establishment of Marketing linkages Study the present marketing mechanism of dates. Develop marketing linkages for value added products. Explore the possibility of export market for dates. Train manpower on the use and maintenance of date

processing and banana value addition products. In a nut shell, this workshop was very much successful. Initiated the review/ editing of the proceedings of the

Inception Workshop on Post Harvest Management and Value Addition in Production Catchment of SAARC Countries.

Worked on preparation of tender documents for purchase of solar-cum-gas fired dryers and solar tunnel dryers under SDF project.

Prepared Annual Work Plan 2015-16.

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A lawn type wood chipper shredder was got manufactured from M/s Liaqat Engineering Works, Lehterar Road, Khanna Dak, Islamabad.

Prepared feasibility report of Tested Turkish made oil press installed at private premises in Muridke, Lahore for canola hybrid seed. The report was submitted to Oilseeds Program, NARC.

A small scale solar dryer was designed and experimental work carried out for drying of tomato, onion and apricot.

Demonstrated the performance of a PTO Driven Disk Plow at Daska, Sialkot and NARC, Islamabad.

Repair of solar dryers at Khaipur, Sindh is in progress. Work on the development of Sisal Combing machine is

underway. Designed and development of Mango Nut Sheller machine at

ABEI prototype workshop is underway. Analysis of baseline survey about Date & Banana value addition

under SAARC Development Fund Project is underway.

i) Coordinated Activities LIA’s comments/recommendations were provided on the final bid evaluation-PHT Bhutan.

LIA’s comments/recommendations were provided on the list of instruments to be purchased by IA Bangladesh under SDF funded project.

Conveyed the meeting of the organizing Committee of inception workshop on Post Harvest Management and value addition of fruits in production catchments in SAARC countries (Pakistan Component) and directed the organizing team to remind the growers/ processors of Date and Banana through telephone calls to ensure their participation.

Areas of co-operation in Agricultural Engineering with Australia were identified and forwarded to TSO to Chairman, PARC. Pakistan needed support in the following areas: a) Machinery for pre-cooling of mangoes b) Machinery for drying and cooling of grain/seed c) Machinery for pruning and harvesting/picking of mangoes d) Conservation of agricultural machinery for precision

agriculture Provided comments on evaluation report for the construction

of integrated fruit processing plant, electrification and 100 MT cold storage shed at Lingmithang under Mongar Dgongkhag.

Provided comments on the TOR for baseline survey prepared by IA-Afghanistan.

Attended 1st Training of Trainers Programme of ANTAM Test Codes held in Nanjing, China (June 23-27, 2015).

Signed MoU with Job Trust at NARC. Monitoring & evaluation of RADP sub-projects related to AED

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were continued. Coordinated with Director (HRD), PARC and Director (IC), PARC

regarding correspondence with international organizations/High Commissions of Pakistan in different countries.

ii) Dissemination of research results / new technologies

Held a meeting with Chairman FBR along with Secretary, MNFS&R & Member (NR). The key issue of GST on Agricultural Machinery was discussed, and convinced Chairman, FBR to reduce cost on Agricultural Machinery. He accepted the point of view of MNFS&R and promised to reduce it in the Budget 2015-16.

Attended the Technical Advisory Committee of ALP at PARC HQs.

Visited the site for establishment of Nursery Plant at LRS, NARC along with Mr Shabbir A. Kalwar. Mr Kalwar briefed about his work and technical suggestions were provided on the spot.

Attended one day consultative workshop on “Policies for creating enabling environment for encouraging problem solving research” organized by Pakistan Council for Science & Technology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Islamabad.

Attended meeting of Reforms Committee consultation for IMCC at PARC H/Qs.

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

S # Official Task/Activity Status of Task

1. Monitoring of Ongoing Projects

Continue monitoring of ALP ongoing projects (72) being implemented at various research institutes/ universities. Financial and technical progress reports of four (4) projects collected from PIs examined/ evaluated were forwarded to the Finance Division and technical divisions.

2. Funds Released Funds were released to the fourteen (14) projects after financial reports provided by the PIs forwarded to Finance Division, PARC and found in order.

3. Honoraria Awarded to PIs

The case for honorarium of PI of nine (9) honorarium cases projects processed.

4. Budget Revision The re-appropriation of budget break-up for 2014-15 in respect of the two (02) on-going projects, revised as per project requirement.

5. Processing and appraisal

A project on “Collection and Preservation of Mango Germplasm from different locations of mango growing provinces of Pakistan for single nucleotide polymorphism” submitted by National IPM program, Department of Plant and Environmental Protection, NARC was evaluated and submitted to the Chairman for onward submission to the PSF for processing for funding under endowment funds.

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A case regarding post facto approval of budget allocation 2011-12 and 2012-13 of a completed PSF funded project “Edpidemiological, serological, hematological and therapeutic studies on ovine nematodiasis in three ecological zones of Baluchistan” examined and processed for approval of the competent authority in the council.

6. Meetings of Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of the Board of Directors of ALP

The final minutes of the 31st meeting of TAC after the approval of Chairman, PARC/ BOD, ALP were provided to all concerned for follow-up actions.

The 32nd meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of Board of Board of Directors (BOD) was held on 4th June, 2015 at PARC headquarters, Islamabad.

7. Investment Committee of the Board of Directors of ALP

A meeting of the investment committee of ALP was held and in the meeting present status of investment and future strategy to deposit the funds in some more profitable schemes were discussed. Minutes were issued after the approval of the convener of the committee.

8. Annual progress report of Directorate of CG&MOU

Annual progress report of the Directorate of CG&MOU of P&D Division for the year 2014-15 prepared for consolidation of the report for the Division and printing in PARC annual report.

9. Processing and appraisal

A project on “Development of organic Norms for Organic Certification in Pakistan” submitted by National Institute of organic Agriculture, NARC for funding under the endowment fund of Economic Wing of M/o National Food Security and Research was evaluated and forwarded to the concerned quarter for consideration.

A case for issuance of sanction on account of technical services charges to PARC and provincial researchers engaged in foreign aided project “Pakistan FELTP – Human/animal Disease Investigation & Technical Assistance to PARC” for the year 2013-14 out of budget 2014-15 processed and issued through Central Secretariat, PARC.

10. PARC Business Plan 2013- 18 and M&E

Annual Work Plan 2014-15 of PARC (Technical Volume) finalized and presented to Chairman and posted to all Divisions, Centers and Institutes of PARC. Response of support services is poor and their part of AWP is under completion.

AWPs 2015-16 requested to all Divisions/centers/institute and being followed up for early submission of Plans, only few responses have arrived.

ICIMOD-M&E expert visited for one week and reviewed the progress made so far, discussed way forward and held several meetings with PARC/NARC scientists and senior management.

A meeting organized and M&E capacity building program discussed with a ICIMOD M&E expert (Mr. Farid), private expert (Mr. Attique) and PSSP-IFPRI experts. Mr. Farid gave a presentation on the work carried out and way forward. Planning and designing process is on, to be finalized after further discussion with ICIMOD, PSSP, Private Expert, DG-P&DD and Chairman PARC.

Process of NIGAB (PSDP Project) M&E started, strategy developed TOR for the experts prepared and proposal submitted for approvals after

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nomination of experts by the Technical Divisions to be hired for NIGAB M&E.

M&E to be started on completion of approval process/ plan.

ALP – PSD Rawalpindi/Islamabad projects M&E at NARC completed and reports being finalized.

11. Planning Activities A concept clearance paper on a mega project on ‘Agricultural Research and Innovations Investment Program’ (World Bank funding) prepared and submitted to M/o NFS&R for processing for approval of Planning Commission and forwarding to the World Bank for placing the scoping Mission through EAD. World Bank office already contacted by EAD for placing Scoping Mission to for detailed project proposal preparation/ finalization.

Another concept paper prepared for the Balochistan Agricultural uplift through innovation and research.

Strategic input going-on on the project “Development of National Standards for Certification of Organic Products” at the National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad”.

12. RADP (Program Officer)

Input on files of RADP continued to help PIU-RADP to finalize replies of audit paras. PD - RADP supported in many issues like PSC decisions, procurements.

Planning on M&E exercise of outstation on-going RADP sub-projects completed, to start after Ramadan.

13. Project on Capacity Building for proposal writing

One day workshop executed for University of Haripur faculty members. More than fifty faculty members attended.

14. AIP and Others Punjab Board activities of AIP being strengthened by supporting the focal person and team. A visit conducted to Lahore and Faisalabad as a member of the Sub-committee of TAC –AIP. Shortlisted more than 90 projects of AIP-Punjab.

PM&E Annual Report 2014-15 finalized and compiled the P&DD Annual Report for printing in PARC Annual report 2014-15. Sent to Director Publication.

Brief consolidated activities report for the month of May 2015 for P&DD prepared and sent to Dir. Technical, PARC.

15. Allocation to PARC projects in PSDP 2015-16

After completing all procedural requirements, Parliament of Pakistan has approved the development budget 2015-16 in which an allocation of Rs.1357.687 million has been made to the seventeen (17) projects of PARC including thirteen (13) on-going and four (4) new projects.

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

A concept paper on “Agricultural Research and Innovation Investment Program” with a total cost of Rs.6300 million including FEC of Rs.5050 million for a period of 60 months was submitted to the M/o NFS&R for approval of competent authority/forum. The concept is seeking technical and financial assistance from the World Bank.

17. Preparation of new Projects

A meeting was held on 26-6-2015 under the chairmanship of Member (NRD) PARC to discuss following new projects for development Chitral: i. Construction of Dronil-Tashqar Irrigation Channel ii. Construction/Restoration of Brep Civil Irrigation Channel

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Coordination & Monitoring Division

S. # Coordination Activity Status of Task

1 Coordination Organized first Consultation Meeting of the Inter Ministerial Coordination Committee (IMCC) on 17-6-2015 at PARC. Nominees of 12 Ministries attended the meeting under the chairmanship of Dr. Iftikhar Ahmed the forum appreciate the PARC effort and finalized composition of the (IMCC).

Held a meeting with Job Trust and Akhuwat NGO for joint venture on the promotion of value addition through solar drying.

2 MOU’s PARC signed an MoU with Jobs Trust a Non Govt. Entity. Regarding value addition through solar drying

3 Training Foreign Short Term/Foreign Degree Training cases forwarded to National Food Security and Research Division.

National Agricultural Research Centre

S# Official Task/Activity Status of Task

1. Research & Development Activities

Crop Sciences Sector

Recording of remaining data of harvested/threshed wheat crop breeding material, i.e., NUWYT, International trials/ nurseries, NRs, PYT, AYT and demonstration material, etc. in lab is in progress.

Recording of data in computer/analysis of data of all the wheat crop breeding material, i.e., NUWYT, International trials/nurseries, NRs, PYT, AYT and demonstration material, etc. is in progress.

Recording of data in computer/analysis of data of all the different wheat crop agronomic trials/demonstration plots planted at NARC and as well as on farmer’s fields is in progress.

Under AVRDC project “Benefits” 296 mung bean accessions were acquired from AVRDC for seed multiplication and characterization at NARC.

Distribution of mung bean seed, rhizobium and fertilizer was done among the selected farmers of five districts of Potohar region under AIP/AVRDC “Improved Mung Production”.

Maintained groundnut variety “Pothhar” on 16 acres on farmers’ fields in Hazro, District Attock and Chakwal and 2 acres at NARC for seed multiplication

Harvested and threshed seed multiplication block of parent

iii. Shahinegar Irrigation cum Hydro Power Project It was decided to finalize the project after consultation with Director General, Water Management, Islamabad. after finalization the project will be submitted to M/o NFS&R for approval of competent authority/forum.

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lines (A and B) on one acre at NARC.

Agro-morphological data regarding pod length, pod width, seeds/pod, seed color, 1000-seed weight and seed yield/plant was recorded for 367 accessions of B. juncea, 306 accessions of B. napus and 298 accessions of Brassica rapa germplasm. Similarly, qualitative/quantitative traits regarding seed yield contributing traits were observed for fenugreek, Kalonji, linseed and safflower germplasm. Harvesting and threshing of B. napus, Kalonji, linseed, safflower, barley and wheat germplasm was completed.

Total seed storage proteins analysis was conducted using 30 varieties of wheat for the assessment of genetic diversity among given germplasm using SDS-PAGE technique.

Prepared germplasm information (2010-15) for the forthcoming visit of NA Standing Committee on Agriculture to NARC.

Wheat yellow rust screening experiment including 255 genotypes was planted at SARS, Kaghan.

Completed data recording and harvesting of synthetic wheat planted for heat tolerance in tunnel.

Natural Resources Sector

One hundred and sixty five honeybee Apis mellifera colonies were examined for the infection of honey bee diseases, mite and off season management at NARC, Islamabad. Two colonies were found infected with American foul brood (AFB) disease. For confirmation of the disease a tooth pick was inserted into the body of suspected pre-pupa and drawn out which showed ropiness. For the control of AFB disease, Terramycin 250 mg. was added in five liter sugar syrup and fed to the diseased colonies at weekly interval.

Nine colonies were found infested with chalk brood disease. For the control of diseased colonies supplemental feeding by adding Lysovate syrup was given at weekly interval.

Hive debris colonies were observed for the infestation of eco-parasitic mites by placing mites collection trays in the bottom board of each colony. The data showed that six colonies were infested with Varroa destructor while 150 colonies were found infested with Tropilaelap clarea. One Fluvalinate strip @ 10 bee frames was supplied for the management of mites.

Summer management of all the bee colonies of HBRI as well as RADP sub-project of high quality honey production from Margallah hills is in progress.

Feasibility of high quality production of Margallah honey and ber honey during 2015-16 financed by PATCO has been submitted to DG, NARC for approval.

An experiment has been started to check the efficacy of sulpher and fluvalinate injection for the control of ecto-parasitic bee

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mites.

Dipping of 300 frame feeders were made for supplemental feeding of RADP apiaries

Comb honey produced and packed under RADP Margallah Hills Project, it will be available for public through PATCO.

Prepared bee wax sheets of Apis mellifera and A. cerana for beekeeping community.

Physicochemical analysis of 45 honey samples received from RADP and HBRI Apis mellifera colonies were completed for quality assurance. The tests included moisture, pH, acidity, sucrose and total sugars. Three samples from PATCO while two samples were received from DG, NARC.

Four propolis samples purified by Ethanol extraction were used to study the antimicrobial activity of propolis against different wound infecting bacteria. These were found to be effective.

Thirty seven soil samples were analyzed for EC, pH, N, P and K. Seven samples of water were analyzed for their fitness.

Macro and Micronutrients analysis was carried out in wheat grain samples.

Initial soil samples were collected from field trials for analyzes and demonstrating beneficial role of Boron on peanut in Chakwal district.

Strains have been isolated and purified for vermicompost

New strains have been isolated and purified for different crops from tomato, chilies, Potato, capsicum and mungbean characterization in process.

Animal Sciences Sector

Primary culture of goat kidney cells was conducted using 5-6 months old goat kidneys collected from Rawalpindi slaughter house for isolation of PPR virus.


At Dairy and Meat Technology Section (DMTS) of the APIP, DNA extraction was done from selected strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckiissp. bulgaricus. The extracted DNA was then subjected to PCR reaction using genus specific primers. Out of 7 samples, 3 strains gave positive indication as shown by a visible band on 1% agarose gel.

Breeding of ornamental fish i.e Guppies and mollies have been successfully achieved.

Water quality of experimental ponds was monitored on weekly basis.

Propagated avian adenovirus 4 and 8 in whole embryo fibroblast primary cell culture.

Under PPR ALP project, a local isolate of PPR virus (PAK-Fjg-07/NARC4) from AHP repository is being attenuated for the

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development of PPR vaccine by serial passages on Vero cells. During current month 44 serial passages have been completed.

RT-PCR for PPR was optimized using newly designed N gene primers of PPR virus and whole Nucleoprotein N gene of PPR consisting of 1578 nucleotides was successfully amplified.

Two PPRV suspected swab samples collected from camels in an outbreak in Thar, Sindh were inoculated onto Vero cells for PPR virus isolation.

A PPR virus was recovered in cell culture from lymph node sample collected from an outbreak of PPR in Faisalabad district.

Serotype specific primers for Loop mediated isothermal amplification assay were reconstituted and the assay was performed with serotype O primers for molecular detection of FMD virus.


Experiment regarding Immuno-suppression agent affects in Adeno positive birds(10 birds trial) has been completed.

Determination of Tissue tropism against IBV (60 birds trial) is in process.

Social Sciences Sector

Reviewed the literature to prepare a Research study, Entitled ‘Perception of Resilience and Vulnerability in the Poor communities due to climate change shock and how it is being coped with adaptive strategies adopted by men and women.’

Assisted in preparing the presentation regarding ASLP Social Project titled “Gender Role in Pakistan Agriculture”, for the Ministry of National Food Security & Research.

Data entry in progress for dates growers of baseline survey under project entitled “Post Harvest Management and Value Addition of Fruits in Production Catchments of SAARC Countries (Pakistan Component)”

Data entry for Z.T drill and laser leveling technologies were completed under project titled “Economics of Using Alternative Energy Sources and Adoption of Energy Saving Practices by the Farmers under Current Energy Crisis in Pakistan”

Data collection in KPK and Sindh provinces was performed under project titled “Economics of Using Alternative Energy Sources and Adoption of Energy Saving Practices by the Farmers under Current Energy Crisis in Pakistan”

The report writing is in progress of the professional training on “Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation Technology Improvements in Pakistan organized by CAEWRI with collaboration of ICARDA and USDA at Fatehjang Field Station.

Submitted the report of the professional training on “Soil Fertility and Crop Yield Improvement Techniques” under Soil

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fertility and Soil Health Project, organized by SAWCRI with collaboration of ICARDA and USDA at Chakwal.

Developed a proposal on Impact assessment of farmer’s field school approach of Gilgit Baltistan.

2. Coordinated Activities Crop Sciences Sector

Entries of sesame NUYT 2015 were coded from FSC&RD and making of seed for trial is in progress

The seed of thirty four lines of sorghum, forty lines of millet and seven pairs of counter part A and B sorghum lines (CMS lines) was provided to FRI, Sargodha.

Three entries of Quinoa germplasm were donated by Dr. Afzal Rizvi, Hamdard University, Karachi for conservation in PGRI genebank

A total of 707 accessions of various crop species were distributed for research purpose. These included tomato (1) to Dr. Tariq, Quaid-e-Azam University; wheat (82) to Dr. Inam Ullah, Hazara University, Mansehra; wheat (2) to Dr. Zafarullah Zafar, BZU, Multan; sorghum (100) to Dr. Shabir Shakoor, Director, Fodder Research Institute, Sargodha; wheat (196) to Dr. Peter John, NUST, Islamabad; wheat (166) to Dr. Munir, PBG, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi; buckwheat (160) to Shafi Ullah, Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit-Baltistan

Animal Sciences Sector

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

The SRR section of the APIP is engaged under assignments and activities related to the newly started PATCO Goat Project for procuring and fattening of male goats at NARC.In this regard, the SSO, APIP along-with Stock Superviser, APIP conducted a six day (June 14 to 19, 2015) tour of Muzaffargarh and Rahim Yar Khan districts for the purchase of goats for fattening and sale at the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha under the PATCO Goat Project. The SSO, APIP along-with other staff members also visited GaliJehangir, Fatah Jang, Attock for the purchase of goats under the PATCO Goat Project on June 27, 2015..

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

Coordination activity for ALP project “Genetic improvement of selected indigenous naked neck by crossing with exotic poultry breeds of Rhode Island Red and Black Australorp” was performed.

A one day workshop was attended at Abbottabad on Poultry Disease Surveillance organized by ALP Project L&DD KPK

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component and delivered 2 lectures. Social Sciences Sector

Attended a meeting with Italian delegation in SSRI Committee Room, NARC on June 10, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.

Attended a visit of Mr. Farid Ahmed, M&E Expert ICIMOD, Nepal on the implementation of the M&E framework in Executive Committee Room, NARC

3. Dissemination of research results / new technologies

Wheat program arranged travelling seminar on maize AIP trials CIMMYT on 14-06-15 TO 17-06-15 planted at Bhowana, Chnniot, Lahore; Qabula, Arifwala and MMRI, Yousafwala and took observation/evaluation.

Improved production technologies of various fodder crops were disseminated to fifteen fodder growers through verbal discussions and written material (germplasm).

A seminar “Selection of Plant Secondary Traits in D-Genome Synthetic Hexaploid Wheat Lines using Statistical Tools” was presented by Dr. Sajjad Hussain in PGRI.

Participated and presented baseline survey experience in inception workshop held under SDF, Project Entitled “Post Harvest Management and Value Addition of Fruits in Production Catchments of SAARC Countries (Pakistan Component)” held in Sukkur on June 8, 2015.

Animal Health scientists organized an inaugural ceremony of PARC Mobile Veterinary Clinic at NARC auditorium. The Federal Minister of National Food Security and Research, Chairman PARC, Member Animal Sciences, PARC and NARC scientists and farmers attended the ceremony.

The ANP sold 1827 bags of PARC cattle feed, 19urea molasses blocks, and 13kg milk booster to farmers under PATCO.

The DMT section of the APIP processed19 batches of milk (12 L each) for preparation of plain yoghurt and white cheese sale at PATCO sale point.

The PW section of the APIP sold culled birds, High Egg Producing Crossbred Rural Chicks, and eggs under PATCO.

The LRS sold 7500 L of milk and 1700 bales of silage in collaboration with PATCO.

4. Training Imparted B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture student from the Univ. of Poonch, A. J. & K. completed her internship

M. Sc. (Hons) student from PMAS Arid University, Rawalpindi completed her research work

One M.Sc. student from Hazara University was trained in physiological parameters i.e., chlorophyll, proline, sugar and protein contents measurement.

Arranged training of the second batch of 25 Field Assistants of Malakand and Hazara Divisions, Agriculture Extension Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).

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Imparted one day training to the participants of Training Course of Field Assistants (FA-1) under “Capacity development of Agriculture extension in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province”- A JICA funded project on June 10, 2015 undertaken by API, NARC.

One scientist from ANP attended 3 days training, National Training for CDM (Clean Development Mechanism) Assessment for PC-I of Public Sector Projects, organized by Ministry of Climate Change, Islamabad, Pakistan

A scientist from AHP imparted training to veterinarians and para-veterinary staff from Gilgit-Baltistan regarding brucellosis.

One scientist of ANP delivered series of training seminars from 15 to 18 June, 2015 on livestock nutrition/management to farmers under the project “Capacity Building of Youth in Agricultural Entrepreneur for PMYBLP” at Veterinary Hospital, Jalalpur, Pirwala, Multan.

(central secretariat) subject: monthly major activities

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