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Agri Knowledge
Annual Report
2016-17
PARC
Annual Report
2016-17
CONTENTS
1 Chairman's Forewords i
2 Plant Sciences 1
3 Natural Resources 11
4 Animal Sciences 20
5 Social Sciences 28
6 Agricultural Engineering 35
This is my first foreword for an annual report since being appointed as the Chairman
of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council. It is indeed a great honor and
privilege to be part of such a wonderful organization. Since joining on 5th October
2016, I have interacted with scientists and staff in PARC and all other regional
centers as well as our development partners to get first hand information about the
exciting work that is going on.
The first and foremost task was to develop the executive team by appointing regular
Technical Members. Our team is now in place and making much required positive
changes.
The restructuring of NARC, our largest center in Islamabad, was done for a better
working. Several institutes were merged. A working discipline was put in place in all
the centers. The flagship of food security is in the stronghold of able scientists of
PARC who have been playing their remarkable role in all fields of agriculture and serving the entire nation as
well as around the globe.
The Plant Sciences Division (PSD) has always been in forefront for developing new varieties, introducing
innovative production technologies for the cropping systems as well as exhibiting itself as an important partner
in the national uniform yield trials. The PSD is also introducing the exotic fruits, germplasms of various crops as
well as of vegetables.
The Natural Resources Division (NRD) has generated knowledge and developed technologies for conservation
of land, water, range and forest resources. Further experiments are being done to improve products like
HumiNARC, Biozote and other bio-inoculants for accelerated phytoremediation of metals contaminated soils.
PARC honey has been a trusted brand for the last many years because of its purity and variety. The solarization
of water pumping and studies on glacier melting in Gilgit-Baltistan were vital interventions made by scientists
of the NRD.
The Animal Sciences Division (ASD) is fighting out various viral diseases of the livestock and small ruminants,
including foot-mouth (FMD) and PPR. Research has also been done for better animal nutrition as well as milk
production. The ASD has a very strong past for its contribution in inhibiting viral diseases of poultry through
accredited laboratories at National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC). Fisheries have been also very active
for last few years for introducing new fish varieties.
The Social Sciences Division (SSD) has a crucial role of conducting research to fill gaps, develop linkages,
highlighting success stories, assisting in the way forward of the organization and the country. The SSD is also
playing a greater role in outreach activities and passing the technologies developed by PARC to farmers. This
Division is undergoing a major restructuring.
The Agricultural Engineering Division (AED) has added value to agriculture through mechanization,
renewable energy technologies, value addition, postharvest and food engineering. Newly developed machines
include Multipurpose Wood Chipper, Pak Seeder, Cane Crusher, dehusking of Ispaghol and bio-furnace.
The Coordination and Monitoring (C&M) Division developed various national and international MoUs.
Moreover, through exchange programs the scientists are receiving long-term and short-term trainings in
various countries.
This all is being achieved in collaboration with national and international agencies and organization like
CIMMYT, USAID, USDA, Pak-Italian Cooperation, Dow-Agro Sciences, ACIAR-ASLP, ILSI Research
Foundation, IDS-IFPRI, COMCEC, FAO, JICA, CABI Bioscience and many others.
PARC is making progress under the patronage of Ministry of National Food Security & Research. The strong
support of the Ministry enabled us to improve our working. Once again it is ensured that the food security is the
PARC's priority and it is in safe hands.
YUSUF ZAFAR
i
Plant Sciences
Plant Sciences in broader sense works in the field of crop production, plant protection and horticultural
research. All efforts are made for the value addition and meet the demands of local and international markets
with a keen focus to minimize the chemical use and minimal disturbance of the ecology during food production.
In order to achieve the above goals, priority research areas were identified including maintenance of genetic
diversity and germplasm improvement; variety development; standardization of production technology
package for sustainable crop production; integrated pest management; agricultural mechanization; and post-
harvest management.
CROP PRODUCTION
Wheat
The Wheat Research program NARC is using all conventional methods (introduction, Selection and
Hybridization) to breed new wheat varieties with characteristics of economic importance. Wheat advances
lines/germplasm is introduced from CIMMYT and ICARDA. The germplasm is tested for adoptability and
other traits of economic importance. The elite lines are then selected for further testing in yield trials.
Generation advancement: 162 F1 generations were maintained and assessed for different traits and 151
populations were harvested for generation advancement. About 766 segregation populations at different filial
generations (F2-F6) were maintained at NARC and 561 population were harvested for generation advancement
F7 Head Rows: 560 F7 head rows from 56 populations were planted at NARC and 400 F7 head rows are
available for selecting genetically fixed lines. Among these lines 52 were selected for evaluation in yield trials.
Selection was based on disease resistance (all three rusts, powdery mildew, loose smut, and kernal bunt), grain
color and plant type.
Yield trials: Three spring wheat yield trials viz 37th elite spring wheat yield trial (37th ESWYT), 24th semi-
arid wheat yield trial (24th SAWYT), 4th wheat yield consortium yield trial (4th WYCYT) and an
international durum yield trials (IDYT) comprising of 154 test entries were evaluated. Thirty five elite lines
were selected for further testing in advance yield trials. Except IDYT the effect of genotype on yield was
significant in all the trials. In 37th elite spring wheat trail (37th ESWYT) 50 entries were reevaluated. The
range of yield was from 3677-4814kg /ha. The standard check produced 4670 kg/ha whereas top yield entry
produced 3% higher yield than check variety. Twelve elite lines were selected from this trial. Fifty entries were
evaluated in 24th SAWYT. The range of yield in 22nd SAWYT was from 3190-4287kg/ha with LSD of value of
699kg/ha and none of entry exceeded in yield than local check. Nine lines were selected for further evaluation in
advance yield trials. In 4th WYCYT thirty entries were evaluated and 12 entries were selected. The range of
yield was from 2948-4560kg/ha. The top yielded line showed a yield increase of 4% than local check. In the
international durum yield trial (IDYT) of ICARDA no significant difference was observed among the genotype.
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In a multi-location National Regional Yield trail (NRYT) conducted over four locations, 25 elite lines were
tested for adaptability. Three the best adopted lines were selected for testing in National uniform Yield Trial. In
this trial genotype x environment interactive effect as well as main effect of genotypes on yield was significant.
The range of yield was noticed between 4703-3421kg/ha. The highest yielded line produced 10% higher yield
than check (42790kg/ha).
Significant Achievements
As result of above breeding activities above following significant achievements has been made:
? Top 9 high yielding breed lines from advance yield trials (AYTs) were tested in National Wheat Disease
Screening Nursery (NWDSN) for screening against various diseases of economic importance.
? Based on the performance, 5 advance bred wheat lines were evaluated in the micro varietal wheat yield
trials (provincial yield trial of Punjab) 2016-17 and two were selected for testing in NUWYT.
? 3 advance lines were contributed to DUS for testing at FSC & RD.
? Based on the performance at various stages of testing, three advance bread wheat lines were evaluated in
the National Uniform Wheat Trials (NUWYT) under both rainfed and irrigated conditions during 2016-
17. Two advance lines (NR 448 and NR 491) were contributed for first year testing while one bread wheat
advance line (NR 487) was contributed for second year testing in NUWYT.
? One durum advance line was for first time tested in NUDYT during 2016-17 cropping season
? A high yielding disease resistance a candidate variety NR 449: NR 449 was tested for its yield
performance at different locations in the National Uniform Wheat Yield Trials both under irrigated and
rainfed conditions for two year. During the first year of testing under irrigated condition produced 3793
Kg/ha grain yield and was statistically at par with high yield check variety. Under rainfed condition it
produced 4.3% higher yield (3888kg/ha) than composite check variety (3728kg/ha) and statistically at
par with the high yielding entry. During the second year of testing (2015-16) under irrigated condition, it
stood fourth in yield ranking on all Pakistan basis (4100Kg/ha) producing 5.6% higher yield than
composite check (3881kg/ha). Under rainfed condition, it stood first in yield ranking on all Pakistan basis
(4132Kg/ha) producing 11% higher yield than the composite local check. When both irrigated and
rainfed planting was combined it again got first position (4108kg/ha) producing 8% higher yield than
composite check (3812Kg/ha). NR 449 carries desirable resistance against yellow rust (YR) and leaf rust
(LR) with RRI 8.29 for YR and 8.98 for LR during 2015-16. During 2014-15 RRI was 8.69for YR and
8.74 for LR as reported by CDRI-NARC. NR 449 is presented for spot examination based on its
performance in national, regional and station trials and resistance against rusts. It will also complement
the already existing wheat varieties in irrigated/rainfed areas of the country and the farmers will benefit
from its higher yield and resistance against prevalent races of rusts. It will be presented in VEC and PSC
in the current cropping season to release as a commercial variety.
Hybridization
In 2016-17 cropping season about 60 cross combinations were attempted and 39 successful cross combinations
were harvested for producing high zinc containing recombinants. 40 F1s were planted and harvested and 140
segregating populations a different filial generations (F3-F6) were planted and harvested at NARC. About 230
Head Rows (HRs) from 23 segregating populations were also planted and harvested at NARC. About 23
genetically fixed lines with high zinc were developed selected to test in IEYT.
Exotic germplasm evaluation: About 250 entries were evaluated in Harvest plus yield trial (7th HPYT) and
in Harvest plus Asian Nursery (8th HPAN). The lines developed by the Wheat Program of CIMMYT. 7th
HPYT was plated over five locations. The trial consisted of 50 entries and 16 elite lines were selected for further
test in station yield trials. The 8th HPAN consisted of 200 lines and 11eliet lines were selected.
Station trials: About fifty eight elite lines were tested in two station yield trials namely; Harvest plus primary
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wheat yield trial (HPPWYT) and Harvest Plus advance wheat yield trial (HPAWYT) and twenty three
prominent lines were selected on performance basis. A multilocation Yield trail consisted of 8 entries was also
conducted at three locations (NARC-Islamabad, WRI-Faisalabad and CCRI-Pirsabak) to study the
environment x genotype interaction. Data was analyzed and one line was selected. This will tested in NUWYT
next year.
Significant achievements
Two elite lines with high zinc were contributed to national wheat diseases screening nursery (NWDSN) CDRI
for testing against diseases. Two advance lines were contributed to DUS testing at FSC & RD. One advance line
was tested in Provincial wheat Yield Trial. Two promising lines (NR- 443, NR 480) were tested in NUWYT.
The candidate variety NR 443 performs well during both year of its testing in NUWYT. It is comparable with
high yielding commercial variety in NUWYT at its first and second year of testing. It showed high grain Zn
content as compared to the composite check. It also carries desirable resistance against yellow rust (YR), leaf
rust (LR) and stem rust. It will be presented in VEC and Punjab Seed Council (PSC) for approval to release as
commercial variety in irrigated ecology of Punjab.
SEED PRODUCTION
Invest in pre-release multiplication to ensure seed supply at release 1400 kg breeder seed of 28 rusts resistant
and high yielding pre-release advance lines has been harvested at NARC.
Breeder seed (BNS): 50 progeny blocks of each of commercial varieties of NARC (Pakistan 2013, NARC
2011, Zincol 2016, Borlaug 2016 and NARC 2009) were planted and about 0.75 tonne BNS seed of above
mentioned varieties was harvested.
Pre-Basic seed: About 11.7 tonne pre-basic seed of four NARC released varietiescertified (Pakistan 2013,
NARC 2011, Zincol 2016 and Borlaug 2016) as produced. About 126 tonne of basis and 14 tonnes certified seed
of above mentioned varieties was also produced. Different categories of above mentioned seed was examined
by FSC&RD. The final report for approval of certification was provided by FSC&RD after testing of seed
samples in laboratories
CROP PROTECTION
Disease Resistance
During 2015-2016 PARC released varieties that were proven resistant to UG 99 even after international
assessment. During 2016-17,a total of 154 advanced lines weretested against wheat rusts and found 22 are
resistant to all rust, 12 to leaf and yellow, 5 to stem and yellow while 4 to leaf and stem. Among these only 1 line
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was found resistant to spot blotch and 50 lines were found resistant to Powdery mildew. 142 lines were tested
against Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus and 8 were found resistant.
Among other crops such as sunflower, 207 Hybrids lines of sunflower were screened against charcoal rot
(Macrophominaphaseolina), 33 were found Moderately Resistant. Two local hybrids (SMH-0917 and SMH-
0927) are in pipe line for approval of release. In Canola, 71 entries of Canola were tested against Sclerotinia rot
(Sclerotiniasclerotorium), out of which 16 were found Moderately Resistant, the entry HOP09 is in pipe line to
be released as variety. Ground nut 109 entries were tested for resistance against Fusarium and Tikka disease,
among which 23 were found mostly resistant against both. The onion 39 entries were tested purple blotch
(Alternariaporri) and 3 were found Moderately Resistant. 145 entries of chillies were tested against
Phytophthora blight (Phytophthora capsici) disease and two were found resistant.Forty two accessions of
potato were tested against late blight of potato (Phytophthora infestans) and 4 were found highly resistant.
Chickpea 45 lines were tested for blight disease (Ascochytarabiei) in glasshouse, out of which 6 were found
highly resistant and twelve were found resistant while 90 accessions were tested in field conditions and out of
those, 6 were found highly resistant and 18 were found resistant.. 68 accessions of mungbean were tested for
leaf spot (Cercosporacanescens) and 30 were found resistant. Similarly, 72 lines of mash bean were tested for
cercospora leaf spot (Cercosporacanescens) and 36 were found resistant.
Biological Control
Chrysoperla is a genus of green lacewings in the neuropteran family Chrysopidae. Therein they belong to
the Chrysopini, the largest tribe of subfamilyChrysopinae.Members of this genus and the genus Chrysopa
are very common in North America and Europe. They share similar characteristics and some species have
been moved from one genus to the other and back. Their larvae are predatory and feed on aphids and
members of this genus have been used in biological pest control. The life table attributes of
Chrysoperlacarnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) are being studied at Biological Control Lab of NARC.
Life table attributes of Chrysoperlacarnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) reared on Corcyra cephalonica
(Lepidoptera: Pyrilidae) eggs were studied under laboratory conditions. The apparent mortality was
maximum (8%) at egg stage and minimum (2%) at 2nd instarstage. The survival fraction (Sx) for egg, first,
second, third, pre pupa and pupal stages was .92, .93, .92, .97, .95 and .92 respectively. The total generation
mortality “K” value was 0.17. The mean generation time and population doubling time was 19.96 and 3.63
days respectively.
In a similar study, Chrysoperlacarnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) reared on (Lepidoptera: Gelechidae)
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eggs mortality (100 qx) was maximum (21%) at egg stage and minimum (7%) at pupal stage. The total
generation mortality “K” value from egg to adult emergence was 0.376. The mean generation time and
population doubling time was 18.68 and 3.99 days respectively.
Then biological studies on papaya mealy bug are being undertaken. The natural enemy fauna of papaya mealy
bug has been explored. So for, eight natural enemies of P. marginatus have been reported from NARC premises.
ECOTOXICOLOGY RESEARCH
In ICARDA-USDA Project 2011-17 “Management of CLCV disease through Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) techniques by adopting Farmers Field School (FFS) approach” the target was to train the farmers using
farmer field school approaches for the management of cotton leaf curl virus by involving the resource persons
from virology background.
During 2016-17, Overall 84 FFS and 79 Participatory Learning Groups (PLGs) were established in seven
cotton growing project districts of Punjab and Sindh (Bahawalpur, DG Khan, Khanewal, Multan, Vehari,
Sanghar&Umerkot) provinces. Overall 3171 (average 28/FFS and 11/PLG) small cotton farmers/growers
underwent training through FFS and PLGs during the cotton season. Three hundred twenty-eight (328) farmers
trained in district Bahawalpur, 431 farmers trained in DG Khan, 480 farmers trained in district Khanewal, 480
farmers trained in district Multan, 447 farmers trained in district Vehari, 360 farmers trained in district Sanghar
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and 345 farmers trained in district Umerkot. Moreover, a documentary on FFS process was prepared covering
children ecological clubs, project progress and farmers views in local languages which were translated in
English. A manual on “Cotton Best Management Practices” was compiled earlier in Urdu and Sindhi was
reprinted for local cotton growers and farmers.
Glimpses of Farmer Field Schools for cotton leaf curl virus management
National insect museum at NARC is entrusted upon the assignments to collect and maintain the insect fauna of
Pakisan. This year About 200 insect specimens were recorded on different vegetables. Among these 100
specimens were identified yielding five pest and three predatory species. Two species of Odonata naiads
(agricultural and medical importance) were reared and fed on dengue vector mosquito larvae to check predatory
efficacy. Bees specimens received from different universities were taxonomically worked out and eleven
species have been identified. Ant Fauna of Pakistan (Hymenoptera formicidae) has been collected by the
museum.
Phytophagous weevils, a seed pest, were recorded from selected foothills of Himalaya Ten species based on 150
sorted specimens were identified. More than 15,000 specimens were curated and maintained by removing
fungus from specimens and rust from pins.
New and effective zinc phosphide bait formulation for rodent control
Rodents especially rats have been seriously damaging various establishments for centuries. PARC rodent
control lab has historical role for developing various formulations and baits for rodent control. This year the lab
has developed new and effective zinc phosphide bait formulation in pellet form by increasing its palatability
after conducting series of lab and field experiments. The bait consists of millet cracked, maize cracked, and
wheat flour as bait base and peanut butter as an added to mask the peculiar smell of zinc phosphide compound.
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Dead bodies of wild boar
Wild boar Management at NARC campus
Overall three wild boar operations were carried out at NARC campus. A comprehensive survey of NARC
boundary wall was conducted to mark the entry points of wild boar. Control strategies involved use of acute
poison in poultry heads in the first phase followed by slow poison (Acumen) after a gap of 3-4 days to tackle the
remaining population.
BIOREMEDIATION
HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH
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increased for further evaluation in NUYT and other experiments.
NARC Potato IV (393574-72) 1440 kg seed produced
NARC Potato III 1120 kg seed produced
2005-1 240 kg seed produced
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Onion sets production Seeding machine
KITCHEN GARDENING
Established 79 “Kitchen Gardener's groups. About 0.5 million seedlings and 14,000 seed kits were distributed
to promote kitchen gardening. In order to create awareness about Kitchen Gardening, 25 training courses
coupled with 427 demonstration plots were developed.
FLORICULTURE PROGRAM
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Effect of IBA on Hydrangea Cuttings Effect of IBA on Wisteria Cuttings Effect of IBA on Fuchsia cuttings
PLANT INTRODUCTION
The institute of Plant Introduction was set at SARC Karachi to improve the plant health for fruit harvest through
nutrition management, water holding capacity and initiate propagation activities through nursery development.
Maintenance of Grmplasm
Coconuts: Presently, four known varieties of coconut namely; Srilankan tall (green), Ranthambeli,
Gonthambeli, Srilankan dwarf (green) along some unknown hybridsare being maintained at IPI farm.
Chikku: Two types (oval and round) of chikku are being maintained. Out of ninety five trees only few trees bear
fruit, because these fruits are very old. Farm yard manure and irrigation along with insecticide Curacran for pest
control have been applied.
Tamarind: Forty nine trees of two types of sweet and sour tamarind are being maintained. The seed is also used
for nursery development.
Dates: 23 trees of dates of different varieties are being maintained.
Ber: A total of 132 grafted trees of gola and sufiber are maintained.
Nursery Development
Nursery of plants introduced to the country include Coconut (38 fruiting trees), Papaya (1245 plants), Phalsa
(200 plants), Breadfruit (5555 plants), Roselle herbal tea, Karonda, Badam (100 plants), Moringa, Custard
apple, Soursop, Jungle Jalebi, Tamarind and Tamarind 1500 plantlets in its shed under development.
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Natural Resources
NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION
Natural Resources Division (NRD) has been involved in conducting research on issues related to land, water,
rangelands, agro-forestry and honeybee management for improved and sustainable agricultural production.
During 2016-17 major emphasis was given to enhance the resilience of vulnerable farming communities
through climate smart natural resource management practices, land and water resources management, arid
horticulture, range management and mountainous agriculture.
Impact of Nutrient Coated with Humic Substances (HSs) on Growth and Yield of Groundnut and
Tomato under Field Conditions
Two field demonstrations were conducted to evaluate the role of HSs-based fertilizer product on peanut and
tomato under field conditions on farmers' fields in Gujar Khan (2 sites). The treatment comprised of NPK
recommended practice and NPK coated with HSs. Groundnut dry pod yield increased by 12% over control. In
case of tomato applied HSs based products increased tomato yield by 16% over control and also improved
produce quality as well nutrient concentration.
Enhancing nitrogen use efficiency using humic acid as an organic amendment in light textured soil
Field experiment on wheat was conducted at village HyderabadThal in district Bhakkar for obtaining optimum
yield by enhancing Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) by applying humic acid (HA) as an organic amendment in
light textured soil.
Grain yield was significantly influenced by applied N and HA. Overall the mean highest yields were recorded at
higher levels of applied N, i.e., 120 and 150 kg N ha-1; the yield obtained with these treatments were non-
significant. Across the N treatments the higher applied HA treatments (75, 100, and 125 L ha-1) produced
significantly higher grain yield than lower doses of HA, but the yield within these three treatments HA
statistically similar. Significant interaction between HA and N application indicated a differential response of
wheat crop to applied variable levels.
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Nitrogen use efficiency was also significantly influenced by the application of various applied N and HA doses.
The mean highest NUE was observed with the application of 120 kg N ha-1 and with 50 L HA ha-1 that was
significantly higher than all the HA treatments under . The NUE was statistically at par within the same level of
N treatment where HA was applied @ 75, 100 and 125 L ha-1. The highest NUE was observed in interaction of
75 and 100 L HSs ha-1 and 120 kg N ha-1 that was followed by 50 L HSs ha-1.
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control
control
3
2
60
60
1
0
0.44 0.48 S(%) 0.39 0.43
– CV. NARC Mash -2 – CV. NARC Mash -3
Effect of phosphorus (60mg kg -1 as DAP) in saline soil on sulphur and Na+/K+ ratio in mash beans
Induced salt tolerance in rice and wheat by inoculating with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria
(PGPR) having ACC-deaminase activity strains under saline soil
To induce salt tolerance in rice crop using PGPR having ACC-deaminase activity and its impact on crop growth
and yields under saline soil, a study was conducted using CRD. Inoculated seeds of rice (Cv. BAS-385) with
different strains of rhizobacteria [SBCC (M9), RPR (32), RPR (33), WPS (8) PBS, SBCC (M8) and RPR (41)]
were tested in artificially developed salinity (6 dS m-1). Among different rhizobium strains maximum paddy
yield (10.67 and 10.14 g plant-1) was obtained with WPS (8) PBS and SBCC (M-8) rhizobium strains
respectively under saline conditions. This paddy yield was (25 and 19 % respectively) better than that of control
where no rhizobium strain was applied.
For wheat, saline soil (8 dS m-1) and Rhizobium strains were tested on Cv. NARC-2011. On the basis of grain
yield, the consortia of all strains performed better than sole strain inoculations and were significantly better than
the control. Among three strains, WPS-09 out yielded.
Soil Chemistry
Manual preparation of Single Super Phosphate (SSP) and testing on wheat crop under rain-fed
conditions
To determine the effect of particle size on the availability of P from rock phosphate; three mesh sizes viz.
120,160 and 200 were tested. The reacted roc was analyzed for P content after 25 days curing. To test the
efficiency of prepared SSP on wheat crop, 50 bags of SSP were manually prepared from Hazara rock phosphate
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having 26-28% P2O5 with mesh size of 120-200 and commercial grade sulfuric acid. To evaluate the effect of
prepared SSP, with comparison to DAP and Biozote, an experiment was conducted on 2-hectare area at NARC
Islamabad, during Rabi season.The availability of P2O5 ranged from 13.45 to 14.27% among the treatments of
various particle sizes. The highest availability was recorded where particle size was 200 mesh, followed by 160
mesh, giving 14.27% and 14.21 P2O5 content, respectively. It was concluded from the study that 160 mesh
particle size of rock phosphate is optimal for attaining higher and economical available P in SSP.
digestion were analyzed for total Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Ni concentrations using a graphite furnace atomic
absorption spectrometer (Perkin Elmer Analyst 800). The comparison of the total Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb
concentrations of collected soil samples with the safe limit of WHO/FAO (2001) showed that the
concentrations of all the heavy metals were within the recommended permissible limits (RPL) except Cd.
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district, 73 samples of (each) soil, paddy plants and underground water (used for irrigation) and from
Gujranwala, 67 samples of (each) were collected randomly.
Arsenic concentration of underground water was ranged between 0.01 – 9.62 µg /L in district Hafizabad and
0.03 to 7.743 µg/L in Gujranwala district. Arsenic concentration in all the water samples was below the
permissible limit of 10 µg/L for drinking and 100 µg/L for irrigation.
A good correlation was observed between straw and brown rice and correlation coefficient value were ranged
from 0.55 to 0.65 in Hafizabad and 0.34 to 0.90 in Gujranwala district. Relatively wider ratio was observed in
super basmati and kainat which indicated that straw had higher arsenic content and was less was translocated to
grain in both the districts.
Soil Physics
Effect of green manuring (GM) on soil physical and hydraulic properties under different tillage practices
in wheat
A long term field experiment (3rdyear) is ongoing at NARC, Islamabad to observe the effect of two types of
tillage: 1) Conventional cultivator, and 2) Moldboard plow and two green manuring treatments, 1) without
green manuring, and 2) with green manuring,to assess temporal (short term and long term) changes in soil
physical and hydraulic properties.
Results indicated that green manuring improved soil organic carbon pools. Moldboard ploughing showed
adverse effect on labile carbon pools.
Effect of tillage (cultivation& moldboard) and green manuring on organic carbon fractions and active and
passive organic carbon pool
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Temperature logger Water level sensor
quantification, 11 temperature sensors, and 06 rain-gauges in Shimshal jointly with Pakistan Meteorological
Department (PMD). The installation sites were selected in consultation with national and international
stakeholders. One Automatic Weather Station (AWS) was installed at around 4700 m, one Pluvio at around
4200 m, and other station was installed at 4550 m above sea level (msl). The temperature loggers and tipping
buckets were installed at different elevations ranging from 2500 msl to 4500 msl to account the temperature and
precipitation patterns at different elevations. Similarly, two water level gauges were also installed at feasible
locations. This extensive hydro-meteorological monitoring of glaciers will scientifically address Karakoram
anomaly.
Data logger display Automatic weather station (AWS), installed at Saroba, Chakri
Rawalpindi
Databases development
? Historical climate reference datasets were developed. These dataset have been made public through
internet. An easy-to-use tool has been developed for non-experts to extract climate data from climate
reference set.
? Downscaled future climate dataset of 04 Global Circulation Models (GCMs) and 04 Regional
Circulation Models (RCMs) for precipitation, temperature at 5km X 5km resolution first time in South
Asia and Pakistan.
? Developed future extreme scenario for heat and temperature.
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Uncorrected annual precipitation Corrected annual precipitation
Dataset properties
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germplasm collections at NARC during 2015 from Brazil and Italy. One cladode from each accession wad
handed over to PGRI for germplasm conservation. All the accessions survived under climatic conditions of
Islamabad. These accessions were multiplied and at present we have 60-100 cladodes of each of these
accessions. These will eventually be introduced to the farmer's field in the dry areas.
Agro-Forestry Nursery
Seed of various trees and grass species collected for use e in the Agro-forestry nursery and for NGOs and
progressive farmers. More than 10,000 plants of multipurpose tree species (Ipilipil, Kachnar, Bakian, Toot,
Poplar, Suck chain, Amaltas, Siris, Sohanjna, Pilkan, Daman) were raised in nursery for planting in
experimental areas at NARC, NGOs and progressive farmers.
At AZRI Umarkot, 30,000 nursery plants of multipurpose Tree Species were raised for the area. More than
25,000 plants were planted in 6 villages with community participation (Kerlo Rahimoo, Maroohar Ratnore,
Nasarullah Sand, Noroje Dhani, Mithriyo Charan). Twenty four training sessions arranged and 150 farmers
trained on range management and agro-forestry. Seven new grass species introduced and tested on brackish
water (>2200 ppm) at Umerkot.
HONEYBEE RESEARCH
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Honey Quality Analysis
Two hundred and seventy five honey samples analyzed for physicochemical, sensory and microscopic analysis
to ensure the quality of honey. These samples include 25 general samples from beekeepers or honey companies,
200 PATCO samples, 50 honeybee Research Institute own honey's samples.
Mountainous Horticulture
Cherry
Ten (10) cultivars were collected and orchard of cherry at Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC).
Orchard was managed and data was collected on crown gall resistant and compatibility to different rootstocks
of cherries at Mountain Agricultural Research Center (MARC).Orchard of cherry maxima-60 rootstock (crown
gall resistant) imported from Italy was properly managed. Plants have not yet started flowering and fruiting.
Chilghoza Pine
Installed two plastic tunnels of 100 x 20 and 50 x 20 feet size at MARC, Juglote and at MARS, Gurikot, Astore
for research activities to develop vegetative propagation techniques for Chilghoza pine.
Collected Chilghoza cuttings from 2 sources of bud wood (old & young trees) from an altitude of 2381 m above
sea level from natural forests in District Diamer, GilgitBaltistan. Prepared cuttings from both the bud wood
sources and planted at MARC using different soil Medias and 5 various concentrations of a common plant
growth hormone.
Peach
Nineteen (19) previous cultivars of Peach planted at MARC were maintained properly and fruit data was taken
for different parameters and selected 3 cultivars (Florida King, Fame Crust and Peach A-5) for further
propagation and multiplication.
Collected 7 cultivars of peach and 4 cultivars of nectarine and planted with19 cultivars of peach at MARC for
further selection and comparison with 3 selected cultivars.
Peaches at MARC
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Fish in Mountainous areas Livestock in Mountainous areas
BARDC, Quetta
? Twelve (12) wheat yield trials and seven nurseries comprising one thousand sixty seven (1067)
genotypes were evaluated against, cold, drought and diseases. Out of which one hundred and thirty two
(132) genotypes were selected on the basis of better yield and disease resistance for further testing.
? One thousand one hundred and sixty eight (1168) wheat lines comprising different advance and released
varieties/lines were tested under National Disease Screening Nursery, NWUYT and trap at Quetta and
Sibi.
? Advance wheat yield trials were planted at Sibi (1) and Labella (1), excellent results were obtained from
the trials and better performing genotypes were advanced to yield trials/seed multiplication for further
testing under NUWYT in future.
? Two barley nurseries and five yield trials comprising two hundred thirty (230) genotypes evaluated at
Quetta to select drought tolerant, high yielding and disease resistant barley genotypes. Trials also
included naked barley advance lines which will be further multiplied to develop new naked barley
varieties for cultivation in different regions of the country. Fifty five genotypes were advanced to next
stage for further testing under biotic and abiotic stresses of the province.
? Tested one (1) lentil yield trials at Quetta. Due to cold and drought spell at Quetta only nine genotypes
were selected while majority of the lines were fully or partially damaged by cold and drought.
19
Animal Sciences
ANIMAL HEALTH
The Animal Health program focusesatdetermination of pathogenesis and development of effective diagnostics,
control and management strategies against major trans-boundary animal diseases. During the period under
report, most of the research activities aimed at studying the pathogenesis and pathogen characterization,
diagnosis and control of trans-boundary viral pathogens (foot-and-mouth disease, paste des petitesruminants)
and surveillance of selected zoonotic diseases(Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, brucellosis and Shiga toxin-
producing E. coli). This program has also been a hub for activities related to the Department of Animal
Genomics and Biotechnology under the degree awarding institution of PIASA at NARC.
This year two Farmer days were organized in Salmiya district Hatian, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and
Garhi Habib Ullah, district Mansehra, Khyber PakhtunKhwa (KPK), while 01 National seminar on PPR
eradication was conducted.
Twelve suspected PPR outbreaks were investigated all over the country. The outbreaks were confirmed by
haemagglutination test (HA), Ic-ELISA, cELISA and RT- PCR. PPR outbreak control measures were
implemented and demonstrated to field veterinary staff of the area.
A total of 70,000 lambs, kids and newly introduced animals were vaccinated against PPR in each of the target
tehsils and 80,000 sheep and goats were vaccinated in surrounding tehsils of the project target areas for
immuno-sterilization.
Sixteen isolates of PPRV were partially sequenced targeting nucleo-capsid gene (N gene).
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ESTABLISHMENT OF PARC VETERINARY CLINIC
A veterinary clinic has been established at NARC and staff recruited for functioning of the clinic. In this clinic,
more than 2100 animals of different species were treated and 15000 animals were vaccinated for various
livestock diseases.
The increasing interaction between humans and animals leads to the emergence and re-emergence of infectious
diseases especially zoonotic diseases which are transmissible from animals and wild life to humans and vice
versa. The countries that have a national plan for the control of specific zoonotic diseases based on the available
resources and strategies are able to eradicate many such diseases. In spite of the progress achieved, the diseases
like tuberculosis, Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF), Leishmaniasis, brucellosis, Shiga toxin-
producing E. coli and rabies still constitute a threat to human health and welfare particularly in Asian region
including Pakistan.
Brucellosis was studied at human animal interface in Rawalpindi/Islamabad. In this regard, a total of 1732
blood samples were collected from small ruminants of selected areas of district Rawalpindi and ICT. An overall
brucellosis prevalence of 5.7% was observed in goat and sheep population of both localities.
At human animal interface, a sero-prevalence of brucellosis was 31.4% in risk group (farmers, veterinarians)
and 3.5% in general public.
Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a major viral zoonosis prevalent in Pakistan. The virus is
reservoired in tick vectors which spend a significant part of their hematophagous life cycle on domesticated
animals, during which CCHF virus can be transmitted. CCHFV can also be transmitted to humans during the
slaughter of viremic animals and directly from the bite of infected ticks. Both are important transmission routes
of virus to humans and a case fatality rate (CFR) of up to 40% is common. NARC Animal Sciences lab have
standardized protocols to detect IgG. The overall prevalence of CCHF in small ruminants is about 9%.
This program focuses research mainly on nutritive evaluation of feedstuffs, feeding systems, economical feed
development, development of nutritional technologies for efficient livestock production, feedlot fattening for
meat production and fodder production and its conservation for livestock, and feed safety issues.
In ruminant's diet plant protein sources are being used 15-20% in fattening and dairy rations, including oilseed
cakes/meals, by-products of food production, and forage legumes but these are more expensive than other
ingredients of compound feed.
In a comparative study Calves fed Maize Gluten Feed containing diet got significantly higher (23 and 18%)
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weight gain compared to calves fed by Rapeseed Cake(RSC) and Cotton Seed Cake (CSC) diets, respectively.
Similarly, better (P<0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in MGF (5.51) supplemented calves
followed by RSC (6.46) and CSC (6.53) diets. This may be due to higher energy and rumen un-degradable
protein content of MGF as compared to CSC and RSC. The feed cost per kg gain with MGF was markedly lower
(27 and 19%) than feed containing RSC and CSC. It is concluded from the results that calves fed maize silage as
basal diet supplemented with concentrate containing MGF had positive effects on weight gain, FCR and feed
cost when compared with calves fed CSC and RSC based concentrates.
Angora breed is well known for finest and the longest white silky wool production amongst other wool
producing animal breeds. An experiment was conducted at LRS, NARC to compare growth performance,
nutrient digestibility and wool production and quality of growing Angora rabbits as influenced by different
levels of soybean meal supplementation. It was found that the Wool production was almost double in
concentrate supplemented groups than non-supplemented group. Among supplemented groups, rabbits fed
with concentrate having 15% soybean resulted in significantly more wool production with good quality than 5
and 10% soybean supplemented groups.
This study aimed at analyzing the available amino acid content of the different varieties and qualities of grains,
grain byproducts, oilseed meals, and animal meals used in poultry feed formulation. For this purpose, the team
of the NARC is working in close collaboration of the feed millers of Pakistan.
Under this project, a laboratory for amino acid analyses has been set up. Necessary equipment has been
purchased and selection of ingredients in collaboration of the industry has been completed. Analytical activities
are expected to be completed by Dec 2017.
The main focus of the program is to improve reproductive efficiency and genetic potential of food animals. In
this regard, the controlled breeding programs facilitate artificial insemination (AI), which is the major
reproductive tool for genetic up gradation of local breeds. Buffalo and cow are both important dual purpose
(milk and meat) animals of Pakistan.
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reproductive efficiency of non-descript cows during peak breeding season. The results are presented in Table
1.CIDR-based estrus synchronization protocols improves conception rate (64%)in non-descript cows during
peak breeding season.
Cross-bred F 1 Progeny
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Preparation of dairy products for sale at PATCO sale point
Yogurt was prepared in small batches of 25 L/day using conventional utensils. During the current financial year
5787cups of 800 g and 425 cups of 400 g plain yogurt were prepared. In addition 87 cups of 200 g yogurt were
also prepared. The total sale proceeds were approximately equal to Rs 0.72 million.
Building for aqua feed mill (External View)Building for aqua feed mill (External View)
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Seed production of American Channel catfish
The fingerlings (1000 fish) of American Channel catfish were stocked and fed for brood stock development of
American Channel catfish. Sorting of shooters fish was done for development of brood stock fish.
Breeding of fully matured and developed pairs of American Channel catfish was achieved. For improving the
reproductive performance of brooders, effect of different feed additives on reproductive performance of
American channel catfish was studied. Initially, effects of vitamin C and E on reproductive performance
wereinvestigated.
It was concluded from the study that supplementation of these vitamins significantly increase the gonadal
maturation and gamete production of American channel catfishmale andfemale brooders. Vitamin C and E were
found to increase GSI, milt volume, sperm motility and sperm concentration in male brooders. In case of
females, the vitamins significantly increased GSI, ovarian weight fecundity and relative fecundity.
Fry of catfish
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Development of Open Nucleus Breeding Scheme for Nili Buffalo and Sahiwal Cows at LRS
A project was initiated to develop an open nucleus herd at LRS. In this regard, a group of 20 Nili/ Nili-Ravi
buffaloes and 10 Sahiwal cows were purchased and the animals were housed at LRS for production
performance recording and monitoring for future selection and propagation. All buffaloes have calved for
second time at LRS. Out of 9 Sahiwal cows, 8have calved for second time. The average daily milk yield ranges
from 6 litre to 9 litres per day based on lactation stage. Blood samples for 3 target genes related to milk yield and
quality were collected, processed and results are given below:
The animals of Nili Ravi buffaloes were found to be monomorphic for k-CN BB genotype, while
polymorphism was found in Sahiwal cattle in the form of AA and AB genotypes, the frequency of allele A was
higher than B allele. No BB genotype was detected in Sahiwal cattle possibly because of very low frequency of
this genotype in cattle breed of Bosindicus type. Owing to their relationship to a higher protein and cheese yield,
it is desirable to have increased k-CN allele B and genotype BB frequencies in dairy herd. This can be achieved
by selecting animals with the k-CN AB genotype and crossing them with one another so as to get more BB
genotype progeny.
Buffaloes were found homozygous for â-Lactoglobulin (â-LG) genotypes BB. While in cattle genotypes AB
and BB were found. Frequency of allele B was higher in cattle breeds than allele A.
Nili Ravi buffaloes and Sahiwal cattle were found to be homozygous for allele A of Leptingene. B allele of k-
CN and â-LG milk proteins while A allele of Leptin were recognized as superior for milk production traits in the
literature and were also found to be high in the studied population of Nili Ravi buffaloes and Sahiwal cattle.
The National Reference Lab for Poultry Diseases is recognized as an apex Lab for Avian Disease Diagnosis at
national as well as International level. The laboratory is also designated as Regional Leading Diagnostic
Laboratory (RLDL) for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) for SAARC countries by FAO of United
Nations. The laboratory has been internationally accredited for ISO/IEC 17025:2005 by Pakistan National
Accreditation Council (PNAC), Islamabad.
Development and validation of diagnostic techniques for monitoring of novel emerging Highly
Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N8:
Salient achievements:
? Diagnostics (molecular and serological) were standardized for the AIV H5N8
? For surveillance, approximately 171 poultry farms/LBM were screened for presence of AIV-H5N8.
? 28 poultry farms, 6 house hold backyard and 14 LBM shops with high mortality and suspected for AIV
H5N8 were specially screened through isolation HI, ELISA and molecular tests (RT-PCR and real-time
26
RT-PCR).
?1162 samples (711 tissues and 451 swabs) were received and subjected to isolation or identification of
AIV H5N8 through Virus Isolation and RT/real-time RT-PCR
?1316 serum samples received and serologically analysed out which some samples were positive for
seroconversion against AIVH5.
?Seroconversion against AIV H5 was recorded in some areas.
?No isolation or identification of AIV H5 was recorded.
?The lab strived to achieve Bird Flu-free status of Pakistan since July 2008 which still remains valid at
international level.
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Social Sciences
The Social Sciences Division is one of the four technical Divisions of PARC. The SSD has its satellite research
institutes at provincial and federal levels and one each at AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan. The main objective of these
research institutes was to carry out research on socio economic aspect at grass root level of farmers. The other
objective is to deal with necessary information for policy formulation and reforms. During the financial year
2016-17, the SSRIs worked on over 20 research studies falling in various research themes of the Division. Some
of these are finalized while the others are at various stages of their execution. In the following paragraphs, some
of the completed studies with their respective themes are briefly described.
Market Linkages for Value added Products of Dates and Banana: Post-Harvest Management and Value
Addition of Fruits in Production Catchments of SAARC Countries (Pakistan Component)
Processing and value addition of fruits is long desired concept implemented in SAARC countries through a
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project titled “Post-harvest Management and value addition of fruits in production catchments in SAARC
Countries” by PARC is part of the implementation with selection of dates and banana as fruit catchments. Social
Sciences Research Institute (SSRI) NARC was mandated to conduct market linkages analysis of value added
products. SSRI, NARC staff conducted a study and tried to develop a value chain model to support the
economic activities that reduces post-harvest losses and leading to better opportunities and returns to the
producers in various Village Organizations (VOs) in particular and growers in general. The existing and
potential supply chain actors were identified and invited in the market linkages workshop organized in the
facility established under the project. The traditional marketing systems were consisted of few commission
agents control marketing with long chain of market intermediaries. Lack of cold chain facilities bounds the
farmers to sell banana immediately after harvest often results in low return to the growers. The survey results
revealed that there are large seasonal fluctuations in supply and prices of banana in the project area making
farmers' incomes low and instable. By adopting value added technology introduced by the project, the banana
grower shall have other marketing options like supplying to the processor or own processing leads to better
returns and reduced price fluctuations. The survey revealed that demand for snack foods is increasing.
Examining marketing system of the food snakes unveiled that some local manufacturers work without
distributors and supply to retailers and wholesalers directly. Initially it is economical to focus on local sale
channels by using VOs platforms. Collective marketing by VO through a representative yield better results and
return. Local dates processors and retailers at nearby project area become a market for banana value added
products. It seems difficult to engage modern retail chains at the initial stage due to scale constraints, lack of
marketing experience of the VOs. It is most appropriate that the link established in the marketing workshop
should be strengthen through good business relations consistent supply and maintained quality of the products.
School and college canteens are another option for marketing of value added products i.e. banana chips. There is
one option of selling the value added products at local festivals. To tap into the opportunities and to address the
challenges in a systematic manner it is essential to work jointly with various stakeholders including government
departments, the private sector and the operators of this particular value chain. The value chain development
model for value added products conceptualized in the market linkages study it is hope that transforming
traditional farming and marketing system into direct linking farmers to modern retail sector should have
significant impact and benefits on the production catchments. There is need to provide timely and proper
technical backup to the village organizations to maintain the quality and supply of the value added products. To
increase the products acceptance there is need to introduce many flavors in banana chips like sweet and salty
etc. Promoting the consumption of banana value added products (advertising, packing sizes, designs, flavors,
nutrition information, manufacturing and expiry dates, etc.) as healthy food along with maintain its quality is
also needed. Intensify sales.
29
village's life. According to rural youth financial capital followed by physical capitals are important for opting
future livelihood strategies as 67.2 and 18.6 percent of the respondents respectively reported these capitals key
for the future livelihood.
Among jobless rural youth, first option for future livelihood activities in priority order was: government job as
first priority (43%) followed by own business (19.2%), going abroad (15.8%), private job (12.5%) and farming
(6%). These statistics shows the discouraging trend of rural youth towards agriculture as their future profession
for livelihood. Regarding second priority, the priority order was: own-business followed by going abroad,
private job, agriculture and livestock farming. Again, agriculture/livestock farming falls a lowest position in
their 2nd priority options.
Probing on the underlying factors revealed that majority (71.8 %) considers their own perceptions for selecting
future livelihood followed by discussion with relatives and success stories of the villagers, respectively. The
future plans of majority of the respondents (94.20%) were in line with their parents' desiresand remaining were
different from their families. In ranking analysis, government job stood at 1st position followed by own
business/shopkeeper in 2ndorder in the priority, going abroad as 3rd and private job in industrial sector as 4th.
Agriculture and livestock farming came at last in ranking. In conclusion, rural youth is least in farming as future
livelihood option.
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productivity. USDA sponsored a project on “Soil Fertility and Soil Health in Pakistan” executed by ICARDA's
Pakistan office through various institutions in Pakistan. Under this project Land Resources Research Institute,
NARC promoted the use of Biozote for increasing wheat, rice and groundnut yield. Biozote enhances soil
productivity though fixing atmospheric nitrogen, Solubilizing phosphorous, controlling root pathogen and
synthesizing plant growth promoting substances. Similarly, Soil Fertility Research Institute (SFRI), Lahore
campaigned on using micro-nutrients in citrus orchards and vegetables grown in tunnels. Agricultural &
Biological Engineering Institute (ABEI), NARC manufactures and promoted the use of Pak Seeder to manage
the rice residues after its mechanical harvest and to plant wheat by zero-tillage drill. Social Sciences Research
Institute (SSRI), NARC provided feedback on these technologies demonstrated under the project by
conducting economic viability and diffusion potential analyses. Micronutrient technology for citrus orchards
was demonstrated at six sites (4 in Sargodha; 2 in Toba Tek Singh) in the year 2015-16. Use of the technology
was demonstrated at 13 vegetable farms (5 chilies farmers in Sheikhupura and Gujranwala, 3 cucumber farmers
in Sheikhupura, Gujranwala and Sahiwal, 3 bell paper farmers in Okara and 2 bottle gourd growers in
Gujranwala) in year 2014-15 and 2015-16. Use of Biozote for wheat crop was demonstrated at 20 sites (10 in
Chakwal and 10 in rice-wheat zone). In citrus orchards, Zinc, Iron and Boron were applied as micro nutrients to
the soil at the rate of 100, 75 and 25 grams per tree before flowering i.e. in February-March. In vegetables, Zinc,
Copper, Iron and Boron were applied at the rate of12.5, 3.75, 2.5 and 2.5 kg per hectare, respectively.In citrus,
there was thirteen percent increase in fruit production per tree attributed to better fruit setting, more number of
fruits per tree(from 550 to 619) and hence more fruit yield per tree (80kg to 92 kg). Improved quality of produce
also led 10 percent increase in fruit price.The use of one kg micro-nutrients resulted into a partial benefit-cost of
5.71. Similarly, very encouraging results were obtained for micro-nutrients use in chilies, cucumber, bottle
gourd, bell paper production.
Use of Biozote was demonstrated under irrigated conditions in Chakwal district and rice-wheat zone of Punjab.
Average wheat yield on demonstrated farms with and without using Biozote was 4.61 and 5.11 tons/ha --- an
increase of 0.5 tons/ha. Cost of Biozote application per hectare was only Rs.1556 per hectare leading to an
increase of gross revenues by Rs.14375 (provided that the soil has sufficient amount of organic matter). There is
a need for wider dissemination and demonstration of economically viable technologies like micro-nutrients and
biozote for their rapid adoption. However, Biozote is a fragile product and requires cold chain to maintain its
viability during transport and marketing, which may make it little more costly for existing inputs dealers.
Further research work on the diffusion potential and economic viability of Biozote and micro-nutrients
marketing system is needed as ex-ante exercise
31
NGOs, students, development organizations and general public through agricultural extension activities, i.e.,
trainings. Agricultural exhibitions, exposure/study visits and field days. API also provides research and
internship opportunities to the students of different universities of Pakistan. Students are placed in different
programs at NARC related to their subject and work on specific problems. They submit a technical report at the
end of their research and internship period. Solution oriented collaboration and coordination of API with
farmers and other organizations working in rural areas provide a feedback system for agriculture researchers
and extension workers.
Achievements
a) Need Based Trainings and Workshops Organized
To arrange trainings and workshops is one of the main activities of API. Every year, on the request of various
donning agencies, several need-based trainings and workshops are arranged on different areas of agriculture
and livestock. These training and workshops help update knowledge of different stakeholders about the latest
advances being made in the field of agriculture and livestock. 29 trainings and workshops were arranged on
different issues of agriculture and livestock management during the year 2016-17.
b) Skill DevelopmentProjects
In addition to arrangement of the above given trainings and workshops, the following training projects were
also runat APIto train and update knowledge of different clientele groups:
? Capacity Development of Agriculture Extension Services in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province (JICA-
PSDP Project)
? Skill Development of the Farmers of Balochistan (SDFB)
PARC Website
PARC Website (www.parc.gov.pk) developed in 1998 and formally inaugurated in August 2000 is being
maintained and updated regularly. The major contents of website includes: Functions, Research Divisions,
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Research Establishments, Research Institutes, Research Coordination, Agricultural Maps, Publications,
Information Services, Announcements, PARC Databases, Senior Staff, Related Sites, On-line Journals, Guest
Book, Urdu Section, Agro-forum, Organizational Chart, News and Events, PIASA, ALP, RADP, PATCO etc.
Website is regularly updated based on the information provided by different Centres, Institutes, Directorates
and Programs of PARC. New information is uploaded in the form of web pages. Information in “News and
Events”, Announcements, Jobs, Tenders, Picture Gallery, and Popular Articles was uploaded on daily basis
while Databases are updated on quarterly basis. During 2017-2018 information from almost all
centres/institutes/programs was collected and updated on the website besides updating Telephone and E-mail
Directories. PARC new proformas, seniority lists and BOG minutes of the meetings, News Flash, Tenders,
Announcements, Image Flicker, Photo Gallery Jobs and Auctions were regularly updated. Three new Modules
“Interviews of Chairman, PARC”, 140th Birthday of Quaid-e-Azam and “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
Herbarium” were created. Redesigning of PARC Website using latest tools and techniques for making it
dynamic and user's friendly is under process.
NARC Library
109 new books/documents and 276 journal issues were added to library stock. Library has started building
digital collections and during the year, 486 books/documents were added in digital library. 118 requests for
literature search received throughout Pakistan were entertained and 13,574 abstracts/ references supplied.
Photographic Services
DSI is also providing scientific and functional photographic services to the scientists and managers of
PARC/NARC and its establishments. Photographs are prepared for field/lab experiments and important
events. This also includes coverage of seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, visits, etc. 6,837
photographs were prepared and 123 events were covered during the year 2016-2017.
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Union Database of Journals scientific and functional photographic
34
Agricultural Engineering
The division's main thrust remained to design, develop, adapt and promote energy-efficient precision
agricultural machinery with a particular focus on introduction of energy-efficient farm mechanization
technologies for cereal, fruits, vegetables and other crops. Division is also playing an important role of
coordination among the stakeholders related with promotion of agricultural mechanization in the country. The
division is also exploring and utilizing solar thermal energy for drying of dates and banana value addition in
production catchment areas of Sindh and Balochistan besides providing technical inputs for development of
National Standards for agricultural tractors & machinery and establishing facilities for testing of agricultural
machinery.
Sugarcane Crusher
For implementing the decision of 37th BOG meeting of PARC, a new six-roller farm level sugarcane crusher
was designed and developed by ABEI under RADP project. The newly developed six-roller sugarcane crusher
was tested and evaluated at farmer's field in Swabi areas during February 2017 with an encouraging
performance. The sugarcane crusher was operated by a 30-HP diesel engine. It is a trolley mounted mobile unit
for ease of operation in the field.
The technology was demonstrated to scientists, farmers, sugarcane growers, manufactures at ABEI, NARC.
The Honorable Federal Minister for Ministry of National Food Security and Research, Sardar Sikandar Hayat
Khan Bosan was the Chief Guest at this event. More than 100 participants including scientists, farmers,
manufacturers and other stakeholders participated in this special event of demonstration of new version of
sugarcane crusher.
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Pak seeder in field operation.
The issue behind developing this technology was that of the small turnaround time between paddy harvesting
and wheat sowing and high cost of wheat drilling. The Figure showed the Pak Seeder in field operation at
farmers' field. Some key advantages of using this technology include:
Timely sowing of wheat; line sowing increases yield; higher seed germination (19%) in heavy mulched fields as
compared with the broadcast method as the temperature remains moderate at night under heavy residue. The
population of weed was less than 5% per square meter as compared with 23% in farmers' practiced method. The
average yield was 480 kg/acre higher than the farmers' practice.Net saving is Rs.2000/acre besides saving in
irrigation water and reduction in environmental pollution.
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Field testing and performance evaluation of prototype wood chipper shredder unit at NARC
BIO-WASTE FURNACE
PARC has designed and developed a low-cost, energy-efficient and economical bio-waste furnace for thermal
application in Agriculture (Figure 8). Wood, wood chips, coal, corn cobs, cotton stalks, forest wastes, solid
waste and animal waste may be used as feeding material. This furnace is suitable for drying of grain, fruit,
vegetables and green house heating. It maintains temperature between 0-1000 oC its fuel loading capacity is 50
kg/batch for about 5-6 hours. Its power requirement is 1 HP (fan + blower). The efficiency of this furnace is 55%
and its cost of operation is Rs. 100/h.
A SAARC Development Funded project entitled as 'Post-Harvest Management and Value Addition of Fruits in
Production Catchments in SAARC Countries: Pakistan Component' is being implemented by the Directorate of
Post-harvest and Food Engineering, Agricultural Engineering Division, Pakistan Agricultural Research
Council, Islamabad at Khairpur and Sukkur districts which are famous for date and banana production in
Pakistan.
Honorable Federal Minister NFS&R witnessing performance of solar-cum-gas fired dates dryer and
solar tunnel dates dryer at Pir Jo Goth, Khairpur, Sindh
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Glimpses of demonstration of solar dates dryers in districts Sukkur/Kahirpur
38
Sukkur. Out of twenty VOs, fifteen were selected on the basis of their previous work and their interest in
participating in this innovative work.
Three VOs were selected for the installation of solar-cum-gas fired date dryers and twelve (12) VOs for solar
tunnel dates dryers. Before the installation of solar dryers, an agreement was signed between PARC and each
village organization. According to this agreement, these solar dryers will be installed at the premises of village
organizations, but PARC engineers will assist them in operation and maintenance till the project life, and every
member of VO can use these systems. The approval of agreement contents was taken from SDF and PARC
management.
The 3rd Inception Workshop and Agreement Signing Ceremony was held at AZRI Technology Field Station,
Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur Mir's on 31st January, 2017 and PARC signed fifteen agreements with
the VOs. Figure 12 present snaps captured on this occasion.
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banana value added products (chip and fig) were organized at three banana value addition facilities (Kumb, Pir
Jo Goth and Tehrhi) from 20 – 22 February, 2017.
40
Planning and Development
The functions and activities of the Planning and Development Division stretch across three directorates i.e;
Competitive Grants and MOU Projects; Public Sector Development Program and Planning, Monitoring and
Evaluation. All the three directorates have distinct functions and responsibilities for which they strive to make
tangible outputs. The progress on each of these is explained in the proceeding sections.
Directorate of Competitive Grants and MoUProjects (CG&MoU)
The Directorate of Competitive Grants and MOU Projects (CG & MOU) is responsible for operation of
Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP) and appraisal/ processing of projects funding under memorandum of
understanding:
Activities
? Priority setting, invitation and processing of competitive grants and MoU projects for approval
? Processing of technical and financial reports of competitive grants projects.
? Arrange monitoring, review and evaluation of competitive grants projects and compile the technical and
financial reports;
? Undertaking project completion formalities (collection of financial, technical and final reports, arrange
audits, final budget settlement and transfer of equipments).
Tangible Objectives
?Processing of detail project proposals under 7th batch of ALP for approval of Technical Advisory
Committee and Board of Directors of ALP.
?Signing of project implementation agreement and initiation of 7th batch projects
?Priority setting of 8th batch.
?Invitation of proposals – announcement
?Short listing of proposal through appraisal committees
?Formulation of detail projects and appraisal
?Processing of projects for approval
?Monitoring and review/ evaluation of ongoing projects
?Completion formalities of ALP completed projects
?Arrange TAC and BOD meetings (agenda and working papers, minutes and follow-up actions)
?Preparation of reports and relevant information
?Inception workshop for PIs of newly approved ALP projects to inform PIs about administrative and
financial matter i.e. opening of project bank account, release and utilization of funds, record
maintenance, financial and technical progress reports format and schedule for submission etc.
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Realistic Targets
? The ongoing ALP projects will be completed hopefully to contribute in agricultural productivity and
provide base for further research on various issues.
? Meetings of TAC and BOD will be arranged each year for approval of projects and other policy issues
? Follow-up actions for finalization of completion formalities of completed projects.
? Efforts will continue to include the institutes of NARS in the program and further improve linkages in
relevant activities.
42
CDWP Meetings
The new project titled “Strengthening/Up-gradation of Agriculture and Livestock Research System of Arid
Zone Research Institute, Umerkot- Sindh” was considered in Pre-CDWP meeting chaired by the Secretary M/o,
Planning Development & Reform. It was decided that Govt. of Sindh may be taken on board with their request
to strengthen the institute. The present research institute may be strengthened to cater the needs of the area.
Allied research stations were not supported. The PI was advised to modify the PC-I as per decision of CDWP
meeting.
Following on-going/revised projects were considered in Pre-CDWP meeting:
? National Pesticide Residues Monitoring System in Pakistan
? Up-Gradation of Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) D.I. Khan to the Level of Arid Zone Research
Centre (AZRC) and Establishment of New Adaptive Research Cum Demonstration Institutes at WANA
(SWA), Miranshah (NWA), FATA, Tank and Matora, LakkiMarwat – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
? Agriculture Information Portal
? National Pesticide Residues Monitoring System in Pakistan
? Promotion of Olive Cultivation on Commercial Scale in Pakistan
As decided by Pre-CDWP meeting, the reply of observations was submitted for necessary improvement and
proper justification of revision. All the meetings of DDWP/CDWP were attended along with D.G. (P&D
Division) and Chairman PARC with all requisite information for presenting/defending the projects of PARC at
agenda of DDWP/CDWP meetings.
43
competent forum i.e. DDWP/CDWP. The three (3) projects of Balochistan were approved by DDWP and all
other projects were deferred with some observations.
Salient Achievements
PARC Five Years Business Plan 2013-18:
i. Planning Activities
?Developed Indicators for Monitoring & Evaluation of“ Enhancing Production Base of Agriculture
Sector”for onward submission to M/o NFS&R
?A consolidated report regarding government Mid-Term Performance review of P&DD, PARC is
prepared.
?Prepared comments and gave feedback on National Assembly and Senate questions for onward
submission to the concerned quarters.
?Planned and conducted in house review of 12 ALP (PSD, NRD, ASD and AED)on - going projects. The
minutes of the review meetings were prepared and circulated to the Principals investigators for
compliance.
?Developed Annual Progress Report and presentation for 40th BOG regarding P&DD.
?Prepared and submitted Working paper for meeting of Federal Committee on Agriculture (FCA) for
Kharif season (2016-17) regarding Research & Development Plans.
?Developed TORs Modus Operandi for the external review of RADP project by third party. The same has
been approved by the Chairman, PARC and forward to concerned quarter for further necessary action.
?Case for pending liabilities/salaries of NARS-B project employees prepared and processed for the
approval of Chairman, PARC. Decision conveyed to ex-PD, NARS-B.
?Compiled and prepared material for inclusion in the PARC year book for 2015-16 in respect of P&D Div.,
44
PARC.
?Compiled and prepared a brief and consolidated Annual activities report in respect of Planning &
Development Division, PARC for the year 2015-16.
45
AftabIkram, Director (Works), PARC)
?Capacity Development of Agriculture Extension Services in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa(Dr. Khalid Farooq,
PSO, API, NARC)
?Development of clean and true to type fruit plant Nurseries at National level(Dr. Khalid
MehmoodQureshi,CSO/Sr. Dir. (Horticulture),NARC)
?Aquafeed Production in Pakistan for Commercially Important Cultureable Fishes (Dr. M. Ramzan Ali,
PSO (Fisheries), NARC)
?Monosex (All Male) Tilapia Seed Production and Culture in Pakistan( Dr. RehanaKousar, SSO,
Fisheries), NARC)
Additional Assignments
? A number of additional assignments have been completed by PM&E Directorate. These include
preparation of discussion papers, presentations and reports on important issues, examination of MoUs ,
technical proposals & presentations. Arrange/ attend meetings, Seminars etc .Preparation of various
progress reports of P&DD(Annual, three years, BOG etc).
46
-Development of Dr. Ather Abbas Rs.97.400 m 03Proposals
Pathogenic Virus SSO (NRLPD) ASI NARC have been
Vaccine against Food submitted
Animals using M/o Science
Recombinant DNA and &Technology
Nano Technology for approval
on 7 th April
-Cryoconservation of Syed Murtaza Hassan Rs24.790 m 2017 and
yak (Bosgrunniens) Andarabi
spermatozoa and PSO,ASI NARC
introduction of
artificial insemination
technology
5. Technical and Dr. Khalid Farooq Director Italian Rs.2306.700 (Revised PC -
Vocational Training in API,NARC Government m 1 submitted
agriculture evaluation to M/O
in horticulture Sector NFS&R for
approval)
6. Skill Development of Dr. Khalid Farooq Director FATA 3.825 26/5/2017 to
youngster from FATA API,NARC development million 26/8/2017
as a livestock and farm Authority
manager
7. Research Collaboration Dr. Munir Ahmad ICARDA Rs. 7.823 m 1/1/2017
Agreement for Director CAEWRI to
diffusion and adoption 30/3/2017
through partnership and
action of best watershed
rehabilitation and Dr. Abid Hussain, SSO, Rs.9.870 m
irrigation practices and SSRI
technologies to help
rural farmers
8. Improving skills for Dr. Ghani Akbar APN Rs. 5.25 2017-2019
promoting sustainable SSO, CAEWRI,NARC million
watershed management
practices in south Asia
9. Improved Mungbean Dr. Shahid Riaz Malik World $119510 In process of
Harvesting and Seed SSO. Pulses Program Vegetable approval
Production systems for CSI,NARC
Bangladesh, Myanmar
and Pakistan
10. Agricultural Science Dr. M Ishaq AFPRI Rs. 5.24 15/3/2017
Technology Indicators PSO, SSD, PARC million to
31/12/2018
11. Prime Minister Youth Dr.Kalid Farooq NAVTTC Rs.6.57 19/6/2017
Skill Development Director API, NARC million to
Program Phase III 19/9/2017
Batch. 2
12. Increasing the Adoption Dr. Shahid Riaz Malik DFID US$8000 In process of
of improved Mungbean SSO. Pulses Program ACIAR approval
production practices CSI,NARC
mechanical harvesting
in Pakistan
13. Investigation on the Dr. Agha Waqar USPCAS -AFS RS. 3.500 m 3/7/2017
dynamics of Aflatoxin SSO, ASI, NARC University of to
development in cotton Faisalabad 3/7/2020
seed cake
14. Collection of Crop Dr. Shakeel Ahmad Global Crop 9.58 million 2016-2017
Wild Relatives in the PSO, PGRI, NARC Diversity
Genepool of 18 Crops Germany
in Pakistan through
ICARDA
47
15. Baseline survey of the Dr. Arsha d Bashir PARB RS. 3.240 2017-2018
basmati rice value chain PSO, SSRI, Faisalabad
in Punjab
16. Dissemination Dr. Arshid USDA through Rs.3.000 m 2017-2018
Diffusion and Adoption Director, LRRI, NARC ICARDA
of the Best Soil Fertilit y
and Soil Health
Management Practices
and Technologies for
the Farmers of Pakistan
(Phase-II)”
17. Dissemination Mr. Waqar Akhtar USDA through Rs.5.000 m 2017-2018
Diffusion and Adoption SSO, SSRI, NARC ICARDA
of the Best Soil Fertility
and Soil Health
Management Practices
and Technologies for
the Farmers of Pakistan
(Phase-II)”
18. Development of thermo Dr. Aamir Bin Zahoor International 100,000 2017-2019
stable vaccine for PSO/PI Animal Health, Veterinary UK pound
control of Peste Des Vaccinology
ASI, NARC
Petetits Ruminant Virus Network
infection (IVVN), UK
19. Identification of the Mr. Naveed Mustafa Asian Pacific Rs. 1.400 m 2017-2019
Best Agricultural SSO, CAEWRI, NARC Network
Management Practices through
with Better Greenhouse University of
House Gas (GHC) Colombo, Sri
Benefits in Salinity Linka
Affec ted Areas of
South Asia (APN No.
CRRP-2015-SG-01-
Lokupitiya)
20. Dissemination Engr. Shabbir Ahmad USDA through Rs.2.500 m 2017-2018
Diffusion and Adoption Kalwar ICARDA
of the Best Soil Fertility Principal Engineer, ABEI,
and Soil Health NARC, Islamabad
Management Practices
and Technologies for
the Farmers of Pakistan
(Phase-II)”
21. Research-Policy Dr. Bashir Ahmad PSO/PL, (IDRC) Rs. 1.000 m 2017-2018
Engagement and CAEWRI, NAR C through
Research into Use Sustainable
(RiU) Development
Policy Institute
(SDPI)
22. Assessment of Street Dr. Saeeda Raza Food and Rs. 1.690 m 2017-2018
Food Safety Situation PSO/Director, Food Science Agriculture
in MCI & Product Development Organization
Institute (FSPDI), NARC (FAO) of the
United Nations
48
Coordination and Monitoring
Directorate of International Cooperation
The Directorate has a mandate to identify the common interest partners in many friendly countries like
Argentine, Afghanistan, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Bulgaria, China, Germany,
Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman,
Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, UAE, USA,
Uzbekistan, Yemen, and United Nations/Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research
(CGIAR)/US based agricultural research agencies in consultation with Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Economic
Affairs Division, Ministry of Climate Change and M/o National Food Security & Research. During the period
under review, this Directorate has prepared brief & talking points for meetings related to the agricultural
research & development, of the Federal Minister, National Food Security & Research (NFS&R), and higher
government officials with foreign ambassadors and delegates of above mentioned countries.
Other Events
Baluchistan Farmer's Event and Baluchistan Livestock Farmer's conference was organized in collaboration
with FAO & Govt. of Baluchistan. Both the events were chaired jointly by Federal Minister MNFS&R and CM,
Baluchistan. High level PARC officials attended the events and delivered their inputs for the uplift of
agriculture and livestock sectors of Baluchistan.
49
Budget of PARC
Highlights
The funds of the Council consist of the following as per article 18 of PARC Ordinance:
? Grants made by the Federal government and the Provincial governments.
? Grants, donations, endowments, contributions, aid and assistance given by other organizations.
? Foreign aid and loans obtained or raised with the approval of the Federal Government.
? Receipts from other sources.
? The annual accounts of the Council are audited by independent Chartered Accountants as well as the
Auditor General of Pakistan under the PARC Ordinance 1981.
Current Expenditure
(Rs. in million)
Objects 2015-16 2016-17
Actual Budget R.B.
Establishment Expenses 2302.200 2331.095 2638.095
Operational Expenses 317.624 326.905 351.905
Total : 2519.824 2658.000 2990.000
On-Going Projects
(Rs. in million)
Revised
Sl. Approval Total Budget
Title of the Projects Budget 2016 -
No. Date/Forum Cost 2016-17
17
Research for Agricultural Development ECNEC
1 2963.000 200.000
Program 07-03-2007
Indigenization of Hybrid Seed Production CDWP
2 665.313 50.000
for Enhanced Production of Crops 20-05-2010
Pak-China Cooperation for Agricultural CDWP
3 255.712 30.000
Research and Development (Phase -1) 30-04-2009
Establishment of Horticulture Research DDWP
4 53.391 20.000
Institute Khuzdar, Balochistan 16-01-2012
Establishment of Livestock Research DDWP
5 58.725 26.444
Institute LRI at Turbat, Balochistan 16-01-2012
Strengthening of Coastal Agriculture DDWP
6 51.740 9.592
Research Station Bahwani, Balochistan 16-01-2012
Rehabilitation and Strengthening of
DDWP
7 Summer Agricultural Research Station of 33.119 5.000
19-09-2013
PARC , Kaghan
National Pesticides Resides residues CDWP
8 447.998 200.000
Monitoring System in Pakistan (PARC) 29-09-2010
50
Kitchen Gardening: A Way to Safe & DDWP
9 36.738 16.167
Nutritious Vegetables 06-08-2013
Promotion of Olive Cultivation on CDWP
10 2444.545 240.000
Commercial Scale in Pakistan 19-11-2014
Up-gradation of Arid Zone Research DDWP
11 455.493 273.000
Institute (AZRI) to the Level of AZRC 11-04-2014
Aquafeed Production in Pakistan for DDWP
12 55.307 25.000
Commercially Important Culturable Fishes 19-09-2013
Commercialization of Soyabean Crop DDWP
13 47.046 14.046
(GlycieMaxl) on Pilot Scale in Pakistan 27-01-2015
Development of Clean and True to Type DDWP
14 49.750 12.460
Fruit Plant Nurse ries at National Level. 19-09-2013
Monosex (All Male) Tilapia seed DDWP
15 54.525 20.000
Production and Culture in Pakistan. 19-09-2013
Strengthening/Up -Gradation of
16 Agriculture and Livestock Research Un-approved 730.563 100.000
System of (AZRI) U merkot, Sindh
Total : - 8402.965 1241.709
MoUs
A total of 14projects at a total cost of Rs.220.125 million was approved under MOU's with different national and
international organization for the year 2016-17. An over view of year 2015-16 and 2016-17 is as follows:
MOU's 2016-17
(Rs. in million)
52
Published By: Directorate of Scientific Communication & Publication,
National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad.
Managed & Edited By: Muhammad Fiaz Joyia
Director (DSC&P) NARC
Mr. Faisal Sohail Fateh
SSO/Managing Editor (PJAR), NARC
Photographers: Mirza Shahid Mahmood
TO (DSC&P) NARC
Faraz Ahmed
Asstt. Photographer (DSC&P) NARC
Production: Abdul Rehman Khan
DPL (DSC&P) NARC
Pakistan Agricultural Research Council
G-5, Islamabad - Pakistan
Fax: 92-51-9202968
http://www.parc.gov.pk