(Central Secretariat)

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

(Central Secretariat) ***

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

1. A special meeting of the BoG was convened on 01 July at the PARC headquarters to discuss the CDA move, which puts the future of country’s economic development and food security on high risk by submitting a proposal wherein it is suggested that 1,250 acres of NARC land is converted to residential area. The Board in a unanimous resolution urged the President BoG to approach honourable Prime Minister and inform him about the contribution of NARC for agriculture development and the consequences of closing or shifting the center from the existing place.

2. On 10th July, ALP, Borad of Governors also held its meeting and passed a resolution stating that:”The current overture by CDA to convert NARC land into a housing society is considered totally absurd, unjustifiable and opposed to the development of national agriculture and food security. NARC is a national asset that serves s all the four provinces in terms of research and technology development to enhance agricultural productivity and to address the day to day issues of agriculture. The House unanimously rejects the CDA proposal and emphasizes the necessity to further strengthen NARC and its capabilities”

3. On 13th April Pakistan Kissan Ittehad held a press conference warned the government not to shift the NARC from the current location, otherwise it would have no option but to come on roads and protest. For the larger national interest, the Itehad would not let the government to destroy this important asset as the destruction of NARC means destruction of agriculture and thereby the economy.

4. From 28-30 July, A four-member high-level delegation of Belarus scientists have had detailed discussions with the scientists of PARC to explore the areas of agriculture and livestock cooperation. Both the countries to have identified to having a huge potential for cooperation as Pakistan is agricultural country whereas Belarus has also advanced its agriculture sector through the use of scientific technology. The focus of the cooperation could be on promotion of biotechnology, crop productivity, livestock and agriculture machinery

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Plant Sciences Division (PSD),

Sr.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of the task

1. Research &

Development

Southern-zone Agricultural Ressearch Centre (SARC), Karachi:

Epidemiological studies of stem rust (Puccinia graminis):

Farmer field Kunri, data revealed that Sr5, Sr6, Sr7a, Sr7b, Sr8a, Sr8b, Sr9a, Sr9b, Sr9d, Sr11, Sr14, Sr20, Sr21 and Sr30 showed moderately susceptible to susceptible (MSS) under natural conditions.

Farmer field Matli, Distt. Badin, data showed resistant reaction against stem rust under natural conditions. This due to unconducive climatic conditions was prevailing and very low intensity of stem rust were recorded on susceptible check i.e. 10-20S.

Assessment Of Storage Losses On Wet Basis In IRRI-6 Rice By Weighment Of Marked Bags: The results indicated that in peripheral, semi peripheral and central zones, the top layers were affected more as compared to the middle layers. The average maximum losses took place in peripheral zones. The over all average loss in IRRI-6 rice on wet basis was recorded as 3.66%.

Height levels Percentage Loss Of Wet Basis In Different Horizontal Zones

Peripheral Semi Peripheral Central Average

Top layers (bags 15-22)

4.15 ± 0.38 3.41 ± 0.49 3.90 ± 0.51

3.82 ± 0.46

Middle layers (bags 8-15)

4.31 ± 0.53 2.58 ± 0.78 3.62 ± 0.30

3.50 ± 0.54

Bottom Layers (bags 1-7)

not recorded

not recorded not recorded

not recorded

Average 4.23 ± 0.45 2.99 ± 0.63 3.76 ± 0.40

3.66 ± 0.50

Tissue Culture of Banana: A total of 6817 banana plants were growing well in polybags in screen house.

Vertebrate Pest Management: Evaluation of some vegetable oils as taste enhancers against Norway rat, Rattus norvegicus. Under sunflower oil vs olive oil combination, sunflower oil (45.42 + 3.24 gm) was significantly preferred over olive oil (32.51 + 2.50 gm) while under sunflower vs soya bean oil combination, soya bean oil was slightly preferred over sunflower oil under paired choice test.

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

Maintenance of sugarcane germplasm for flowering study: A total of 195 varieties/lines of National & International germplasm are being maintained at NSTHRI, farm for flowering study and fuzz collection. Poor growth in 31 varieties/lines has been observed.

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. These seedlings are being maintained properly.

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Banana Tissue Culture: Banana varieties i.e. B-10, Pisang and W-11 are being propagated. Total 1374 Jars of banana are under multiplication/sub-culturing, 999 Jars are under rooting and 6464 plants are under hardening process. Furthermore, 51 new suckers have been initiated for tissue culturing in the lab.

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

Introduction of Kiwi plants as a new fruit under climatic condition of Mansehra: Managed 240 Kiwi plants with T-bars (Trellis) are in progress.

Management of fruits nursery plants:

Name No. of plants

Name No. of plants

Name No. of plants

Peach 2320 Apricot 2245 Walnut 1500

Plum 2190 Almond 1553 Fig 1300

Pomegranate 2200

Managed the cutting nursery: Managed the newly raised nursery of Pomegranate (11000) and fig (3200 cuttings).

Budding of peach rootstock: Budded 300 peach rootstock with almond and 600 rootstock seedling with apricot.

Tea processing at NTHRI: Processed 80 kg green tea.

Management of NTHRI tea garden: Light pruning of 10 acres tea crop to enhance fresh leaves yield.

PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan

Integrated Management Strategies for fruit flies coordinated Project (Component-II): The federal department of Plant Protection registered mango orchard was given technical guidance how to protect the fruit fly related issue for export from Multan.

PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab

Fruit Plant Nursery Raising:

Name Plants # Name Plants # Name Plants #

Florida king 1260 Early Grand 780 Texas 69 595

The plum rootstock was also budded with Cultivar Fazl Manani: 820 Rootstock of peach stone was also budded At Amir Muhammad Khan Campus, Mardan with: Florida king: 704 & Early Grand : 244

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. TS DENAR F1 hybrid give maximum yield (44 No. of fruits/plant) fol lowed by DS8512-22 F1 hybrid.

PSD, PARC Cereal System

Collected seeds of candidate hybrids, open pollinated varieties of maize and millet from various seed companies and public research institutes, made trial sets of these candidate hybrids and varieties and distributed among the maize cooperative units for their planting during kharif season 2015 across the country.

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02 Coordination Activities

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

Dr. Abdul Hameed Solangi (PSO) and Aqeel Ahmed siddiqui attended a meeting of Rotary Club SeaView, Karachi to discuss present status, progressive and update of Breadfruit tree /sapling on dated 026-07-2015.

Wheat stocks stored in Karachi and Hyderabad regions were fumigated by commercial fumigator under the supervision of FQSRI staff.


Water quality testing facility have been provided to the growers of Sindh district Thatta. The water samples brought by the growers were found marginal in quality, therefore, unsuitable for the fishes in ponds. They were suggested to mix sweet water at 1:1 to make it better.

PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab

Thirteen thousand (13000) imported olive plants (FATA share) under commercial project were collected from NARC

Meetings of Member, PSD:

Meeting of Board of Governors.

ALP 7th Batch Meeting (short listing of Preliminary Proposals etc)

Meeting of National Assembly Standing Committee on NFS&R.

Special Joint Session of IPARCC and Vice Chancellors Forum.

Meeting and visit of Federal Minister (P&D).

ICIMOD Meeting.

Meeting regarding proposal of insertion of SPDP, FATA component in PSDP Project (linked with ICIMOD meeting).

Signing of MoU Ceremony between PARC and OAKS CAF, Korea.

Meetings of Establishment of Thal Agri. Res. and Development & Polytechnic Institute (TARDPI) Punjab.

Working Group on Industrial Parks: a special Economic Zone of China-Pak Economic Corridor.

Meeting of the Technical Committee under UAP, R&D Endowment Fund.

Visit of Belarus Delegation to NARC/Meeting with Federal Minister, NFS&R.

Meeting of Belarus Delegation with Agri. Representative. Meeting of Directors/National Coordinators/PSOs & Major activities: Oilseed:

The National Uniform Yield Trail of Rapeseed and Mustard for Rabi 2014-15 were analyzed, compiled and summary of results is dispatched to concerned institutes and private seed companies.

NUYT results of sunflower spring 2015 were compiled and dispatched to concerned institute and private seed companies.

Adaptability trail for soybean were prepared and dispatched to coordinated units for planting during kharif 2015.

Horticulture:

Evaluated the project proposed titled “Off season vegetables and seed/seedling production at NTHRI, Konsh and Kunhar valleys of district Mansehra” RADP funding year 2015-2017.

Prepared Horticulture component for integrated project proposal for “Thal Agricultural Research and Development Poly-technical Institute(TARDPI)”,

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Punjab to be funded through RADP.

Reviewed/ evaluated 3rd annual technical progress report of ALP project titled “Development of Market life enhancement technology to Persimmon and its dissemination to growers”.

Wheat:

Attended the Belarus delegation visit held on 28-07-2015 at NARC, Islamabad

Winter Barley International Nurseries 2016 27 set received from ICARDA Lebanon.

Sugar and Food Legumes:

Sowing of NUYTs Mung (17 candidate lines and 3 check) and Mash (7 candidate lines and one check) were completed during the month under report.

Improved varieties (i.e. NM-!!, AZRI-06 and Chakwal-06) planted on 30 acres and Mash varieties (i.e. Arooj Mash, Mash NARC-1, Mash NARC-3 and Mash NARC-2014) planted on 15 acres for seed production.

Coordinator (Sugar and FL) attended Regional Consultation on “ Promotion of Pulses for the Multiple Benefits in Asia” organized by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations held on 29-30 July in Bangkok, Thailand.

Cereal System

National Coordinator (Cereal System) had a meeting with NRSP delegation at PARC Hqs. Islamabad regarding the survey report to improve crop production in a model village of Sargodha district, prepared by the NRSP. A number of suggestions were advised by the National Coordinator to NRSP staff to improve the report.

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. During the survey, infested Papaya leaves were collected and brought to the PMRI laboratory and kept for development of parasitoids.

PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan:

Rearing of Chrysoperla carnea and Trichogramma chilonis: 360 no. of Trichogramma cards were prepared.

PSD, PARC Cereal System

Published an Urdu brochure: “Pakistan Mein Chaawal Ke Barairaasat Khuskh Tariqa Say Kashtkaari” and distributed copies to all agriculture university libraries and progressive rice growers of the country.

04 Capacity Building / Training/Visit


Three students of BS (Agri.) Department of Agri. & Agri. Business Management, UOK, have initiated their experimental work on to find out the best suited Peat moss and soil ratios for banana hardening in screen house.


Scientist of the institute completed three months training on “Achieving

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self sufficiency through tomato seed production and promoting improved tomato cultivation practices” held at Horticulture Res. Institute, NARC, Islamabad from 06-04-2015 to 30-06-2015.

PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab:

Training on propagation of olive through air layering was imparted to technical staff of the project at CCRI Pirsabak and Sangbhatti Mardan.

Natural Resources Division, PARC

S.#. Official Task / Activity

Status of Task

1. Research & Development

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

Under the PSDP project on up-gradation of AZRI to AZRC, research and development activities has been started by plantation of quality seed increase of Mungbean varieties developed by AZRI scientist on seven acres area at AZRC farm. Maize crop has also been sown on an area of ten acres for income generation. Site selection has also been completed for proposed Lakki-Marwat’s institute, in consultation with district management.

Horticultural activities started under PSDP project through plantation of orchards of Fig, Apricot, Avocado, Grapes, Peach, Olive and Mexican lemon, are also going well. Weeding was done and irrigations were applied as per requirement to the orchards.

National uniform yield trials on Mungbean and Mashbean have been planted during the month and germination is excellent.

Advanced varietal trial on sesame including 16 lines has been planted in three repeats during the month; germination of the trial is satisfactory.

Cluster bean seeding rate trial has been sown at AZRI farm including four seeding rates.

Advanced varietal trials on pearl millet and sorghum comprising 10 entries each has been sown during the month.

Mungbean breeding material and Advance varietal trail have been harvested and threshing is under process. Data on different physiological parameters was recorded while yield and yield contributing parameters’ data will be recorded after threshing.

Spray for control of chewing and sucking type insects was applied on quality seed production of three Mungbean varieties i.e. Dera Mung, Inqalab Mung and Sona Mung (Candidate line) sown on seven acres area.

Maize crop sown on 10 acres area for income generation has been auctioned adopting proper procedure.

Janter planted on experimental block for soil health improvement has been incorporated in soil with rotavator on knee height stage.

While determining effective and economical technique of green manuring for soil health improvement Dhancha (at Knee height) has been incorporated in soil and in other treatment dhancha has been cut at the same stage.

Date palm orchard was irrigated as per requirement and up till now no

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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 to ensure their working mode.

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, Mashbean and Mungbean Adaptation Trial. Heavy rainfall during the current month damaged trials badly.

Re-sowing of Mungbean Trials heavy rains has been completed AZRI farm but heavy rain again affected the germination.

1. 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: Four rain showers at AZRI Umerkot so; 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 been continued. Some trees like Kandi and Babur completed fruiting and fruits are matured. Some grasses seeds are matured and collected. As per PARC BoG decision Lemon Grass (30’x30’ plot) has been planted at AZRI Farm. Other regular practices are going in progress.

To develop nursery of Conocorpus (English) and Thar trees on commercial basis: The sapling of Acacia nilotica (600 plants), Zizyphus (200 plants), Albizia lebek (400 plants), Kandi (170 plants), Phog stem cutting (Calligonus polygonides) (330 plants), Acacia Parkinsonia (300 plants), Iple Iple (200 plants),Irani babur (130), Murari (50), China Rose (100) and Moringa (100 plants), are developed at MARVI Nursery. 2000 new cuttings of conocorpus are planted for propagation. Some agro forestry plants were shifted to the field. Furthermore 2900 Caser (kantala) plants are planted for their further propagation.

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. The Pegs of some entries are at shell formation stage. Two irrigations were applied and two weeding were carried out. Other research data is being recorded.

Two acre of groundnuts one acre variety “Tigori” and one acre of “China” variety have been cultivated at AZRI Umerkot. Four rainfalls were showered. The crop has been turned to shell & seed formation stage. Other research data is being recorded.

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 local cluster bean was planted. Due to

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harsh climatic condition, a poor germination was recorded. Gap filling is in progress.

Bio-gas plant was in functional condition with daily Gas production of 5-6 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 DC pump running with solar power was 1.7 liters / sec, while the discharge of AC pump with biogas energy at 2.0 liters/sec. was recorded.

Cultivation of grafted ber under drip irrigation system operated by Biogas 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. The monthly data indicated that average plant height recorded was 239 cm, girth 33 cm and plant canopy at 307 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. Two irrigations were applied and basin was also prepared.

Forty plants of grapes varieties are planted after changing of soil for demonstration to farmers, the survival rate of plants are 70%. Hybrid bitter guard, sponge guard, lady finger and Chilli were also intercropped under a demo drip irrigation system. The vegetables are at flowering and fruiting stage, weeding was carried out and Tara grow fertilizer was also applied.

40 acre of Cluster bean was cultivated on rain fed at AZRI farm area. Due to high wind velocity the sand overlaps, so the crop was re-cultivated.

Protected cultivation of vegetables (AVRDC Project): 2.5 acre chili variety “Dandi cut” has been selected at Mian Muhammad Saleem Farm Janhero and at Raees Asif Khan Agha Farm at Kunri. Bitter gourd trial 08 varieties and lady finger cultivated at Junejo Farm Umerkot, bitter gourd has been damaged due to current heavy rains.

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. Further more 126 plants of Falsa have been plated at Orchard. The plants are at sprouting stage.

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. The trial is being carried out at Mian Muhammad Saleem Farm. Weeding was carried out.

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Spry of micronutrients i.e Zinc and Boran was sprayed.

Discharge of un-treated water, treated water and drain water per panel were recorded 22, 1.75 and 20 lit/hr respectively. Further more volume of treated water per panel was recorded at 14 lit/day

The average discharge of the windmill was recorded 9 lit/minute @ wind velocity of 1.35 to 3.65 m/second. Water used for irrigation to plants.

A trial of 08 varieties / genotypes of sesame has been conducted on 01-07-2015. Sesame varieties viz 100/2, Pr -19/9, K-509, Sehwan, S-117, Pr-125, L—100/5 and S-17 (check) has been planted in RCBD, row to row distance 45 cm. No. of rows 4/plot and length of row at 5 m long. Weeding was carried out, two irrigations were also applied, poor germination was recorded due to harsh climatic condition. Gap filling is in process.

A trial of 20 entries of mung crop has been conducted at AZRI Farm on 09-07-2015 in RCBD, row to row distance 30 cm. 04 lines of each variety, row length of 4 meter long. Irrigation has been applied. The crop is at vegetative growth stage. Research data is being recorded.

RADP project titled “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. Date palm orchard is at vegetative growth stage. 160 cm. plant heights were recorded. Research data on various vegetable crops has been recorded at Umerkot, Kunri and Tando Allahayar location.

RADP project entitled” 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 of 85 plants was done in mortality pits. Three villages have been selected and 25 farmers registered at each village for look after of plants. Further more 3200 plants of various agro-forestry plants are planted in two selected villages. 1000 plants were also planted in village Mithrio Charan Tehsil Chhachhro Distt Tharparkar.

RADP-Project “Performance of Horticultural Crops under Drip Irrigation System in arid & semi arid area of Pakistan”: 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 131, 09 and 167 cm respectively and irrigation applied on daily basis. Cluster bean has been planted as intercrop.

Establishment of AZRI Technology Field Station at Kharipur

Status of Fruit Tree Plants Grown in Plots of PARC Orchard at Salu, Khairpur: Different fruit tree plans (Mulberry, Ber, Pomegranate, Fig, Lemon, and Orange) are grown in four plots of orchard of AZRI (TFS), SALU Khairpur. Plot-wise status is as under:

Plot No.1: Fifteen plants of Mulberry are grown in the plot, plants vegetative growth was found satisfactory but leaves found dead and decayed on the ground mainly due to heavy rains very slow drainage. Only one plant of this fruit tree was found with healthy with sufficient growth

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of leaves.

Plot No: 2: Ten (10) plants of orange were found with healthy growth.

Plot No. 3: All plants (lemon: 7, Ber: 5 and Fig: 3) were found with healthy growth.

Plot No. 4: All plants (Pomegranate: 5, cherry: 10) were found healthy in growth. Average height recorded was 7.0 and 1.5 feet for Pomegranate, cherry respectively. All the fruit plants were found healthy and satisfactory with respect to vegetative growth

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit Cereal Section Pulses

Sowing of Mash variety PGR-1 and NARC-2 for of seed production during the month of July.

Effect of performance on the yield and yield components of Mung bean at MARC Juglote 2015. Variety M-11 and Mung NCM-2013 were sown during the month of July.

Maize

CIMMYT/NARC entries of Maize Improvement Program. Different hybrid varieties at MARC Juglote 2015 were sown during the reported month.

During the reported month, National Uniform Maize O.P.V Hybrid Yield Trial, 14 entries with three replications were sown at MARC. Maize was sown and is in good condition.

Seed production of improved maize varieties i.e. Pharri, Azam, Jalal, and Iqbal were sown for seed production 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 July.

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 July.

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

Sales of tomato, brinjal, okra and chillies to local peoples at MARC, Juglote GB in the month of July.

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

Shifting of wild pistachio rootstocks were done at MARC, Juglote (Sai) from Quetta Baluchistan and uptill now they are in good condition.

Natural Resource Research Program

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

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

Revised the work plan for the newly established Natural Resources Research.

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Grapes, Strawberry and Blackberry rootstock were planted at MARC for further propagation and multiplication were managed during the reported month.

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 15,000 initial fry have started to sold to the local community at the rate of 10 rupees per fry.

Livestock

During the reported month, no local goats was crossed with Betal Bucks whereas 32 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 6 cow were treated by artificial assimilations and only 15 cows PT test were done during the reported month.

2 Coordinator Activities

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

Mungbean multi-location yield trail, contributed by NIFA, Peshawar, has been harvested, threshing is under process and data compilation is under way.

One variety of Soyabean sown in collaboration with National oilseed programme, CSI, is at maturity stage, while the other one is at pod formation stage. Irrigation and insecticide were applied during the month.

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

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

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

Coordination with local progressive farmers and NGO’s like RDF, SOFT, SADA, Larr Humanitarian Development Foundation, SAWFCO, AWARE, SAMI Foundation, TRDP, SCOPE, Basic- DF, MDF and Provincial Agriculture Department is continued.

3 Dissemination of research results new technologies


Outreach trial planted at farmer’s field (Rehman-Abad) consisting of five promising cultivars collected from NARC and BARI, Chakwal is at flowering and needle stages simultaneously after Gypsum application @ 500 kg ha-1. Overall growth of the crop is good.

Periodic checking of the performance of Bio-gas system was carried out and gas production is good in summer, sufficient for efficient operation of the engine for round about 8 hours.

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Farmers’ live agriculture related questions were answered by Dr. Muhammad Mansoor, AZRI’s 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 “Successful production of pearl millet in the area”.

Agro-meteorological data were recorded from AZRI observatory unit. Maximum (42 0C) and minimum temperature (25 0C) was recorded on 6-07-2015 and 8-07-2015 respectively. Windblown @ 5.25 km / hour on 05-07-2015. 17 mm rainfall occurred during the month under report.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur

Intercultural practices have been done twice in cotton fields to remove weed and to pulverize the soil for root development. Irrigation has been applied during this month. The pesticide was applied against sucking insect pest complex.

The sowing of Ber and different species of Acacia plants have been done. The plants of Ber, kiker and Parkensonia were shifted from nursery to AZRI, Farm.

Newly established Horticultural fields are being maintained properly, hoeing and weed eradication has been carried out.

Heavy rain and flooding at Cholistan farm badly affected Bajra and Mungbean crops due to absence of drainage system (one side of farm is covered with sand dunes and other side is canal)

Bio Gas unit performance.

In the well of biogas digester, the fresh dung material is being added on weekly basis.

AVRDC-ALP Activities:

The offseason vegetables (Spinach & Coriander) were grown under the shade of green net cloth on the two sites one at AZRI Research Farm, Bahawalpur and second one at farmer’s beneficiary site located at Mari Qasim Shah, Bahawalpur in Co-ordination with ALP-AVRDC AZRI, Bahawalpur.

The germination was excellent and the vegetative growth of spinach was satisfactory. The fertilizer was also applied to the above mentioned offseason vegetables and weeds eradication has been carried out as well on both the sites.

4 Capacity building & Training / Visits


Mungbean growers visited AZRI farm for learning latest mungbean production package under agro-climatic conditions of the area.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI), Bahawalpur

Mr. Muhammad Khan Bhatti, Engineer from IMMI ,visited the office of Malik Muhammad Yousaf,

Director, AZRI, Bahawalpur and discussed about the installation of Drip irrigation system at Cholistan Farm of the Institute for the establishment of Horticultural crops.

Malik Muhammad Yousaf ,Director, and the team of senior scientists AZRI, Bahawalpur visited the

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Office of Dy. Director Fisheries, department Bahawalpur and discussed in detail about the research activities being carried out at both the Institutes. Dy. Director fisheries witnessed the Director AZRI and his team stocking of fish seed in the new ponds.

Mr. Raza Hayat Khan Bosan a progressive farmer from Multan visited the AZRI, Bahawalpur Institute. He discussed with the Director and his team of Scientists about the establishment of his farm.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

Muhammad Waseem Kalroo SO, AZRI Umerkot completed his three months training on hybrid development in determinate tomato and improved production technology for indeterminate tomato crop under RADP sub-project entitled “Achieving Self Sufficiency through Seed Production and Improved Tomato Cultivation Practices” at NARC, Islamabad.

Syed Ali Nawaz Shah MPA ex-Minister for Agriculture Govt. of Sindh along with progressive farmers visited AZRI Farm on 21-07-2015. He appreciated the research work at AZRI, Umerkot.

Two day training workshop of PDI stacks holders at HHH AZRI Umerkot w.e.f. 24-07-2015 to 25-07-2015. Dr. Attaullah Khan Director and Mr. Behari Lal AAE/SO briefed the farmers about efficient use of water, water logging and salinity control.

ANIMAL SCIENCES DIVISION

Activity Description

Research and Development

Animal Health Program:

Under ALP - PPR 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, the 43rd and 44th serial passages were repeated.

An experiment was initiated to establish the laboratory animal model (guinea pigs) for PPR. Nine guinea pigs were divided into three groups and virulent PPR virus was inoculated intra-peritioneally. Animals will be bled to study the physiological reaction and appearance of clinical signs post-inoculation if any.

A PPR virus was recovered in cell culture from LN tissue sample collected from an outbreak of PPR in Bhakar district.

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.

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

Post-mortem of cattle (n=3) were 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 in progress. In the month under report, the purchase of equipment has been completed. The

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tender process for purchase of chemicals has been finalized and purchase order will be issued soon.

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 11LAB was sent for partial sequencing the results of which are being awaited.

The laboratory of the ANP is participating in the ring test conducted by FAO.

For an RADP subproject, “Establishment of Ostrich Breeding Facility at NARC Islamabad” running at the Poultry and Wildlife section of the APIP, the Co-PI from ANP formulated balanced feed and prepared it at FTU.

Animal Product Improvement Program: Dairy and Meat Technology Section (DMTS):

Yogurt starter culture consisting of selected strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus was propagated and used to prepare yogurt.

One batch of goat milk cheese were prepared from approximately 3 litres of milk using rennet as coagulant. The cheese obtained was about 500 g.

A trial was conducted to prepare Lassi from goat milk yogurt and was found highly acceptable.

A trial was conducted to prepare fat free yogurt. The yogurt had an excellent texture and flavor, however, the taste was found moderately acceptable due to increased acidity.

A trial of frozen fat free yogurt was conducted. The texture of the frozen product was found highly acceptable, however, the taste was found only slightly acceptable. Further trials are now being planned in this regard.

Poultry and Wildlife Section (PWS):

The birds have started laying eggs under AnRADP funded project “Establishment of Ostrich Breeding Facility at NARC, Islamabad” and are being incubated. Feed was prepared at FTU, ANP.

Small Ruminant Research Section (SRRS):

The staff of this section visited goat markets in and around Rawalpindi several times for purchase of goats for fattening and subsequent sale at Eid festival. This activity is going in on in collaboration with PATCO.

Care and management activities related to land preparation and fodder growing for Small Ruminant Flock are in progress at NARC. Deworming of all the existing and newly purchased goat flock was performed.

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

Final Technical and Financial reports have been submitted to concerned quarters on completion of PSF funded project, “Investigations on Fertility-Related Biomarkers in Buffalo Semen to reduce male-factor losses (MFLs)”.

Heat induction and TAI trial in buffaloes has been completed in 30 animals in Mirpur, AJK field area. Under the ALP project at ARGP “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination”,. Moreover, financial and technical reports are being prepared.

Artificial brooding of 70 chicks of naked neck breed has been completed.

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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”,. The chicks are in next phase of rearing. The chicks hatched and being reared. Moreover, financial and technical reports are being prepared.

Production data of individual animals procured under RADP sub-project entitled “Development of ONBS of Nili buffalo and Sahiwal cattle at NARC” is being recorded and monitored at AR&GP, ASI, NARC. Moreover, financial and technical reports are being prepared.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Research Program:

About 3000 catfish seeds are being reared in earthen ponds with 30% CP fish feed under the project, Establishment of catfish Ictaluruspunctatus hatchery at NARC.

Acclimatization of newly imported monosex tilapia is under way.

Ornamental and Channel cat fish fries are being reared in the nursery ponds.

Water quality of experimental ponds was monitored on weekly basis. Livestock Research Station (LRS):

The LRS is maintaining a livestock herd of 125 large ruminants and also a rabbitory. In the month of July, one animal was sold, and 4 calves were born. Fodder variety was sown on 48 acres of land.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases (NRLPD):

At NRLPD a total of 782 referral and surveillance samples were received and processed for viral, bacterial and molecular diagnosis. In this regard 365 molecular diagnosis reactions (PCR, QRT-PCR, RT-PCR and sequencing) and 796 serological reactions including HI, ELISA, and PAT were carried out for major poultry pathogens along with bacteriological evaluation of 16 samples. 19 postmortems were conducted. Overall 17 poultry pathogens were isolated and sub typed as 4 H9 AIVs and 2 NDV, 2 AAV, 2 CAV along with 7 bacteriological isolations. Other poultry pathogens including, IBV (2), and Astrovirus (1) were also detected from suspected samples.

Avian adenovirus 4 and 8 were propagated in whole embryo fibroblast primary cell culture. Purification of avian adenovirus 4 in whole embryo fibroblast primary cell culture using beta neutralization method has been completed.

Determination of Tissue tropism against IBV (60 bird 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 seroconversion has been observed against H7N9 and no virus has been isolated. HI & ELISA procedures have been standardized using internationally recommended reference reagents.

Under ALP project for antigen preparation two AIV H9N2 and four NDV have been propagated through in-ovo inoculation. Experiment regarding MDT of New NDV has been completed. Sample processing and Propagation of IBV field isolates and their lyophilization is in process.

Under RADP subproject, H9N2 viruses were isolated. Seroconversion was observed in sera from non-vaccinated poultry. Sequencing has been started and HA and NA genes of 4 isolates has been sequenced. Cartography

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experiment has been completed. Neutralization using heterologous antigens has been completed.

Under FELTP project 46 samples were received and screened for AIV. Seroconversion was observed against AIV H9N2 while no seroconversion was observed against HPAI.

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

Animal Health Program:

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

An animal scientist from Belarus visited Animal Health Laboratories on 29-07-2015 to observe the facilities and animal health research activities in process. Finally the areas of collaboration for animal health were identified and submitted to senior director, ASI.

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

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

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

Coordination activities for ALP project “National Coordinated project for the genetic improvement of goat breeds in Pakistan” were performed.

DVM Training at API under RADP subproject was coordinated. National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

Visit of the Chinese delegation to NRLPD was conducted on Sunday 28 June, 2015.

Attended meeting organized by WHO regarding biosafety and biosecurity guidelines for Pakistan.

Conducted visit of media persons to NRLPD.

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

Dissemination of Research Products:

The ANP provided 297 bags of PARC cattle feed, 15urea molasses blocks, and 20kg milk booster to farmers under PATCO for technology dissemination progress.

The DMTS processed13 batches of milk (20 L each) for preparation of plain yoghurt and white cheese for technology refinement under PATCO.

The PW section of the APIP provided high egg producing crossbred rural chicks, and eggs to rural farmers under PATCO.

The LRS provided 11600 L of milk in collaboration with Sawan Dairy and PATCO.

Training imparted Training of students:

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

One M. Phil student from PIASA and one PhD student from Karakurum University are conducting research work under ANP (ASI), NARC.

Two M. Phil students of the Hazara University are doing research work on yoghurt and milk.

Research work of 07 PhD and 04 M. Phil students is being supervised at ARGP, ASI, NARC.

Two M. Phil students, one from PIASA-NARC and one from QAU-Islamabad

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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 at AHP, ASI, NARC.

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

The ANP guided 10 farmers on feeding and management of livestock and poultry.

50 fish farmers were briefed by AFRP, ASI on various aspects of modern fish farming.

2 visiting farmers were briefed on various aspects of small ruminant production by SRRS, ASI.

16 progressive farmers were briefed on various livestock management strategies by LRS, ASI.

Social Sciences Division

S. #

Official Task/ Activity

Status of Task

1. Research and Development Activities

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), NARC

Completed data entry 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 entries for Solar, bio gas, diesel/electric tube well and dry rice sowing 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”. Analysis for Z.T drill and laser leveling technologies is under progress.

Submitted the report 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.

Final report writing is in progress for the study entitled “Biozote Application to Improve the Soil Fertility in Wheat: A Case Study of Hafizabad and Sheikhupura Districts”.

Reviewed and edited baseline study of AVRDC on vegetable marketing system

Reviewed literature for the vision 2050 assignment titled “ Environment and marketing”

Reviewed literature for the vision 2050 assignment titled” Role of women in agriculture”

Prepared first draft report titled “Adoption of improved chickpea variety in 2013-14 Pakistan : Synthesis of background information”

Compiled and edited data for the TWG study titled “Compatibility analysis of fodder and livestock in Punjab Pakistan”.

Compiled and edited data for the TWG study titled “Use of principal component analysis in agricultural research”.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Tarnab

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The draft report entitled “Tomato Assessment Survey in Bajor Agency” the comments received from Directorate of Agricultural Research FATA. The comments/suggestions incorporation is in progress.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Faisalabad

Report writing is in progress of IFPRI project entitled “Role of Milk Collection Contract is Improving Milk Production and Marketing in Irrigated Punjab”.

Report writing is in pipeline entitle “Contribution of Total Factor Productivity in the Growth of Major oil Seed and Pulses Production in Pakistan”.

Comments are incorporating after the assessment of daft report of “Prospects of Fish Farming in Saline area of Rice–Wheat Cropping System of the Punjab”

Submitted Annual Progress Report (2014-15) in the light of previous year work plan to Director (PM & E).

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Tandojam

Report has been finalized on “Identifying the role of Livestock in farming food security and livelihood support in marginal and small sized farming House hold in Sindh”.

Project proposal “Socioeconomic Impact of Seawater Intrusion and Food Security Challenges by People of Coastal area of Sindh” prepared and submitted to PSDP.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), AJK

Report on “import and export scenario of Pakistan’s agriculture for the background study for Vision 2050” was almost finalized during the month under report.

Review literature for the study “Consumption Diversification and Food Demand Analysis in Muzaffarabad Division of AJK”.

Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI), Quetta

Study entitled “Tobacco (chewing) production in Highland Balochistan” data entry has completed.

Annual report of SSRI, Quetta 2014-15 has prepared and sent to SSD, PARC for comments.

2. Coordination Activities

Participated in quarterly review meeting of Soil fertility and Health project at Faisalabad and presented the progress 26-27 July 2015.

Participated in quarterly review meeting of watershed rehabilitation on 27-28 July at Faisalabad and presented the progress of quarter.

Four field days for D.I.Khan farmers were organized by NCEG, Peshawar at District D. I. Khan project sites of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Data entry completed and analysis is in progress.

Pre and Post assessment of the professional training organized by PCRWR under watershed project data entry completed.

Two female field days were organized under the ICARDA project entitled “Improving Soil Fertility and Soil Health” the data cleaning and entry completed.

Mr. Abdul Hassan and Mr. Arshad Farooq, SSOs, SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar conducted survey and collected primary data for the ICARDA project

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entitled “Improving Soil Fertility and Soil Health” at project site.

Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation Improvement in Pakistan: Demonstrating and Disseminating the Best Practices and Technologies to Help Rural Farmers”. This project is funded by USDA in collaboration with ICARDA, NCEG and PARC. SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar is the partner of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa component dealing with socioeconomic activities.

SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar presented quarterly progress of the ICARDA project entitled “Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation Improvement in Pakistan: Demonstrating and Disseminating the Best Practices and Technologies to Help Rural Farmers”. The meeting held at Agricultural University Faisalabad on July 28, 2015.

SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar presented quarterly progress of the ICARDA project entitled “Improving Soil Fertility and Soil Health”. The meeting held at Agricultural University Faisalabad on July 27, 2015.

Mr. Sherbaz Khan (PSO), Participated and attended the meeting with Director and Agri. Scientists regarding wheat experiments dated 16-07-2015, and submitted the annual wheat experiment report to Director, SSRI.

Dr. Arshed Bashir, Mrs. Riffat Tahira and Mr. Ather Mehmood attended quarterly review meeting of soil fertility and soil health project held at University of Agriculture, Faisalabad on July 27, 2015.

Mr. Rashid Saeed, SO, participated in Wheat Survey 2014-2015 with the survey team of Agriculture Policy Institute, Islamabad from 22-28 July 2015.

SSRI Team prepared evaluation report for quarterly meeting at Faisalabad and provide evaluation report on three components of ICARDA project (MUET, Jamshoro, ATI, Sakrand and IPI SARC, Karachi with presentation. held on July, 2015).

SSRI team prepared evaluation report & presentation for quarterly meeting and sent to Head Quarter by email at Faisalabad.of the ICARDA project Agri: Extension Sindh Govt which was held on July, 2015.

Culturing of Tissue culture Banana Suckers was done at ARI, Laboratory Tandojam

SSRI team conducted survey on Cost of Production of Wheat crop in six district of Sindh i.e. Hyderabad, Sanghar, Mirpurkhas, Shaheed Benazirabad, Naushero Feroz and Tando Allahyar with Agriculture Policy Institute (API) Islamabad dated: July 22nd to 28th 2015.

3. Dissemination of Research Results New Techniques (publications, research papers, articles, radio/TV talks, seminars, symposia, workshop etc.

Research Project Titled: “Basline survey of Basmati Rice Value Chain in Punjab” submitted to PARB.

Paper entitled “Economics of Peri-Urban Radish Production and Marketing in Faisalabad accepted for publication in Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Research”.

Developed a project proposal on “An Analysis of Food Consumption Diversity and Demand for Food in Azad Jammu and Kashmir” and submitted to SSD for funding under RADP.

Developed an article on “Do Trade Agreements Benefit Pakistan’s Agricultural Export? A Gravity Model Approach”.

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Developed an article on “Exploring Potential and Opportunities for Raw skin and Hides Export of Pakistan”.

Provided statistical advisory and data analysis services to students of universities and scientists of NARC.

Conducted an assessment survey of watershed technologies at Chakwal and Arrokus from 23-24 July .

Conducted an assessment survey of soil fertility and health project technologies at chakwal , Faisalabad from 23-25 July.

4. Training Imparted Under ASLP2 social project organized a capacity building training for female in Community Services Centre (CSC), Chak 83-SB, Sargodha.

Organized basic training on computer applications for male youth in CSC, Chak 83-SB, Sargodha, under ASLP2 social project.

Training course on computer applications for male youth in Tangi Khatak (training is in progress).

Training course on capacity building for female in Tangi Khatak (training is in progress).

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING DIVISION (AED)

S# Official Task/Activity

Status of Task

1. Research & Development Activities

Prepared tender documents for solar cabinet dryer and sent to SDF Secretariat, Bhutan for approval.

Experiments were carried out for solar drying of mangoes, candies and tomatoes.

Rehabilitation of solar dryers at Khaipur, Sindh is in progress.

Development of sisal combing machine is in progress.

Indigenous multi-purpose version of adapted wood chipper shredder is ready for operation and pre-testing at manufacturer’s premises.

Documents for revision of budget of SDF post harvest project were prepared and sent to SDF Secretariat, Bhutan for approval.

Budget of SDF project was revised and submitted to SDF Secretariat for approval.

2nd disbursement request for SDF project was prepared and submitted to SDF for disbursement of funds, which is still under consideration with SDF.

Case of extension of SDF project was prepared and submitted to SDF.

Prepared work plan of Agricultural Engineering Division for the year 2015-16 and submitted to Planning and Development Directorate, PARC.

Convened the meeting of Directorates of AED and Director, ABEI, NARC to finalize the priority research and development areas in the field of agricultural engineering.

Prepared tender documents for: o Solar-cum-gas fired dryer

o Solar tunnel dryer

o Solar powered cabinet dryer

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o Banana value addition equipment

Finalized the ToR of the Consultant for Banana Value Addition and submitted to SDF for approval.

Prepared a project proposal on “Adaptation and commercialization of small-scale technologies; soymilk production, household level olive processing and edible oil refinery.

2. Coordinated Activities

Made a presentation on “Present status and future needs of agricultural machinery in Pakistan” to the delegation of Belarus. Explored the possibilities of joint R&D projects between Pakistan and Belarus. Also explored the possibility of joint ventures between Pakistani agricultural machinery manufacturers and Belarusian manufacturers. The following areas of cooperation were identified:

Agricultural Mechanization

1. Technologies that can be adopted as such:

Balers compatible with 80 hp tractor

Fertilizer and agro-chemical applicators

Implement with multiple operations like tillage, clod breaking, pulverizing

and furrow making and sowing

Maize Harvester

Grape and Apple Harvester

Irrigation equipment

2. Prototype Development:

Wheat and Rice Combine Harvester

Small scale fruit and vegetable processing unit

Fodder harvester-cum-chopper

Potato and Groundnut digging and shaking machines

Fruit harvesting machinery

Sugarcane Harvester

Berry Harvester (Falsa)

Rotary Pruner

3. Capacity Building:

Training in agricultural mechanization, post-harvest & food engineering,

alternative energy engineering and water resource management.

Establishment of a centre of excellence for testing and standardization of

agricultural machinery.

Technical comments were provided on tender documents of IA-Bhutan. Prepared study report on 1st Training of Trainers Program on ANTAM test

codes held at Nanjing, China and submitted to Director (HRD), PARC. Monitoring & evaluation of RADP sub-projects related to AED were

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

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

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3. Dissemination of research results / new technologies

Interviewed Scientific/Para Scientific staff for recruitment under SDF project on 02-07-2015 at PARC HQs.

Attended meeting of working group on Industrial Parks along with China & Pak Economic Corridor.

The achievements of ABEI, NARC were projected on electronic media such as Geo TV, Dunya TV and Such TV.

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENTD DIVISION

S # Official Task/Activity Status of Task

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

Annual Work Plan 2014-15 of PARC (Support Services Volume) finalized and presented to Chairman and ready for posting to all Divisions, Centers and Institutes of PARC.

2. Planning Activities Project preparation process going-on on Development and Introduction of Organic Norms for Organic Certification in Pakistan, for NIO-NARC. PRP project finalized and submitted to PD-RADP for placing in upcoming PEC meeting.

3. RADP (Program Officer) Recommendations on reviewed projects followed up. Input on files of RADP continued to help PIU-RADP in many issues like PSC decisions, procurements, PEC. Planning on M&E exercise of outstation on-going RADP sub-projects completed, to start after floods recede.

4. Project on Capacity Building for proposal writing

Target of conducting seven workshops one each for each province, GB and AJK have been achieved. One day workshop for University of Poonch, Rawlakot is being planned. More than fifty faculty members are likely to attend. Technical and final financial reports are being prepared for submission to ALP Secretariat, PARC.

5. Project progress information

Project progress information required by PM secretariat’s office and other parliamentary bodies being followed up by letters circulation to all PD’s & PI’s of PSDP projects. Brief all PD’s about online submission of reports to M/o NFS&R.

6. AIP and Others:

NIOA-NARC provided regular consultation on their planning and development phase, which continues on daily basis. Activities report for the month of June 2015 for P&DD prepared and sent to Dir. Technical, PARC.

7. Processed/scrutinized Annual/mid year/final technical progress reports of seven ASD, NRD, SSD & PSD disciplines and forwarded to concerned quarter for evaluation/comments.

8. Processed/scrutinized Processed/scrutinized mid year financial progress reports of 11 projects related to ALP for evaluation/comments.

9. Project completion formalities

Five projects progress completion formalities were completed

10. Agreement prepared and issued

Agreements prepared and issued for two projects

11. Revision of budget Budget revise for, Development of models for the control of PPR in Gilgit-Balistan province. Gilgit-Balistan-VI

12. Processed/scrutinized mid year

Annual technical progress reports of four ALP projects of PSD and SSD. Same reports were forwarded to Technical Divisions for

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Coordination & Monitoring Division

S. # Coordination Activity Status of Task

2 MOU’s Sent letter to SO(IC-I), MNFS&R regarding agreements to be signed during forth-coming visit of Pakistan’s Prime Minister to Belarus, on 02-07-2015.

Sent letter to SO(IC-II), MNFS&R regarding draft MoU between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Republic of Korea in the field of agriculture, on 13-07-2015.

3 Training During the reported period four (4) scientists were allowed to participate in different events and themes in different countries.

Fifty three (53) cases of international visits of scientists for different countries and disciplines were forwarded to the Ministry of Food Security & Research for approval.

Two cases of PhD and Post Doctoral program were processed and send to the ministry for concurrence. Four local training courses in local institutions of national repute were processed i.e NCRD, PPMI and STI, etc Islamabad.

comments/evaluation and their comments have been communicated to PIs for compliance

13. Monitoring of on-going 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 and processed.

14. Appraisal of project proposals

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

15. Meeting of the Board of Directors of ALP

The 21st meeting of the Board of Directors of ALP was held on 10.07.2015 at PARC Headquarters, Islamabad. The meeting was presided over by the Chairman, PARC/BOD, ALP attended by members or their representatives. The draft minutes were provided to all the participants for their concurrence and necessary amendments or suggestions if any.

16. Miscellaneous Attended a meeting held between PARC and Sustainable Plains Development Program (SPDP), P&D Department, FATA Secretariat, Peshawar about insertion of FATA in PSDP funded projects of PARC. The meeting was presided over by the Chairman, PARC attended by program Director, SPDP, FATA and Members, PARC, DG. P&DD and Director, AZRC, D.I.Khan. Minutes of the meeting were prepared and provided to all concerned for taking appropriate action their part.

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National Agricultural Research Centre S.# Official Task/Activity Status of Task

1. Research and Development Activities

Crop Sciences Sector

Hybridization of the wheat crop breeding material at Summer Wheat Nursery Kaghan is in progress.

Analyzed data of breeding material, i.e., NUWYT, International trials/nurseries, NRs, PYT, AYT and demonstration material and report finalized.

Under AIP/AVRDC project demonstration plots of mung bean planted at 60 selected sites in five districts of Potohar Region

Harvesting of National Uniform Fodder Yield Trial on Lucerne and adaptability trial on SS Hybrid was carried out and data was recorded for green fodder yield and yield components.

Data on individual weeds density was collected fro the experiment for controlling weeds in direct seeded rice. Treatments were applied to determine their impact on weeds and crop growth carried out.

Prepared seed samples for oil content determination

Groundnut research experiments were maintained by weeding and insect pest control

Planted soybean seed multiplication blocks on 150 acres at NARC.

Planting of soybean demo plots on farmers’ fields in Pothowar, KPK and rice area of Punjab.

Amaranthus, sunflower and quinoa germplasm was successfully regenerated and seed after multiplication was stored in the gene-bank.

Agro-morphological data regarding pod size, seeds/pod, seed color, 1000-seed weight and seed yield/plant was completed 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 of four accessions of Achillium. Seeds were collected and stored at 4˚C.

Essential oil from oregano leaves and geranium was extracted and stored at 4˚C for further studies.

Effect of essential on germination seed infected with p. oryzea and ex oryzea causing rice blast and rice blight disease, respectively.

Effect of hot water treatment on germination of seed infected with p. oryzea and ex oryzea causing rice blast and rice blight disease respectively.

Twenty Tobacco plants samples from Pakistan Tobacco Company

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showing wilting symptoms were analyzed and following fungal pathogens have been isolated Rhizotinia solani, Fusarium oxysporuim, Fusarium solani, Macrophomina phaseolina and Alternaria alternate.

Total 108 soil samples of potato cyst nematode (PCN) were analyzed. Sixty eight samples were found positive and 40 negative. On the basis of results of survey conducted in potato growing areas a map was established for the project.

Social Sciences Sector

Completed data entry 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 Solar, bio gas, diesel/electric tube well and dry rice sowing 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”

2. Coordination Activities Crop Sciences Sector

Mung bean and mash seed provided to NRSP, Agricultural Extension Department of Punjab and farmers.

Necessary information about maize was provided to the National Coordinator, Cereal Crops, PARC as per requirement.

Seed for National Uniform Fodder Yield Trials on Sorghum, millet, maize, guar and janitor was distributed/dispatched to 13 locations of diverse agro-climatic nature of the country.

Around 1407 accessions of various crop species were distributed for research purpose. They included tomato (30 accessions) & chili (33) to Dr. Razi Uddin, PBG, Agric. Univ., Peshawar; wheat (166) to Dr. Munir, PBG, PMAS-UAAR, Rawalpindi; onion (47) to Dr. Rashid Mehmood, AP, PBG, UAAR, Rawalpindi; soybean (50) to Shahswar, ARI, Tarnab, Peshawar; eggplant (10) to CM Ayub, UAF; soybean (100) to M. Tariq, Oilseeds, NARC; soybean (260) to M. Ahson, PGRI; maize (125) to Dr. Nadar Khan, PSO, PGRI; mash (285); soybean (300) to Dr. A. Ghafoor, PGRI; wheat (01) to Kiran Zahid, NUST, Islamabad.

Training on “Post Harvest Processes in Mango” was conducted in collaboration with ASLP supply chain project in Multan where 25 mango growers participated from three districts of Punjab, i.e. Khanewal. Multan and Muzaffar Garh.

Training on “Pruning and Application of Other Inputs” has been planned in August 2015.

Social Sciences Sector

Attended a meeting of Senate standing committee

working paper in Executive Committee Room, NARC on

July 2, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

Attended a meeting with Sohni Dharti Team in Executive

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Committee Room, NARC on July 3, 2015 at 9:00 a.m.

Attended a NARC expert committee meeting at NARC Executive Committee Room on July 13, 2015 at 9:00 al.m.

Attended a NARC expert committee meeting at NARC Executive Committee Room at 1:00 p.m. on July 22, 2015.

To participate in ICIMOD workshop on climate change impact on food security in HKH region of Pakistan in Marriott Hotel, Islamabad on July 23, 2015.

Attended a meeting of lease agreement with CDA in Executive Committee Room, NARC on July 31, 2015 at 9:30 a.m.

Attended a general body meeting of joint action committee to save NARC in NARC Auditorium on July 31, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

Participated in quarterly review meeting of watershed rehabilitation on 27-28 July at Faisalabad and presented the progress of quarter

Planning Research & Monitoring Cell

The visit of three member delegations from the National Academy of Sciences, Belarus (NASB) who visited NARC, Islamabad from 28-30 July 2015 was coordinated and specially the institutes where they showed their concern for future collaboration. Among them ABEI, PGRI, NIGAB and ASI were prominent, apart from other institutes which were visited for knowledge improvement and curtsy sake.

Compiling the annual progress report 2014-15 of different institutes of NARC in the light of approved work plan 2014-15as per letter received from PARC P&D.

Compiling annual progress report of ongoing and completed projects of different institutes of NARC for onward submission to RADP.

Called Executive Committee Meeting to discuss the progress of ongoing ALP and RADP projects and discussed new projects to be approved through ALP sources.

3 Dissemination of Research work/new techniques

Fodder component team attended a meeting in “ICARDA” during July and presented review of Programme and plan of work for next six months.

Technical guidance and literature to farmers for soybean planting was disseminated by Crop Sciences Institute.

Coordination with IWMI and USDA for organizing a training workshop on “Pond Design and Management” in August 5-6, 2015.

Demonstrated alternative energy sources research activities to the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock farmers and students visited during the month.

Started developing an Urdu brochure entitled "Furrow Bed Irrigation System" for publishing

Started planning of a professional training on solar powered efficient irrigation system at Thatti Gujran, Fateh Jang under USDA

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funded project entitled "Watershed rehabilitation and irrigation improvement" in Mid August 2015.

A Urdu brochure on “Makai Kay lyea Zinc Khad: Ahmeiat aur Safarshaat” was got printed

“Humic acid ki ahmiat aur afadiat” Urdu brusher about the importance and benefits of humic acid

Brouchers for Biozote in Urdu and in English were prepared and printed after vetting from ICARDA, NARC

“Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria having 1- Aminocyclopropane-1-Carboxylic Acid Deaminase to Induce Salt Tolerance in Sunflower” has been published in Natural Resources.

A seminar “Exogenously Applied Gibberellic Acid, Indole Acetic Acid and Kinetin as Potential Regulators of Source-Sink Relationship, Physiological and Yield Attributes in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Water Deficit Conditions” was presented in PGRI.

Provided statistical advisory and data analysis services to students of universities and scientists of NARC.

Conducted an assessment survey of watershed technologies at chakwal and arrokus from 23-24 july

Conducted an assessment survey of soil fertility and health project technologies at chakwal , Faisalabad from 23-25 July

4. Training Imparted

Training workshop on “Hi-Aware RC2 Component” from 3rd -11th July (9 days) in Chitwan/ Kathmandu, Nepal was attended by scientists of the institute

Attended planning workshop of Himalia project organized by ICIMOD on July 28, 2015.

Participated 02 days brainstorming meetings at Agricultural Engineering Division for developing “Priority Research and Development Areas” of alternative energy in agriculture.

Participated in the technical sessions of three days (July 23-25, 2015) international Seminar entitled "Actions for Climate Change Adaptation: Bringing climate science to policy makers" at Marriot Hotel Islamabad organized by ICIMOD Pakistan

Attended one day review meeting on July 28th, 2015 of project entitled "Watershed Rehabilitation and Irrigation improvement" at UAF Faisalabad.

Students from different universities (Quaid-e-Azam University, Per Maher Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University are deputed for research paper/term and development activities in RRI.

Sisal farmer day was conducted in field area of RRI and farmers were trained from Chakwal.

Under ASLP2 social project organized a capacity building training for female in Community Services Centre(CSC), Chak 83-SB, Sargodha

Organized basic training on computer applications for male youth in CSC, Chak 83-SB, Sargodha, under ASLP2 social project

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Training course on computer applications for male youth in Tangi Khatak (training is in progress)

Training course on capacity building for female in Tangi Khatak (training is in progress).

A hand on training was imparted on rodent management in groundnut crop to farmers in Hazro. Practical demonstration was given on application of fumigants inside the active burrows and installation of environmentally safe PVC bait stations carrying slow poison in chronic areas of infestation.