News Jan Apr V31 N1 Con - Pakistan Agricultural Research ... · Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC in his augural address, welcomed all the disting-uished guests specially from Nepal

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Pakistan Agricultural Research CouncilJanuary - April, 2019 Vol. 31 - No. 1

Dr. Munir appointed PARC Chairman

Dr Munir Ahmad is working as Chief Scientist-II / Member (Natural Resources Division) /Chairman, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Islamabad. Dr Munir Ahmad had also been working as Member (Natural Resources Division), Director General (AED), PARC, Director General (P&D) Division, PARC and CSO/ Sr. Director, Agricultural and Biological Engi-neering Institute (ABEI), National Agricul-tural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad. Dr Munir did his B.Sc (Agri. Engg) from University of Agriculture, Faisalabad in 1981, and won Gold Medal. He did his M. Engg from Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok in 1983. Dr Munir earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering from Iowa State University of Science & Technology, Ames, Iowa, USA in 1990.Dr Munir Ahmad's major work is in the areas of innovative equipment development for farm mechanization, post-harvest man-agement, natural resources management, climate change, and solar energy in agriculture. His developed technologies have already been adopted by the farming community of Pakistan. The impact of these technologies on the national economy is in the tune of 10-12 billion rupees per annum. Dr Munir's research work has been published in various national and inter-national journals. He is author of more than 60 scientific research papers, and technical reports. During his research career, he also won implemented SDF project entitled “Post-Harvest Management of Fruits in Production Catchments of SAARC Countries- Pakistan Component, and also lead this project in six SAARC countries [Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal,

Precious Foreign Exchange would be Saved if Olive Cultivation is Stepped up in Pakistan: Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan

Inaugural session of International Confe-rence on Olive Orchard Management and Value Chain Development was held at National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad on Feb. 19. Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o National Food Security & Research, Islamabad was the Chief Guest of the occasion. Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC, Prof. Dr. Nadeem Akhter Abbasi, Vice Chancellor, PMAS, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Stefano Ponteco-ryo, Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, experts

from Greec, Spain, FAO Rep. in Pakistan and other prominent scientists were also participants of the event.While addressing to the inaugural Cere-mony, the Chief Guest, Sahibzada Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o National Food Security & Research, Islamabad said that Olive is of great interest to the farmers of Pakistan. Precious foreign exchange would be saved if olive cultivation is stepped up in Pakistan and the country begins processing its own olive oil to help

Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister, NFS&R, Stefano Pontecorvo, Italian Ambassador, Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC and Prof. Dr. Nadeem Akhtar Abbasi, VC, PMAS-AAUR sitting on the stage International Conference on “Olive Orchard Management and Value Chain Development” held at NARC on Feb. 19.

PARC Playing Vital Role in Agriculture Sector: Rao Ajmal Khan

Meeting of National Assembly Standing Committee on National Food Security & Research (NFSR) was held at National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad on Mar. 12. Rao Muhammad Ajmal Khan, MNA / Chairman, NA Stand-ing Committee on NFSR presided over the

meeting.Speaking on the occasion, Rao Muhammad Ajmal Khan, Chairman, NA Standing Committee on NFS&R said that Pakistan have huge potential in agriculture field which needed to be exploited for the pro-

Rao Muhammad Ajmal Khan, Chiarman, National Assembly Standing Committee on NFS&R presiding over Meeting held at NARC, on Mar. 19. Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for NFS&R, Dr. M. Hashim Populzai, Federal Secretary for NFS&R and Dr Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC and others also present on the occasion.(Contd. on page 7, Col. 1)

(Contd. on page 7, Col. 1)


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Sustainable Watershed Management practices to enhance resilience of natural resources to climate change risks: Dr. Munir

Sustainable watershed management brings the management of water, land, crops and energy together for sustainable agriculture and improved livelihood of watershed com-munities. Pakistan lies in the worst climate change zone and has been ranked among the top ten countries at risk to climate change in the world. This was said by Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC on the occasion of Inaugural Session of Workshop on “Imp-roving Skills on Sustainable Watershed Management practices in South Asia” held at Islamabad Hotel, Islamabad on Mar. 19. The main objective of the project is Capa-city building of professionals on improved site specific technologies for promoting sustainable watersheds according to climate

change scenarios of Pakistan, Nepal and Sri. Lanka.Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC in his augural address, welcomed all the disting-uished guests specially from Nepal and Sri Lanka and said that the Workshop on “Improving skills for promoting sustainable watershed management practices in South Asia” will be a source of effective skill development on improved watershed mana-gement practices and strengthening regional linkages, especially with Nepal and Sri Lanka. He further expressed his pleasure that this project is focused on sustainable watershed management practices which will ultimately increase the farming

Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC addressing to the participants on the occasion of Inaugural Session of Workshop on “Imroving Skills for Promoting Sustainable Watershed Management Practices in South Asia” organized by CEWRI, NARC at Islamabad Hotel, on Mar. 19.

Farewell Message by Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Ex-Chairman, PARC

Dear ALL:My term as Chairman, PARC has now come to an end on 22nd February, 2019 in line with the appointment letter dated 5th Octo-ber, 2016. It has been an amazing journey and together we have really made a diff-erence in transforming agri-food research and innovation to better meet the national food security and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our interac-tions with line Ministry of National Food Security and Research as well as with national and international development partners reached to a new height during this period.My heartfelt thanks to the wonderful Executive Committee (EC), Board of Governors (BoG), Secretariat team and to all those who have been involved in PARC's governance and management for their invaluable support over the last two years. We worked together in such exciting new ways with single aim to promote PARC in order to regain its past glory.The single most laudable achievement which happened during this period was withdrawal of CDA summary to regain 1400 acres NARC leased land for developing a housing project. My special appreciation to ex-Federal Minister Mr. Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan who led the noble cause with fearless courage and dignity. Revival of flagship PSDP project on Olive commercialization is another mile-stone. Hope this will achieve its objectives in extended period. Reorganization of academic activities under PIASA enabled us to clear the backlog and move forward with new vigor under QAU patronage.Availability of funds always remains a challenge. However, our scientists due to their hard work and novel ideas, able to win many research projects under PSDP, PSF, IFS Sweden, FAO/IAEA , ICIMOD, USDA, USAID, CDC, JICA, KOPIA and many more. PARC is proud to be associated with Prime Minister Package based on PTI Agriculture Emergency Programme as well as under Technology Driven Knowledge Economy Task Force. PARC is also in forefront of Agriculture sector programmes under CPEC. Exciting times are ahead and I am confident that new team will pursue all these initiatives with renewed strength and consistent efforts. Pak-US Agriculture Linkage Programme (ALP) attracted lot of applause from Federal Cabinet in May, 2018. ALP programme set new record and after completion of 7th and 8th ALP, recently launched 9th ALP programme. It is envisaged that e-filing will soon be part of our paperless culture.I am thankful to PARSA and EAPARC for

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council holds Board of Directors of Agriculture Linkage Program to evaluate

project proposals for funding

The objective of the Agricultural Linkage Program (ALP) is to promote and support agricultural research and development acti-vities in accordance with the Pakistan's long term development goals and to promote long term scientific cooperation between Pakistan and the United States in agricul-tural sector.Dr. Yusuf Zafar, T.I., Chairman, PARC presided over the Board of Directors (BoD) of Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP) at PARC on 20th Feb. to technically evaluate

the project proposals. DG P&DD and Executive Director of ALP Dr. Ghulam Rasool briefed about the agenda of the meeting. All Technical Members of PARC and other senior officials also participated in the meeting. While presiding over the meet-ing Chairman PARC welcomed the commi-ttee members and said that the ALP is an endowment fund established at PARC with the support of Government of USA to use for activities/projects in line with the

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC presiding over a meeting of ALP Board of Directors at PARC on Feb. 20.




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Picture NewsVariety Evaluation Committee on Rice recommends 12 new hybrids and one open pollinated variety for commercial cultivation

Variety Evaluation Committee (VEC) on Rice was held at Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Islamabad on 14th Feb. National Coordinator (Rice) of PARC presented the working paper for all the twenty-six proposals of rice hybrids / varieties for recommendation to the Federal Seed Certification & Registration Depart-ment. The VEC recommended 12 rice hybrids and one open pollinated variety for commercial cultivation in the country. The meeting was attended by technical members

from NARS including the Director General, Federal Seed Certification & Registration Department, Director General (Agriculture Research) Govt. of the Punjab, Food Securi-ty Commissioner from Ministry of National Food Security & Research and Director General of NARC. The representatives of seed companies including Chairman Seed Association of Pakistan also attended the meeting. Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC chaired the meeting.

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC Chairing a VEC meeting on Rice at PARC on Feb. 12.

MoU Signed between PARC and Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN), for the purpose of jointly undertaking capacity building support and improve livelihoods of the poor community

A signing Ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding was held at PARC, Islama-bad between Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Islamabad and Rural Support Programmes Network, Islamabad for collaboration of mutual benefit, capacity building support and improve livelihoods of the poor community in Pakistan on Feb. 4. A delegation from Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN), Islamabad headed by Ms. Shandana H. Khan, Chief Executive Officer (RSPN) visited PARC HQs on 04 February, 2019 for the purpose.The objective of the MoU is to seek benefits for existing technical resources of NARC for implementation of Climate smart agri-culture (Vegetable and crop production),

Live Stock, Poultry and Fisheries related interventions in rural areas of Pakistan.As per terms & conditions of the Memo-randum, NARC will provide the technical assistance; share best international prac-tices; facilitate for organizing of different training events related to Agriculture as Live Stock, Poultry and Fisheries by provi-ding training facilities; foster linkage of RSPN for implementation of agriculture related projects/programmes in Pakistan; advice RSPN about approved varieties of vegetables, crop seeds, breed of livestock & poultry; and also provide technical endorse-ment for agriculture proposals and modules. RSPN will facilitate NARC in seeking

Muhammad Tariq, Secretary PARC signing MoU with Ms. Shandana H. Khan, CEO Rural Support Programmes Network Islamabad at PARC Feb. 4.



A group photo of Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC and Sr. officials of PARC/ NARC with Chinese delegation at NARC on Apr. 25.

Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC is presenting PARC Shield to Mr. JIAO GUANG LIAN, General Manager, Gansu Academy of Mechanical Sciences Corporation Limited, China at NARC on Apr. 25.

Chinese Delegation headed by Mr. Lixin Zhang, Chairman / Standing Director, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China visiting Wheat Crop Field Areas on at NARC Apr. 6. Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, DG, NARC and other NARC officers are also present on the occasion.

Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC, Ms. Kazuho Ujiie, JICA, Dr. Shuichi Matsushima, Team Leader JICA are in a group photo at the occasion of “Project of Capacity Development of Agricultural Extension Services in Balochistan” on Apr. 23.

Dr. Munir Chairman PARC Visiting PARC - Biological Control Lab (PRTS), Multan on Apr. 26.

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Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I Chairman PARC along with DG (SARC) visited at PARC-Arid Zone Research Institute, Umerkot on dated 5-2-2019 to 7-2-2019. On first day they visited Pre-cast boundary wall, boundary fence and tree plantation around boundary wall. Dr. Attaullah Khan Director AZRI briefed about construction work under PSDP Project and current activities i.e. Kitchen garden, solar desalination unit, drip irrigation system, herbarium block, hydro-ponic, nursery, bio-fertilizer plant, grasses, agro forestry block, trails of Rabi crop and orchard (i.e. Date palm, grafted ber, falsa, olive, chiku, lemon), fish pond, biogas plant. During the visit the Chairman PARC, appreciated the efforts made by the scientists and staff under the leadership of Dr. Attaullah Khan, Director AZRI Umerkot within limited time and available resources.On second day (6-2-2019) Chairman PARC inaugurated the Moringa plantation around the pre-cast boundary wall for leaves production and wildlife model at PARC-AZRI Umerkot. After the field visit, the Chairman PARC, the DG (SARC) and the Director with scientists of PARC-AZRI proceeded to Thar coal to visit 20 acres orchard and fodder under high efficiency irrigation system establish by PARC-AZRI Umerkot and to sign MoU document.The objective of the MoU is to grow fruit trees and fodder through high efficiency irrigation system, livestock, poultry and fisheries related interventions in arid/rural areas of Pakistan. Syed Murtaza Azhar Rizvi, Director site operations and Umair Aslam Butt, Manager Health Safety & Environment Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) Islamkot, appreciated the PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC).

Visit of Chairman PARC at AZRI Umerkot MoU signed PARC and Thar Foundation (TF) Islamakot

MoU signing ceremony between PARC and Economic Transformation Initiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan for improvement

of livelihood through agricultural development in rural areas of Gilgit Baltistan

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Economic Transformation Initiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan (ETI-GB) has signed a MoU for improvement of livelihood through agricultural develop-ment in rural areas of Gilgit Baltistan. A delegation from Economic Transformation Initiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan (ETI-GB) headed by Dr. Ahsanullah Mir, Program Coordinator, ETI, GB visited PARC for the purpose on Jan 24.Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) is the apex national organization in Pakistan working in close collaboration with public and private sector institutions in

the country to provide science based solutions for the development of agriculture in Pakistan whereas Economic Transfor-mation Initiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan, (ETI-GB) aims at improving income, reduc-ing poverty and malnutrition in the rural areas of Gilgit Baltistan.Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Economic Transformation Ini-tiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan (ETI-GB) have recognized that the roles of the two organizations are complementary and an institutional understanding and strategy to combine their potentials will synergize

Muhammad Tariq, Secretary PARC, Dr. Ahsanullah Mir, Program Coordinator, Economic Transformation Initiative Program(ETI-GB) are sharing files on the occasion of signing of MoU between PARC and ETI, GB at PARC on Jan. 24.

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council holds 44th meeting of Technical Advisory Committee of BoD of Agriculture Linkage

Program to evaluate project proposals for funding

The objective of the Agricultural Linkage Program (ALP) is to promote and support agricultural research and development acti-vities in accordance with the Pakistan's long term development goals and to promote long term scientific cooperation between Pakistan and the United States in agricul-tural sector.Dr. Yusuf Zafar, T.I, Chairman PARC has presided over 44th meeting of Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of Board of Directors of Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP) at PARC on Thursday 24th Jan. to technically evaluate the project proposals

received under 8th Batch of ALP.In 44th TAC meeting, altogether 39 projects presented for evaluation, out of which 29 recommended by Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for further consideration of Board of Directors (BoD) whereas 10 have not been recommended / deferred at both ends. DG P&DD and Executive Director of ALP Dr. Ghulam Rasool briefed about the agenda of the meeting.While presiding over the meeting Chairman PARC welcomed the committee members and said that the ALP is an endowment fund

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC presiding over a TAC meeting of ALP Board of Direcotrs at PARC on Jan. 24., Islamabad. Other members of the committee are also present in the meeting.




Book Launching Ceremony

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Hazara University, Mansehra signed MoU to pursue a program of scien-tific, technical and academic collaboration for the exchange of ideas, skills and techni-ques on problems of national interest. A delegation from Hazara University, Manse-hra headed by Dr. Muhammad Idrees Khan, Vice Chancellor, Hazara University, Manse-hra visited PARC for the purpose on Jan 23.PARC and Hazara University, Mansehra undertake to pursue a program of scientific, technical and academic collaboration for the exchange of ideas, skills and techniques on problems of national interest as agreed from

time to time. Initially both PARC and Haza-ra University, Mansehra will exchange and training of faculty, students supervision, technical personnel and material with mutual consent for research and academic development, joint or coordinated scientific research and technological development programs in selected areas, holding of joint conferences, seminars, symposia and work-shops at national and international level, mutual sharing of scientific information & research materials. Internees of Hazara University will be facilitated at PARC, laboratories for their internship. Hazara

MoU inked between PARC and Hazara University, Mansehra for Scientific, Technical and Academic Collaboration

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC, Dr. Muhammad Idrees Khan, Vice Chancellor Hazara University, Mansehra sharing files on the occasion of MoU Signing Ceremony between PARC and Hazara University, Mansehra at PARC on Jan. 23.

MoU Signed Ceremony Between PARC and Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan for Development of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries

Rural Areas of Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan has signed a MoU. Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC visited in the office of Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan at Serena Hotel, Islamabad for the purpose on Jan 17. PARC and Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan agreed for mutual collaboration and coordination with the objective to impr-ove food and livelihood security of the peo-ple living in rural areas of Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral (GBC).Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) is the apex national organization in Pakistan working in close collaboration with public and private sector institutions in the country to provide science based solut-ions for the development of agriculture in Pakistan whereas the mission of Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan is to contribute to sustainable solutions to long-term problems of poverty, hunger, illiteracy and ill-health with special emphasis on the needs of rural communities in mountainous and other resource poor region and also working in the field of integrated rural development to im-prove the quality of life of the local people.The purpose of the agreement between

PARC and Agha Khan Foundation of Pakis-tan based on the shared objectives of sus-tainable socio-economic development in rural areas by implementing joint activities, as well as creating important synergies and opportunities through closer relations. PARC and Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan undertake joint efforts to foster the development of Agriculture, livestock and fishery / aquaculture sectors in Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral (GBC), in order to make use of the comparative advantages of each institution in areas such as; invest-ments in community productive infrastruc-ture, irrigation, community based water management, mountain agriculture, small

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC, Akhtar Iqbal, Chief Executive Officer, Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan sharing file on the occasion of MoU signing Ceremony at Serena Hotel, Jan. 17.

Internship Certificate Distribution Cere-mony was held at PARC-SARC, Karachi on Feb. 22. The Seminar Secretary, Dr. Tahir Anwar, CSO, PMRI conducted the event to all successful students / internees who fulfilled requirements of the internship program and attended different institutes of PARC – SARC under the supervision of their respective Directors.Among five batches of Internees consisting 42 students, taken in 2018; a group of 21 students of University of Karachi hailing from Department of Agriculture and Agribusiness Management, Department of Geography and Department of Zoology participated in interactive SARC internship program under the supervision of Dr. Tahir Anwar, CSO, PARC and team of Scientists at SARC.The event was graced with the special presence of the Dean, Faculty of Science, University of Karachi, Prof. Dr. Tasneem Aadam Ali as a Chief Guest accompanied with Chairperson, Department of Geography, Professor Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, Prof. Dr. Seema Tahir Department of Zoology & Chairperson Department of Agriculture and Agribusiness Management Dr. Saboohi Raza as honorary guests.The Chief Guest highly appreciated the efforts of PARC-SARC, commending such opportunity extended to students and valued the presence of PARC establishment (under Federal Govt. Ministry of National Food Security & Research), Islamabad within vicinity. The guests insisted on extending research exposure to students and collaborating scientific expertise of PARC-SARC under leaned hand of scientists of PARC-SARC.Dr. Tahir Anwar, Seminar Secretary / CSO, PMRI, SARC voiced a resolution that an interdepartmental completion among students / internees be seconded to assess & instill presentation qualities for furtherance of their professional endeavored. The event ended with vote of thanks from the organizing team represented by Mr. Bhugro Mal, SSO, PMRI alongwith distribution of certificates. As a gesture to support agriculture, the occasion was marked with tree planting by each guest within PARC-SARC premises.

Internship Certificate Distribution Ceremony held at

PARC-SARC, Karachi

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MoU Signed between PARC and Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi for Implementation of Climate Smart Agriculture in Rural

Areas of Sindh Province

A signing Ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding was held at PARC, Islamabad between Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Islamabad and M/s Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi. A delegation from M/s Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi headed by Mr. Nausherwan Haider, Managing Partner visited PARC for the purpose on Feb. 13.The objective of the MoU is to seek benefits for existing technical resources & expertise of PARC for implementation of Climate smart agriculture (Tissue Culture Techno-logy) in rural areas of Sindh Province.

As per terms & conditions of the Memo-randum, PARC will provide technical assistance & training of the staff of M/s Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi at their labs at Karachi or Thatta. PARC will assist the Biotech Lab to import different varieties of banana, chemical & other species from different countries for research purpose. PARC will provide technical assistance in buying new equipments & in establishing news labs in different areas where banana cultivation is under practice. PARC will also facilitate in Testing plants

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC, Nausherwan Haider, Managing Partner, M/s Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi signing MoU at PARC on Feb. 13. Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, DG, NARC and other Sr. Officials of PARC are also present on the occasion.

PARC and provincial institutes should work together for the benefit of small farmers Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman, PARC

Tenth Meeting of Inter Provincial Research Coordination Committee (IPARCC) held at PARC, Islamabad on 14th Feb. under the convenership of Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC. Provincial Partners of Agricultural Research / Livestock, Planners and Vice Chancellors of Agriculture Universities also participated in the meeting.Dr. Muhammad Shakeel, Director (Coordi-nation), PARC briefly described that the main objective of the August forum is to have greater research coordinating among the Federal & Provincial research partners

and academic institutions to avoid duplica-tion, overlapping and to develop a concrete agenda of agriculture research at national level.Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman, PARC apprised the house that PARC has a broad mandate to coordinate research among Federal, Provin-cial and higher education agencies on one side and with international agencies (CGIAR) on other side. PARC operates 12 satellite institutes across the country. PARC being a Federal research organization have

Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC presiding over the IPRCC meeting held at PARC on Feb. 13.

PAE organized Symposium on “Bioeconomy & Engineering

Nexus” at Karachi

The Pakistan Academy of Engineering (PAE), Member International Council of Academies of Engineering and Technolo-gies Society organized its 12th Symposium titled “Bioeconomy & Engineering Nexus” on March 02, 2019 at Movenpick Hotel, Karachi. On the directives of Dr. Yusuf Zafar, ex-Chairman, PARC, Dr. Syed Asim Rehan Kazmi, Director General, PARC-SARC, Karachi participated and made presentation in the Symposium.The participants of the symposium were welcomed by Dr. Ing. Jameel Ahmad Khan, President, Pakistan Academy of Engineer-ing, Karachi. Later on, Prof. Dr. Wu Kongming, Vice President, Chinese Acad-emy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing pre-sented a presentation on-line from China titled “The field of agriculture under the coverage of CPEC & its impact on the Bio-economy of Pakistan”. Dr. Shahid Mansoor (S.I), Director National Institute of Biotech-nology & Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Faisalabad presented his presentation online on “Genetic Engineering and Genome Editing: The Need for Legislation”. Prof. Dr. Javaid Akhtar, Director, Institute of Soil & Environmental Sciences, University of Faisalabad shared his views to the partici-pants on Soil as a sustainable resource for Food Security in Pakistan. Dr. Muhammad Aamer Mehmood, Assoc. Prof. Bioinfor-matics & Biotechnology, GC University, Faisalabad discussed online the Biomass Production & its Utilization for Bioenergy. Dr. Shahida Wizarat, Dean CESD, IOBM, Karachi shared her views on Food Security and Bioediting. Dr. Syed Asim Rehan Kazmi, Director General, PARC-SARC, Karachi presented his views on Food Sec-urity, Challenges & Developments for Pakistan. In the end, a session of discussion was held by the participants and concluding observations were made by Dr. Ing. Jameel Ahmad Khan. Dr. Khan emphasized up holistic approach to take on board all stakeholders for uplifting the comparatively new concept of Bioeconomy in the Country.On behalf of PARC-SARC, Director General, SARC appreciated the dedication of PAE (team) for holding the Symposium despite the extra ordinary security situation prevailing in the Country.

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Dr. Munir Ahmad, appointed PARC Chairman

Pakistan and Sri Lanka]. He has 28 years Post Ph.D. experience in R&D in Pakistan Agricultural Research Council. Dr Munir is the member of various professional and ho-nor societies including; American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, and the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. He is an innovative researcher, academician, administrator, and research planner.

(Contd. from page 1, Col. 1)

Precious Foreign Exchange would be Saved if Olive

Cultivation(Contd. from page 1, Col. 3)




reduce oil imports. So there is considerable potential of olive cultivation and its pro-motion in Pakistan. In such scenario organization of such conference is highly appreciable for the promotion of olive cultivation through provision of scientific knowledge and technological advance-ments to farmers. Considering the huge potential in economic development, the pace of olive plantation and resources to carry out the plantation on mega level needs to be enhanced considerably. The recent and advanced knowledge on olive cultivation brought in by our foreign speakers if replicated in Pakistan may bring about large changes in the livelihood of our farmers. The government of Pakistan is trying best to solve the problems of farmers' community in Pakistan which they face starting from production to marketing of their commo-dities. Very recently, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan has declared his keen interest to grow trees and his team is working on various relief packages for the farmers of Pakistan. I am sure this will help to uplift agriculture in Pakistan and will reduce the production cost burdens of the farmers. The Federal Minister also appre-ciated that Pakistan Agriculture Research Council and PMAS Arid Agriculture Uni-versity has carried out successful steps for promotion of olive cultivation and pro-gression in this field. I appreciate the efforts for development of Agriculture especially Olive Farming in Pakistan.In welcome speech, Dr Yusuf Zafar, Chair-man, PARC shared his views and indicated that there is a great potential of olive cultivation in Pakistan, especially in Balo-chistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pothohar region. Dr. Yusuf Zafar further added his views that Olive cultivation is most suitable for the marginal degraded lands on which it is being promoted for cultivation. He also said that the interest of Italy in promotion of olive cultivation in Pakistan is still con-tinued and the presence of Italian Ambassa-

dor in conference is evidence of this interest. He further added thatProf. Dr. Nadeem Akhter Abbasi, Vice Chancellor, PMAS, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi and Stefano Ponte-coryo, Italian Ambassador to Pakistan also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of olive.

gress of the country. Appreciating the PARC initiatives for agriculture development, he said that his committee would take every possible step to help promote PARC and consequently agriculture research culture.On the occasion, Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o NFS&R said that Govt. of Pakistan Comm-itted to boost agriculture sector and there are several areas where PARC can focus its research activities and that would ultimately result in the development of agriculture sector all across the country. The Federal Minister also briefed the participants of the meeting about the comprehensive plan for development of agriculture sector by the present Govt. in line with Prime Minister's Task Force on Agriculture. Listing targets, the minister said that all goals are achievable and every effort will be made by the minis-try in this regard and International experts will be engaged to set up new facilities and upgrade existing modern research institute while extension services at all level.Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC said that the government should give agriculture a top priority as it is the backbone of country's economy, adding this sector not only absorbs major labor force but also works as backup industry for several other industries. He said that as compared to other regional countries, government spending on agriculture was minimum in Pakistan and despite this, the agriculture sector is producing promising results.At the end of the meeting, the members of NA Standing Committee on NFSR also visited the field areas of National Agricul-tural Research Centre (NARC) where research is being carried out. In the visited areas, Wheat & Canola Crops, Solar Energy Pumps and NIGAB Labs were included.

PARC Playing Vital Role

Sustainable Watershed Management practices

community resilience to climate change through stimulated adoption of improved practices. He also appreciated the inter-national participants from Nepal and Sri Lanka for their interest in sustainable water-shed management interventions and grate-ful to Asia Pacific Network (APN), Japan for providing us financial resources for this

important project. The Chairman, PARC also added that this project has provided an opportunity for strengthening linkages and further avenues of research collaboration among the three South Asian countries and donor country Japan.While addressing to the participants, Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, DG, NARC said that Pakistan is fast becoming a water scarce country due to many reasons such as climate change induced risks, improper water management at all levels, rapid population growth rate and urbanization. PARC being an apex agricultural R&D body of Pakistan fully realizes the significance of techno-logical advancements in in water sector for improved land and water productivity as well as human resource development for effective utilization of such technologies. He further added that PARC / CAEWRI has envisaged both technological demonstrat-ions to improve overall water productivity, watershed sustainability and more impor-tantly on human resource development aspect to make efficient use of advanced water-smart technologies. He also express-ed that climate change and degradation of natural resources is a regional issue which can be more effectively addressed through strengthening cooperation, linkages and research collaborations among the regional countries, especially Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Japan.Project Leader, Climate Energy and Water Research Institute (CEWRI), NARC pre-sented project overview and its achieve-ments. The distinguished delegates Sewa Lamsal, Ambasador, Embassy of Nepal, Noordeen Mohamed Shaheid, Sri Lanka, Madan Lall Shrestha, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Nepal and Dr. S.H.S.A De Silva, Natural Re-sources Management Centre, Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka were also add-ressee of the event and expressed their views on the objectives and outcomes of the project.

established at PARC with the support of Government of USA to use for activities / projects in line with the Pakistan's long-term research / development goals for the agriculture sector. The Committee appro-ved minutes of the last meeting.Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC urged the members to reduce the process-ing time and also urged the TAC members to focus on good quality of research. He said that PARC running this program very efficiently since its inception.

PARC holds 44th meeting of TAC of BoD of ALP to evaluate project

proposals for funding

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PARC holds Board of Directors of ALP to evaluate project

proposals for funding

Pakistan's long-term research/development goals for the agriculture sector. The Com-mittee approved minutes of the last meeting.In the meeting, altogether 21 projects pre-sented for evaluation / approval of Board of Directors of ALP and 19 projects were approved by the BoD which were recom-mended by Technical Advisory Committee and 02 projects were not approved by the Board.Dr. Yusuf Zafar urged the members to reduce the processing time and also urged the BoD members to focus on good quality of research. He said that PARC running this program very efficiently since its inception. Dr. Zafar further added that under ALP several projects of different sections have been completed and 9thbatch of ALP have also been started under which research proposals are invited in accordance with their priority.








Farewell Message by Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Ex-Chairman, PARC

their understanding and guiding executive for the betterment of employees. My sincere suggestion is to keep all differences within Council and completely avoid in taking their differences to the Ministry/Media. Such acts are lethal and incur irreparable damage to the image/prestige of PARC.It's onto new things for me and seeking new challenges, but I certainly aim to take forward PARC's vital principles into new forms and applications, wherever they may be needed. PARC of course continues to go forward, with a new Chairman and Exe-cutive Committee now being recruited. I will devote majority of my remaining time with my family whom I grossly neglected in my obsessive pursuit to achieve excellence. However, I am available round the clock on the contacts given below.I wish you all every success in your ende-avors to make PARC a model agricultural research institution with global recognition. Sincerely,Dr. Yusuf Zafar, T.IEx- Chairman, PARCHouse # 22, Street # 2,G-13/3, Islamabad,Home: 051-2301024Cell: 0331 6765676

VEC on Rice recommends 12 new hybrids and one open pollinated

variety for commercial cultivation

Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman, PARC while speaking to the participants appreciated the role of private and public sector for taking interest in research and development of rice in the country. He briefed about upcoming projects on rice under Prime Minister's “National Agriculture Emergency Progr-am”. He appreciated the hard work of Natio-nal Coordinator (Rice) Dr. Muhammad Yousuf for conducting maximum number of VEC meetings in the history of PARC since its establishment.Presiding the variety evaluation committee meeting, Dr. Abdul Ghafoor, Member, Plant Sciences Division, PARC emphasized the role of quality seed for the productivity and profitability of farmers and appreciated the role of seed companies and public sector institutes for making efforts to improve the potential of rice hybrids/varieties in Pakis-tan. Representatives of seed companies appreciated the role of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council for setting the new bench marks for testing of rice hybrids/varieties in Pakistan for the benefits of farmers as well as rice sector in Pakistan.

MoU Signed between PARC and Rural Support Programmes

Network (RSPN), for the purpose of jointly undertaking capacity building support and improve

livelihoods of the poor community

community level support for research to be conducted on different aspects of livestock, poultry and fisheries. RSPN will share community level issues on Agriculture, Live Stock, Poultry and Fisheries with NARC and provide space in RSPN's Karachi office & targeted districts of Sindh.Ms. Shandana H. Khan CEO Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN), Islamabad appreciated PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN) and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC). She also appreciated the efforts of Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC for develop-ment of agriculture sector in the Country. Chairman, PARC also shared his views on the occasion that the partnership of both parties will become fruitful to remove the poverty through up lifting the agriculture of country.

efforts for fast tracked development of Gilgit Baltistan. PARC and ETI-GB will sponsor joint information collection and dissemination initiatives for raising awareness on agriculture technology and skills related aspects. The facilities of the both organizations shall be utilized for the benefit of learning and sharing for greater benefit of communities of Gilgit Baltistan. Both organizations will share information for research on agriculture technologies. PARC and ETI-GB will also hold joint capacity building initiatives (trainings, workshops, seminars, exposure visits and information dissemination campaigns) to educate farmers and other value chain actors all relevant issues.Dr. Ahsanullah Mir, Program Coordinator, Economic Transformation Initiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan (ETI-GB) appreciated PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Yusuf Zafar, T.I, Chairman PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between Economic Transformation Initiative Program, Gilgit Bal t is tan (ETI-GB) and Pakis tan Agricultural Research Council (PARC).

MoU signing ceremony between PARC and Economic

Transformation Initiative Program, Gilgit Baltistan for improvement of livelihood

through agricultural development in rural areas of

Gilgit BaltistanVisit of Chairman PARC at AZRI Umerkot MoU signed PARC and Thar Foundation (TF) Islamakot

On third day of visit i.e.7-2-2019 the Chairman, PARC, headed the book launching ceremony “Miracle Tree, Importance, Uses and Production Technology of Moringa oleifera in Sindh” published by PARC-AZRI Umerkot, sponsored by arche noVa at Agriculture Research Institute, Tandojam.In the end, Dr. Attaullah Khan Director AZRI Umerkot offered vote of thanks to all the participants of the seminar.

University will also facilitate PARC scien-tists in research activities in Mansehra.Dr. Muhammad Idrees Khan, Vice Chan-cellor, Hazara University, Mansehra appre-ciated PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Yusuf Zafar, T.I, Chair-man PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between Hazara University, Mansehra and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC).

MoU inked between PARC and Hazara University, Mansehra

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MoU Signed Ceremony Between PARC and Agha Khan

Foundation of Pakistan for Development of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Rural Areas of Gilgit Baltistan and

Chitral

scale agro – processing, climate change and finance. As well as strengthening the smallholder's institutions and promoting private sector participation in agriculture value chains across Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral (GBC).Mr. Akhtar Iqbal, CEO, Agha Khan Foundation of Pakistan and Mr. Irshad Khan Abbasi, Director Rural Development, Civil Society & Habitat, Agha Khan Foundation, Pakistan appreciated PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between Agha Khan University of Pakistan and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC).








and cultures at their labs. Whereas M/s Sp-routs Biotech Laboratories, Karachi will bear costs of plants & cultures or seeds if imported for research purpose and will also bear the costs of Collaborative research & field evaluation of new varieties. M/s Sp-routs Biotech Laboratories, Karachi will establish further Tissue Culture Labs & Green Houses in different banana growing districts with the assistance of PARC. Colla-boration & Coordination shall be made between both parties in organizing aware-ness campaign programs / events (confer-ences, seminars, workshops and trainings).Mr. Nausherwan Haider, Managing Partner, M/s Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi appreciated PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Yusuf Zafar, T.I, Chairman PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between M/s Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC). He also appreciated the efforts of Dr. Yusuf Zafar, (T.I.), Chairman, PARC for develo-pment of agriculture sector in the Country and Chairman, PARC also shared his views on the occasion that the partnership of both parties will become fruitful to remove the poverty through uplifting the agriculture of country and in future both parties become the precious partners.

MoU Signed between PARC and Sprouts Biotech Laboratories, Karachi for Implementation of Climate Smart Agriculture in Rural Areas of Sindh Province

PARC and provincial institutes should work together for the benefit of small farmers Dr.

Yusuf Zafar, Chairman, PARC

to perform the role of an effective coordi-nator and facilitator and have to take lead role in certain agricultural Research & Development areas in post devolution scenario. Chairman, PARC also apprised the house regarding new initiatives in agriculture and described that present government has established several task force(s) on Agriculture and includes PARC in the composition. The purpose and the mandate of formation of task force(s) namely “Technology Driven Knowledge Economy” & “Agriculture Emergency” is that these Task Forces have been to identify legislative, regulatory and policy challenges to promote agriculture, economic develop-ment, job growth, infrastructure improve-ments, technological innovation, energy security and quality of life in rural area of Pakistan.The forum at length discussed that National Food Policy, Promotion & maximization of Pulses, Promotion production of deficit crops (tomato, onion and oilseed) and agri-culture coordinated program. The govern-ment emphasized that government should take up fast steps for making legislation in agriculture sector and appointed the authority under whom its activities will be regulated. The forum expressed satisfaction over the steps so far taken by the present government for the revival of agriculture sector and appreciated the role of PARC for effective coordination with the provinces for Research & Development in agriculture sector in Pakistan.

Ramzan, Vice President, Mr. Roshan Zada, General Secretary, Mr, Amir Mumtaz, Information Secretary, Dr. Zahida Fatima, Joint Secretary and Mr. Tahir Chohan, Finance Secretary along with repre-sentatives Dr. Sajda Taj, Aitizaz Ahsan, Khalid Jamil Jehanzeb and Abdullah Baloch of all four divisions and outstations. On this occasion, scientific awards were also distributed among scientists in different categories. In the end, DG NARC Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, thanked all the participants for gracing the occasion.

Agri. Scientists needs to Plan for Improvement of Farm Sector in Pakistan. Sahibzada Mehboob

Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o NFS&R, Islamabad

NARC in boosting up the beekeeping sector in Pakistan:

Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali

effects as well as bee colony problems. Professors from different Universities in Pakistan, beekeepers, scientists / para-scientists are also participants of the four days Workshop. The workshop will continue up-to 18th April, 2019. A beekeeper from Chakwal also presented the problems faced by beekeeper and urged the scientists to resolve the issues faced by beekeepers.

local research and development of private seed companies in the country in seed sector. A comprehensive discussion bet-ween the private sector and Govt. high officials was held during the meeting to address the problems in seed production, approval, release and marketing in the country. General issues related to adap-tability / National Uniform Yield Trials were also discussed in detail in the meeting. Overall twenty five proposals were thoro-ughly examined and 19 were allowed for enlisting with Federal Seed Certification and Registration Department (FSC&RD).Members of VEC also appreciated the role of private seed companies for taking interest in research and development and working in close collaboration with public sector.

VEC recommended 09 new varieties for commercial cultivation in Pakistan

China keen to accelerate the development of Agriculture

Engineering, Overseas Economic Coop-eration Deptt. China discussed the mutual priorities for development in agriculture sector under Pak-China Socio Economic joint Working Group. The Chinese delegation appreciated the PARC's role of collaboration with international partners for the development of agricultural sector in Pakistan. The Chinese delegation was of the view that this meeting would definitely prove fruitful to further strengthen existing collaboration between the both countries. Chinese delegation also stated that China intends to provide help in different agri. Research projects being carried out at NARC and also aims assistance for training of NARC's agri. Scientists according to their field. Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC also presented a PARC Shield to the head of Chinese delegation on the occasion.

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country. Pakistan is the world's seventh most vulnerable country to climate change despite being among the world's least polluting countries with a global emission contribution of 0.2 percent. Deforestation and degradation of rangelands not only affecting the whole ecosystem services but also causing huge economic losses in the form of floods and droughts in the country. Therefore, as a nation we should take every step for the conservation, protection and sustainable utilization of these natural resources for a better and viable economy of Pakistan.Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Bhatti, Managing Director, M/s Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Private Limited, Islamabad appreciated PARC efforts in agriculture sector and also thanked Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC who has kindly consented to get MoU signed between M/s Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Private Limited, Islamabad and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC). He also appreciated the efforts of Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC for development of agriculture sector in the Country and Chairman, PARC also shared his views on the occasion that the partner-ship of both parties will become fruitful to remove the poverty through up lifting the agriculture of country and in future both parties become the precious partners.

MoU Signed between PARC and Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Pvt.

Limited Islamabad




Concluding session of 2 days training workshop on Soybean By-products held at NARC

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) has made efforts to popularize this crop and its by-products nationwide with the help of PSDP funded soybean project entitled “Commercialization of Soybean crop (Glycine max L) on Pilot scale in Pakistan”. It has been said by DG NARC Dr. Ghulam M. Ali at the occasion of conclud-ing session of two days training workshop on Soybean by-products held at NARC on Apr. 23. He also welcomed participants of training and briefed about steps taken by PARC's for betterment of Soybean crop and its by-products.At this occasion Program Incharge, Soy-bean Project briefed the participants about training session. He said that commer-cialization of Soybean by-products by Oilseed Research Program are commend-able. With the help of NRSP and FSRI, NARC has made efforts to popularize different soya by-products (soymilk, soya halwa, soya kabab, soya ice-cream, soya samosa, soya custard, soya pakora and soya chat).At this occasion DG, Planning & Develop-ment, Director API, Director ASI and other scientists of PARC / NARC were present. This unique effort of team soybean project (Oilseeds Research Program, NARC) was highly appreciated by higher-ups and audience and they were excited to hear more about soya by-products on commercial scale in future.

Dr. Mohammad Ayub, Director CSI, Dr. Ashiq Rabbani, Director BCI, Dr. Muhammad Arshad, PL, Dr. Jamil Akhtar, PO NRSP and Dr. Muhammad Amjad, CEO are sitting on stage on the occasion of concluding ceremony of Two Days Soybean Bi-Product Training Workshop at NARC on Apr. 19.)

Soybean crop has an important value among Pakistan's

agriculture sectorhas been provided an opportunity for grower and scientists to interact with each other, and to get conversant with new technology, and the new techniques performing to wheat. Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah further added that this Wheat Seminar will provide the agri. scientists an opportunity to observe wheat crop across the country and work for its development.Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC said that this is one of the most important activities which provides an environment of exchange of ideas and learning for the participants and it helps young scientists to learn from experi-ence breeders and other senior scientists. The Chairman more added that Sindh has huge land still not in use properly and wheat crop has also faced decline due to climate change.Dr. Abdul Ghafoor, Member (Plant Scien-ces), PARC while addressing to participants of wheat travelling seminar said that this institute developed excellent models and it's the start of work and has great potential for bio saline agriculture, PARC will fully support for the process of uplifting the livelihood of Thar agricultural productivity.Director PARC-AZRI, Umerkot presented about new wheat varieties Banzeer-13 and Sindhu 16, ridge sowing method, irrigation levels, weeds management and nitrogen detection through Green seeker device in wheat crop. He also briefed the participants of the seminar regarding research activities carried out at AZRI, Umerkot.The experts also visited Karni Singh agriculture farm where a Benazir-13 wheat variety cultivated on ridge sowing. The visitors felt happy to determine the wheat variety Banzeer-13 on ridge sowing looks very excellent form and size. National Coordinator Wheat, PARC Islamabad, Pro-vincial researchers, Extension workers, far-mers and NGOs were also important part of the seminar. Research scientists answered the questions of progressive farmers. Fina-lly visitors gave valuable comments on well hospitality of PARC-AZRI team to them.

Wheat Travelling Seminar 2019

PARC as announced in budget for FY. 2018-19. The speakers demanded to the Government specially Ministry of National Food Security & Research and Ministry Of Finance to provide finances of Rs. 1352 million to PARC immediately in order to sustain strategic agricultural research and avert any further financial crises. Members of joint action committee also thanked the electronic and print media for highlighting the protest in the media.

Members of Joint Action Committee of PARSA & EAPARC of PARC, Dr. Tariq Sultan, Dr. Roshan Zada, Rana Maqsood, Dr. Zahida Fatima, Azizullah Shah, Rao Shah Jahan, Ch. Muhammad Aslam Gujjar, Imtiaz Ahmed Khan and Dr. Altaf Sher are addressing to the participants of the protest at PARC on Apr. 25.

PARC Employees hold protest against non-payment of 10%

Research associations in scientific institu-tions have been playing an important role in promoting scientific research and develop-ment activities to help bring social and economic prosperity in a society.Agri scientists to prepare a work plan based on long-, medium and short-term strategies to move forward for the agricultural deve-lopment in the country, said by Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o National Food Security & Research, Islamabad. while addressing the oath-taking and Science Award Distribution Ceremony of Pakistan Agriculture Research Scientists Association (PARSA) here at National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) on 18thApril, 2019. He stressed the need for ensuring collection of quality information for conducting research and influencing polices to promote livestock and agri sector in the country.Talking to the participants of the PARSA oath taking and Science Award Distribution Ceremony, Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC said that Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) is the apex natio-nal agricultural research organization of highly qualified scientific manpower has played a key role for ensuring the national food security. Owing to the hard-work of these scientists Pakistan is now self -

sufficient in its major food items like wheat, rice, sugarcane, maize etc. Chairman PARC also thanked both dignitaries for sparing their valuable time for the ceremony. He assured the worthy Federal Minister and Secretary that scientists are always ready to take any challenge faced by the agricultural sector in Pakistan. He reminded the respectable guests about the current budget deficit of PARC.The newly elected President of PARSA, Dr Tariq Sultan assured that the association will continue its efforts to promote the scientific research and disseminate knowledge at the door step of farmers. Dr. Tariq described that currently PARC is facing financial liabilities of 1352 Million rupees and PARC scientists are still deprived of 10% increase in basic salaries, 50 % increase in house hiring announced by Government in 2018. More than 150 employee are waiting for their pension and commutation arears. He requested minister to take immediate steps to end this financial crunch and unrest amongst scientist, so that they can work with the peace of mind for the betterment of this country.Newly elected PARSA executive committee took oath at this occasion. The elected members include Dr Tariq Sultan, President, Mr. Muhammad

Agri. Scientists needs to Plan for Improvement of Farm Sector in Pakistan. Sahibzada Mehboob Sultan, Federal

Minister for M/o NFS&R, Islamabad

Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for NFS&R, Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC, Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, DG, NARC and Dr. Tariq Sultan, President, PARSA are sitting on stage during the of Oath taking and Science Award Distribution Ceremony of Pakistan Agriculture Research Scientists Association (PARSA) at NARC on Apr. 18.

Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for NFS&R is taking oath from the newly elected members of Pakistan Agriculture Research Scientists Association (PARSA) at NARC on Apr. 18.)

NARC in boosting up the beekeeping sector in Pakistan:

Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali

Four Days Advanced Training Workshop has been organized by the Honeybee Rese-arch Institute at NARC, Islamabad, Pakis-tan. The objective is to raise the awareness about the role and importance of bees in ecosystem and to draw the attention of the people for the protection and conservation of honeybees and other pollinators. The contents of the training workshop are principles of Queen Rearing & stock impro-vement, queen rearing methods (traditional and non traditional), choosing the best stock (hive) to raise queens, grafting frame honey composition, quality control parameters, granulation & quality grading, and prepara-tion of honey samples for testing & analysis.Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali DG, NARC as the chief guest of the event emphasized on enhancing the scope of research activities regarding pollination, mites and disease control, quality queen breeding and honey analysis. He further added that NARC is playing a vital role in boosting up beekeep-ing sector in Pakistan. Dr. Ghulam M. Ali further added that honey production is very useful business in Pakistan. Honey produc-tion and beekeeping are environment frien-dly practices. These non-farming business activities have the potential to provide a wide range of economic contributions and Honeybee Research Institute, NARC is main hub for boosting up the beekeeping sector in Pakistan. Director, Honey Bee Research Institute (HBRI), NARC high-lighted the role of PARC and emphasized on the need to save the bees for the services that they provide to the humanity. He also spoke on the importance of honeybees as pollinators and the conservation of bees for the conservation of biodiversity as well as further steps in enhancing the status of bees in Pakistan. He also emphasized on the need to improve and strengthen the honey analysis laboratories to keep a check on the honey quality and pesticide residues in honey with special focus on increasing the honey export of Pakistan by reaching the European honey market. He highlighted the major issues such as deforestation, indiscri-minate use of pesticides, climate change

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Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, DG, NARC Dr. Sarfraz Ahmad, Director (RM&F) NRD and Dr.Rashid Mahmood Direcotor (HBRI) addressing to Innugural Session of Four days of Advanced Training Workshop Entitled “Dynamics of Honeybee Agis Mellfere L Queen stock improvement Modeling and Honey Quality Grading on Apr. 15.

Variety Evaluation Committee (VEC) on Maize, Sorghum, Fodder and Other Cereals recommended 09 new varieties for

commercial cultivation in Pakistan

Nine (09) Maize hybrids; four (04) Maize OPVs, 01 Millet variety (fodder), 01 millet hybrid (grain), 02 Oat verities and 01 sorghum sudan grass hybrid have been recommended for commercial cultivation in Pakistan by the Variety Evaluation Comm-ittee (VEC) on Maize, Sorghum, Millet, Fodder and other cereals in a meeting held at Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) on April 04.During the meeting, Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC highlighted the role of PARC in the process of variety evaluation and its release. He also emphasized the role legislation and newly approved seed act and

its compliance by the public and private sectors. Chairman, PARC also appreciated the role of PARC coordination and the increasing trust of people on the system. Honorable Chairman urged the importance of self sufficiency in local seed production to reduce the huge import volume of seed.Dr. Abdul Ghafoor, Member (Plant Sciences), PARC chaired the VEC meeting which was attended by technical members from NARS system and private seed companies. While presiding over the meeting, Member (PSD), PARC / Chairman VEC appreciated the immerging trend of

Dr. Abdul Ghafoor, Member (Plant Sciences), chairing a VAC meeting on Maize, Sorghum, Millet and Fodder Crops at PARC on Apr. 4.

A signing Ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding was held at PARC HQs, Islamabad between Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Islamabad and M/s Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Private Limited, Islamabad. A delegation from M/s Silvanus Forestry headed by Dr. Istvan GRAFJODI, Commercial Counselor, Embassy of Hungry along-with Mushtaq Ahmed Bhatti, Managing Director, M/s Silvanus Forestry visited PARC for the purpose on Apr. 04.PARC signed a MOU with Silvanus Fores-try, Pakistan Private Limited, Islamabad for introduction, evaluation and testing of fast growing varieties of Black Locust (Robinia

pseduacacia) and Willow (Salix alba). The new varieties of these species will be tested by PARC/NARC in various agro-ecological zones for adaptability, growth, diseases and insect/pest resistance. Black Locust is nitrogen fixing legume tree used for wood fiber, poles, land reclamation, forage and beekeeping while Willow wood is used for manufacturing of boxes and cricket bats. It is hoped that the new tree varieties will make a significant contribution in the 10 billion tree plantation program of the present government to address the issues of climate change, reversing environmental degradation through reforestation in the

Muhammad Tariq, Secretary, PARC, Mushtaq Ahmad Bhatti, Managing Dircetor, Silvanus Forestry (Pakistan), PVT. LTd. are singing a MoU between PARC and Silvanus Forestry (Pakistan) Pvt. Ltd at PARC on Apr. 4.

MoU Signed between PARC and Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Pvt. Limited Islamabad

Pakistan produces prime quality of honey in the World:

Dr. Munir Ahmad

The concluding session of four Days Adv-anced Honeybee Training Workshop organ-ized by the Honeybee Research Institute held at NARC, Islamabad. In training workshop master trainers, extension office-rs, university teachers, progressive farmers and women from all the four provinces, AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan and various federal and provincial organizations participated.Concluding of the 4th day training workshop on 22nd April, the Chief Guest, Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC said that Pakistan produces prime quality of honey in World and Pakistan has great potential to get itself listed in the major honey producers in the World. He also appreciated the efforts of the Honeybee Research Institute, NARC for initiating industrial linkages with honeybee sector for training and transfer of modern research technology for the socio-economic development of the country. The Chairman, PARC further added that the basic purpose of the Workshop was to draw the attention of the people for the protection and conservation of honeybees and other pollinators. The Chairman, Dr. Munir Ahmed also said that Honey Production is a very useful business in Pakistan. Honey production and beekeeping are environ-mentally friendly practices and these non-farming business activities have the poten-tial to provide a wide range of economic contributions.Director, Honeybee Research Institute (HBRI), NARC said that the workshop will help in creating more employment and business opportunities for farmers, rural development and economic empowerment of household rural women through training and transfer of modern beekeeping techno-logies. In the technical sessions of the Work-shop, the trainees and participants learned Queen Rearing and stock improvement, queen rearing methods (traditional and non-traditional), choosing the best stock (hive) to raise queens, grafting frame honey com-position, quality control parameters, granu-lation and quality grading and Preparation of honey samples for testing and analysis.

Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC, Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, DG, NARC and Director Honeybee Research Institute are sitting on stage on during concluding session of Four Days Beekeeping Training Workshop organized by Honeybee Research Institute (HBRI) at NARC on Apr. 18.

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Published By: Directorate of Scientific Communication & Publication, National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad. Managed & Muhammad Fiaz Joyia, Director (DSC&P), Ahmad Mahmood-uz-Zaman, Sr. Editor (English); Photographers:- Faraz Ahmed; Production:- Abdul Rehman Khan.

Edited By:-

Wheat Travelling Seminar 2019; Wheat Seminar to provide agri. scientists an opportunity to observe wheat crop across the country and work for its development: Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah, Chairman Standing Committee for NFS&R

One day travelling wheat seminar on culti-vation of new wheat varieties and introduce ridge sowing method organized by CIMMYT at PARC-Arid Zone Research Institute, Umerkot was held on March 20, 2019. Wheat experts visited Mazhar Dars Agriculture, Farm near Umerkot where wheat variety TJ-83 was found yellow leaf rust disease. The visitors discussed about this threat and concluded that this is effect of the climate change and prolong winter

season and needs to address the issue with suitable alternatives i.e. introduction of new varieties, sowing method (Drill method), use of balance fertilizers, seed quantity, irrigation, weed control and seed storage method.Senator Syed Muzafar Hussain Shah, Chairman Senate Standing Committee on National Food Security & Research said this wheat seminar has been a big success as it

Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah, Chairman Senate Standing Committee for NFS&R, Dr. Munir Ahmad Chairman PARC and others are sitting on stage on the occasion of “Travelling Wheat Seminar” held at PARC-AZRI, Umerkot Sindh on Mar. 20.)

China keen to accelerate the development of Agriculture Sector in Pakistan in collaboration with PARC: Dr. Munir Ahmed

A Chinese Delegation on Pak China Socio-Economic Joint Working Group headed by DU ZHENLI, Director / Prof. of Engineer-ing, Overseas Economic Cooperation Deptt. China has visited Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Head Quarters, Islamabad and held meeting with Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC for Pak-China Collaboration in Agriculture Sector under CPEC.On the occasion, Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC acknowledged the support of China in various projects of PARC. In a meeting with Chinese Delegation, he gave a detailed presentation about PARC, its mission and vision to achieve sustainable food security and poverty alleviation thro-ugh knowledge and innovation.Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC also

briefed the delegation about presence of PARC in the Country, National Agricultural System of Pakistan, PARC discipline of in-house research, i.e, Plant Sciences, Natural Resources, Animal Sciences, Agricultural Engineering and Social Sciences. He also highlighted the Pakistan Agricultural Scenario and PARC major achievements. Chairman PARC further added that agriculture and socio economic develop-ment are also included in Pak-China Economic Corridor (CPEC).In the meeting, Pak- China experts also exchanged the agricultural information and discussed the areas of mutual interest to accelerate the development of Agriculture sector in Pakistan.DU ZHENLI, Director / Prof. of

Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC meeting with Chinese delegation of Pak-China Socio-Economic Joint Group headed by DU ZHENLI, Director / Prof. of Engineering, Overseas Economic Cooperation Deptt. China at PARC on Feb. 28.

PARC Employees hold protest against non-payment of 10%

increase in salary & pension in Budget 2018-19

Govt. should avoid anti agri and anti-farmers policies, says protesters.M/o Finance, Islamabad has made liability file a rolling stone, Roshan Zada, General Secretary, PARSA, PARC

Islamabad (25th April, 2019): Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) is an apex organization in the country. PARC has Establishments all over the country working for betterment of the livelihood of the resource poor farming community in the country as well as to ensure food security through better crop production. Despite of decreasing agricultural fertile land PARC scientists try their level best to self sufficient Pakistan in food grains as well as to ensure food security in the country.It is the duty of Govt. of Pakistan to protect the rights of Govt. servants / employees by providing sufficient funds to meet their needs regarding salary and allowances. The Govt. of Pakistan has announced 10% increase in salary & pension of all Govt. emp loyees work ing i n d i f f e r en t organizations during budget speech of financial year 2018-19. The same increase in salary and pension were not given to PARC employees till to date by Govt. of Pakistan, Ministry of Finance, Islamabad and has made liability file a rolling stone between M/o National Food Security & Research and M/o Finance.PARC also submitted their liability grant of Rs. 1352/- million to M/o National Food Security & Research during July, 2018 but no funds released by the M/o Finance, Govt. of Pakistan to PARC till to date.In the light of the situation created by Govt. of Pakistan, a joint action committee of PARSA PARC & Employees Association EAPARC hold a strong & peaceful protest against the attitude of M/o Finance, Govt. of Pakistan and demanded release of funds of Rs. 1352/- million as liability grant to meet the funds of PARC employees on account of 10% increase in salary, pension, commutation, PM family assistance package for deceased employees, 50% arrear of rental ceiling.On behalf of PARC employees, members of joint action committee of PARSA & EAPARC, Dr. Tariq Sultan, Mr. Roshan Zada, Rao Shah Jahan, Azizullah Shah, Altaf Sher, Rana Maqsood, Ch. Aslam Gujjar, Syed Sajid Naqvi and Dr. Zahida Fatima addressed to the participants of protest and demanded to Prime Minster of Pakistan and Chief Justice Supreme Court of Pakistan to fulfill the requirement of

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News Jan Apr V31 N1 Con - Pakistan Agricultural Research ... · Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman, PARC in his augural address, welcomed all the disting-uished guests specially from Nepal