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

(Central Secretariat) ********

12th February 2015

Subject: Monthly Major Activity Report of PARC for January 2015 Chairman’s Activities

i. Chairman, PARC DR. Iftikhar Ahmad Visited Sukkur, Khairpur and Larkana. During his visit comprehensive meeting was held with Ex-Minister Sindh Mr. Qasim Jiskani and farmers organizations from Umerkot, Sanghar, Sakrand, Shaheed Benazirababd (Nawabshah), Nousheharo Feroze, Kahirpur and Sukkur. The Chairman PARC discussed the issues of the farmer’s community.

ii. Chairman PARC alongwith Mr. Jiskani & NGOs’ representatives visited the solar date drier and witnessed its performance.

iii. Chairman paid a visit to the Animal Feed Mill, Naudero, Larkana and discussed the activities for the handing over of mill to University. He also held a meeting with Dr. Perveen Shah, Vice Chancellor Shah Abdul University Khairpur. During the meeting the activities of the both organizations were shared. VC of SALU requested Chairman PARC to establish Horticultural garden at SALU. The Chairman PARC directed Director AZRI (PARC) Umerkot for the establishment of horticultural garden at SALU. Director AZRI Umerkot has been declared as focal person from PARC and Dr. Ghulam Sarwar Markhand Director Date Palm Research Institute SALU as focal person from SALU Khairpur.

iv. Chairman PARC also visited tissue culture laboratory at Date Palm Research Institute, field station of DPRI and Herbarium at SALU Khairpur.

Plant Sciences Division

S.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of the task

1 Research & Development

1.1 Southern-zone Agricultural Research Centre (SARC), Karachi: Evaluation/Screening of National Wheat Germplasm against wheat rusts and epidemiological studies of wheat rusts: Experiment is in progress to evaluate the resistant potential of advance breeding material under natural and artificial conditions. All the nurseries were fully germinated and germplasm were in tillering stage. Performance evaluation of 21 exotic potato varieties

Potato exotic varieties for evaluation were sown well prepared ridges. Study on Investigating the Shelf life of Fruits and Vegetables: The results showed that the temperature, relative humidity and duration of exposure had significant impact on the weight loss and other quality attributes of Bitter Gourd.

Heavy Metal Analysis: A total of fifteen (15) samples of wheat (trade samples) were collected from load-port Karachi. Results of the activity revealed that average metal (15.19µg/Kg) was found in samples which were within the permissible limits (30µg/Kg) as provided by WHO/FAO.

Analysis of Sample for Aflatoxin: Commercial sample of wheat and animal feed were analysed for aflatoxin through ELISA technique. A range of 0-2.69 and 3.34 ppb of total aflatoxin was estimated, respectively.

Rodent Control: Evaluation of Vegetable Oils as taste enhancers against Norway rat, all tests oil additives showed potential of preference against non-additive under no-choice test, however the difference recorded was non-significant.

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1.2 National Sugar Crops & Tropical Horticulture Research Institute

(NSTHRI), Thatta:

Total of 189 sugarcane genotypes are being maintained for flowering study and fuzz collection at experimental farm, Thatta. Out of total 189 genotypes/varieties, 63 have booted and 48 have flowered up to 31st December 2014.

Total 8 kg fuzz has been collected from coastal areas of district Thatta i.e. Garho, Ghoroa bari, Dhandhari and Pir Patho.

Insect pest Infestation: Insect pest Infestation data was recorded from all Sugarcane varietal development trials. Top borer: 4.70, 3.57, 00, 00 and 00. %, respectively. Stem borer: 00, 00, 3.45, 00 and 00, respectively. No Root borer infestation was observed. Furthermore, 3% leaf infestation of grasshoppers was observed in

sugarcane crop at NSTHRI Makli farm.

Plastic Mulching Trial: The experiment on Plastic Mulching technology was conducted at Makli farm, Thatta. The results of the experiment revealed that maximum cane yield (126.66 t/ha) was obtained from the plots mulched with Chinese plastic film. However, the plots having no mulch exhibited cane yield (105.80 t/ha).

Sweet Corn Variety Trial: Sweet Corn variety Ohisma-88 is being maintained at Makli farm. Germination (67.80%) and average plant height (13.42cm) was observed.

Maintenance of Fruits Plants: Different fruit plants are being managed properly at NSTHRI, farm. The survival and initial growth of Lemon, Chicku and Ber plants was better with fresh branching except few plants were found weak. In case of Falsa, the survival and initial growth was not satisfactory.

Banana Tissue Culture: Banana varieties i.e. B-10, Pisang and W-11 are being propagated. Total 1672 shoots of banana are under multiplication/sub-culturing, 697 plants are under rooting and total 200 plants are under hardening process.

Sugarcane Tissue Culture: Sugarcane varieties, YT-53, Thatta 300 and Thatta-910 are being multiplied through tissue culture technique. Total 51 shoots are under multiplication/sub-culturing.

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

Introduced leguminous Crop as intercropping in tea and to check their effect on physiology characteristics of tea and soil fertility.

Nine pea’s varieties were evaluated under the prevailing climatic condition. Indicated that Dollar was early germinating and Climax and Olympia was late in germination. Severe disease (root rot) attack was observed on Pea varieties Meteor and Dollar.

Effect of sowing time and seed weight on the nursery performance of peach seedling. Maximum shoot growth (58.35 cm), No. of leaves per plant (74.30), Stem diameter (7.81 mm) and root length (24.24 cm) was recorded when nursery was sown on 10th November 2013 in 4g seed weight.

It was observed that 12 g seed / walnut sown on ridges obtained maximum plant height (87.4 cm) and stem diameter (16.85 mm).

Managed 58 KIWI plants brought from NIPAL/HRI NARC.

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Pruned 3.00 acre Tea at 75 cm height for re-growth.

Managed 7720 budded/ grafted stone fruit nursery plants.

Managed the cutting nursery of Fig (2000 plants), pomegranate (2600 Plants) and plum (3000 plants).

1.4 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan:

Wheat variety NARC 2011 was sown on 25th November to assess its response against loose smut and leaf rust under field conditions. The wheat variety will be assessed against these diseases at booting stage.

1.5 PARC, Field Station, ARI, Tarnab

Twelve entries of indeterminate tomato have been sown vertically under plastic house condition. Plants are growing well and have attained good size.

1.6 PSD, PARC

Collected yield performance data of Rice Hybrid, Autumn Maize Hybrid, S.S. Hybrid, Lucerne Hybrid from different cooperative units across the country.

Received 41 maize hybrids from public research institutions and private seed companies for their performance evaluation during spring-2015 NYMYT trials.

Collected data on oats crop planted at farmer’s fields of villages (Begal and Dhulli) Chakwal/Talagang area. The second cut of oats fodder crop produced 25 t/ha at Begal and first cut of oats fodder crop produced 40 t/ha at Dhulli area.

Results of hybrid rice seed production experiments conducted at 5 locations (NARC, ARI Mingora Swat, NTHRI Shinkiari Mansehra, NSTHRI Thatta and Rice Unit Kala Shah Kaku) were compiled. Thatta was found to be the best location for hybrid rice seed production.

2 Coordination Activities

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

Suspended fumigation firms M/S Progressive and Pentagon was restored on 03-01-2015 because Firms fulfilled all the required formalities for restoration.

Wheat stocks stored at various godowns of Sindh Food Department in Hyderabad District were inspected.

Inspection of PFS providing heat treatment facility for disinfection of wooden pallets located in Korangi Industrial Area Karachi.

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

Scientist of NSTHRI visited Abdul Majeed Nizamani farm near Matli and observed the performance of NSTHRI developed sugarcane varieties and soybean & sunflower fields.

A delegation of Engro-Chemicals visited NSTHRI, Thatta on 21-01-2015.

A Study Visit of about 70 Students of Concept Public School, Thatta led by Mr. Asad Ali Bhatti, Administrator and Teachers had at NSTHRI, Thatta on 22-01-2015.

Progressive growers from district Tando Muhammad Khan and Mirpurkhas, visited the NSTHRI Institute on 26-1-2015.

2.2 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan: o One internee student of Entomology Department, BZU, is working in

PRTS, bio control lab regarding the experiment to develop the resistance in Chrysoperla carnea against different new chemistry and conventional insecticides.

Olive Promotion Project:

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Olive oil extraction facility was provided to the olive growers of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in coordination with the provincial research system.

2.3 Meetings of Member, PSD:

Chairman, PARC New Years address to scientists.

Presentation regarding implementation of the decisions of the 37th BOG.

Review week-presentation of technical division 12,13,15,21 & 22 January,2015.

Meeting of Steering Committee of PSDP Project “Pak China Coop. for Agriculture Research & Development.

Meeting with Ms. Jennifer Nelson Merie, Manager, Global Wheat Program & Dr. Imtiaz,.

National Policy Workshop on Conservation & Management of Pollinators.

Signing ceremony of MoU between PARC & Uni, of AJK, Muzafarabad.

Steering Committee Meeting of the project “Promotion of Olive Cultivation for Economic Dev. and Poverty Alleviation”.

Consultative workshop on the Reformulation of Bio-safety Guidelines. 2.9 Meeting of Directors/Coordinators/PSOs

National Coordinator (Cereal System) PARC participated in the meeting held at MNFS&R on January 01, 2015 to discuss the maize seed availability and price issues in the country.

National Coordinator (Cereal System) PARC participated in the meeting of Monitoring and Evaluation of RADP sub projects Committee held at PARC H.Q. on January 20, 2015 to finalizing the RADP sub-projects reports.

Program Leader (RICE) NARC, participated in Project Steering Committee Meeting of Pak China and IHSPT Projects, held on 15-1-2015.

Program Leader (RICE) NARC, participated in the meeting to finalize “Production Plan of Rice for the Year 2015-16” held on 23-1-2015 at AARI, Faisalabad.

Director/Coordinator Horticulture and Collaborators of ASLP Citrus Project attended annual review & planning Meeting at UAF 7-10, January 2015.

Director/Coord (Wheat) attended the Agronomy Part of WPEP meeting at NARC.

TAC meeting: PSO(CP-II) Assisted Member, PSD to process 07 projects (01 project CS-155 of 6th ALP batch & 06 projects of ALP 7th ALP Batch CS-169, CS-316, CS-317-A & 317-B, CS-318 & CS-319) for TAC meeting.

ALP 7th Batch: 12 projects (CS-024, CS- 034, CS-52, CS-62 & 084, CS-095, CS-109, CS-120, CS-203, CS-317-A, CS-317-B, & CS-319) were processed for revision by the PIs.

Comments on ALP projects: Processed 07 mid year & quarterly Tech. Progress Reports for technical comments.

Assembly question: PSO(CP-II) Assisted Member, PSD in preparation of reply of assembly question No. 181 on tea.

All Director/Coordinators except Coordinator (Cereal System) visited Gilgit Baltistan from 21 to 31 January 2015 to asses the present status of agriculture in the relevant areas.

The program leader sugarcane visited Al-Moiz and Chashma Sugar Mills, D. I. Khan to observe germination and performance of Chinese sugarcane varieties and to record germination data in sugar beet adaptability trials at D. I. Khan as well as 99/TDA, Karor.

List of chickpea and lentil germplasm from ICARDA for the Year 2015-16 was sent to all collaborators and asked them to submit their requisitions.

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3

Dissemination of research results/ new technologies

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

Scientist of NSTHRI attended and delivered a lecture regarding effect of climate change on agriculture in a seminar on “Effect of climate change on coastal zone” organized by Fisher Folk Forum at Press club, Thatta on 01-01-2015.

Visited of group of Fruit and Vegetable Exporters to VPCI/SARC to discuss urban rat control strategy in storage followed by Seminar at SARC/PARC.

3.2 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan:

600 no. of Trichogramma egg cards were prepared.

(13) no. of cultural plates of Chrysoperla carnea has been prepared. 3.3 PSD, PARC Coordination o Traveling wheat seminar report 2014 (March 07 to April 07) was

distributed to all concerned.

4 Capacity Building / Training/ Visit

4.1 Southern-zone Agricultural Research Centre (SARC), Karachi: o BS, Agriculture (Plant Protection students) from department of

Agriculture & Agri-business Management, University of Karachi visited SARC institutes.

o A Study Visit of about 70 Students of Concept Public School, Thatta led by Mr. Asad Ali Bhatti, Administrator and Teachers had at NSTHRI, Thatta on 22-01-2015. The students were briefed regarding different research and development activities of the institute. They also visited Tissue culture lab, Soil & Water testing lab and Sugarcane quality analysis lab.

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

Conducted one month internship training programme for 03 students of B.Sc. (Agri.) Hons. Part IV, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, Sindh.

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

Arranged one day training/workshop on 16-01-2015 for farming community to motivate for tea plantation under ALP project “Participatory Development of Tea Value Chain Around Mansehra Areas”. Twenty five growers from different union council of Mansehra participated in training.

Supervised 02 B.Sc Agriculture students from University of Haripur. 4.4 PARC Research & Training Station (PRTS), Multan

Regarding fruit fly project PRTS, Scientists visited Rahim Yar Khan Project area and held meeting with cluster farmers and the other agricultural offices of Rahim Yar Khan district. PRTS, team finalized and hired two service providers recommended by NGO’s (NRSP) to provide field advisory services to farmers of project area.

Natural Resources Division

S.#. Official Task / Activity

Status of Task

1. Research & Development

Balochistan Agricultural Research & Development Centre (BARDC), Quetta

Sowing of commercial wheat varieties Tijaban-10, Shalkot-14, Pirsabak-13, AZRI-96, NARC-9, Shahkar-13, NARC-11, Pak-13, Zardana-89, Chakwal and Local White for seed multiplication has been completed in Naseerabad, Jaffarabad, Kharan and Sibi districts.

Two Chickpea & lentil trials completed & germination of these crops upto 80 % was recorded.

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Epidemiology, diagnosis and control of small ruminants’ cestodes at upland Balochistan and assessment for proper control of cestode infection in sheep are in progress.

Reproductive and productive performance of Harnai sheep cross with Balochi ram at BARC-Tomagh Station is in progress. Male-lambs from Balochi-ram cross with Harnai ewes showed higher birth weight (15 kg) compared with Harnai-ram / Harnai-ewes (11.76 Kg) during the month. All the experimental sheep were vaccinated against enterotoxaemia.

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

The PSDP project on up-gradation of AZRI to AZRC has been approved for initiation with a first year allocation of 20 million rupees. Initial activities are planned as per instructions of the Chairman PARC in a special meeting called for this purpose.

Reviews of the ALP projects submitted by AZRI scientists are under process.

Pulses trials on Chickpea Kabuli, desi and lentil are growing well and hand weeding is being done. Flowering has been initiated in some very early entries of chickpea.

Lentil and chickpea progeny blocks and germplasm are growing well and weeding was done manually.

Rapeseed variety Takwara sown on 18 acres for Seed multiplication is on flowering stage and irrigation was applied during the month.

Rapeseed (Mohsin-12) fertilizer doze study and Mustard’s F3 population are growing well; pod formation started in most entries.

Berseam fodder crop sown at 10 acres for income generation and soil reclamation is on 2nd cutting stage.

Quality seed production of chickpea NIFA-2005 variety sown on 18 acres is growing well after rainfall received during the month.

Date-palm and guava orchards were maintained and necessary agronomic practices like farmyard manure addition and fertilizer dose application were carried out. Fruits of Ber are gaining size and irrigation applied to orchard.

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

Better water management in artesian flow is ensured at a location in Gara Akhundzada. 300 feet concrete pipe & PCPS lining is planned along-with a water tank and a fish pond. The Swiss-IC has also shown interest in development of artesian wells in the area.

The fish in the pond developed under ALP project is well maintained & a fresh stock of fish is now developed.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur

National Uniform Wheat Yield Trial (Rabi 2014-15): The irrigation and application of fertilizer along with other agronomic practices have been carried out.

National Uniform Yield & Chick pea (Kabuli) and lentil Adaptation Trial Rabi 2014-15: All the chickpea trials at AZRI, Bahawalpur Farm are at its good vegetative growth stage and their weed eradication, thinning has been done. The Lentil trial is excellent in growth at arid conditions of Bahawalpur farm. Weed eradication and hoeing has been completed.

National Uniform Fodder Yield Trial (NUYFT) on Berseem and Oats Rabi 2014-15: The first cut of the trial has been done. The fertilizer application along with irrigation has been done. All the agronomic practices i.e. weed eradication, hoeing etc has been carried out in oat trial .

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Adaptation of four medicinal plants at AZRI, Bahawalpur; Ajwain, Kalvangi, Saunf and Taramira are at initial growth stage.

Farmer’s Training and Demonstration on Innovative Practices for Farmers of Lesser Cholistan and Bahawalpur Division has been completed.

The wheat crop is at lush green at this stage. Irrigation along with Urea fertilizer application has been applied according to the requirement of each field at both the farms of the institute (Bahawalpur & Cholistan).

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

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

An experiment on Sweet Corn F I “Sun cone 88” has been conducted at AZRI Farm Umerkot to see adoptability of sweet corn in local climatic conditions. The seed was received from the Chairman PARC/Japan. Mustard crop has been cultivated on the border side to protect the cold winds/breeze of winter. Seed blight disease was observed in sweet corn and fungicide “Thiofenate” was applied @ 160gm/acre. Carbofuran 3G were applied 2-3 grians/plant in top s of the plants to prevent bollworm attack.

A Solar desalinization unit has been installed at AZRI Umerkot. Four Solar Panels were installed with 60 gallon storage tank. Further two more Solar desalinization units are also installed one at village Nawab Jee Dhani in Thar and second one at Haveli Village Chhore. The research data on temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind velocity, sunshine hours and daily discharge of untreated, treated and drain water are being collected on daily basis. Water samples were analyzed. The data indicated that TSS of treated water was 250 ppm followed by untreated 2093 ppm and drain water 2701 ppm respectively. The EC of treated water was 0.39 dSm-¹ followed by untreated water at 3.27 and drain water at 4.22 dSm-¹respectively. The discharge of volume of treated recorded at 56 litre per day. Moreover, the meteorological data indicated minimum temperature 18.50C and maximum 25.40C and relative humidity at 24.75% during this month.

All range trees, grasses, herbs and shrubs are at winter stress 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. Germination has been observed but germination percentage is very low due to cool climatic condition. Other regular practices are going in progress. All the grasses are harvested for getting more production in spring and better spouting. Weeding was carried out.

The sapling of Acacia nilotica (1500 plants), Zizyphus (500 plants), Hinna (1200 plants), Albizia lebek (1000 plants), Phog stem cutting (Calligonus polygonides) (1000 plants), Rohero (500 pants), Acacia Parkinsonia (500 plants), Iple Iple (1000 plants) and Moninga (1000 plants), are developed at MARVI Nursery. 1000 plants of Conocorpus were handed over to NSTHRI (PARC) Thatta. Furthermore 2700 cuttings of conocorpus are planted for propagation.

An experiment to see the performance of various varieties/cultivars of cluster bean was conducted at AZRI Umerkot. Eight varieties/cultivars i.e AZRI sel-2013, Indian, local guar and five genotypes having their code nos. 24275, 24283, 24289, 24290 and 24291 were cultivated with plot size 1.8mx4m and with three replications. The genotypes are threshed. A demo plot of four Guar varieties i. Thar bean, Malvi Bean, B.R- 99 and B.R

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Super-99 acquired from ARI, Tando Jam has been harvested and threshed. The compilation of yield data is in process.

A trial of Sesame was cultivated at AZRI Farm. Eight varieties/cultivars i.e 100/2, Pr.19/9, K-509, Sehwan, S-117, P2-125, L 100/5 and S-17 (check) with plot size 1.35mx5m. Having three replications were planted on 23-7-2014. A demo plot of sesame varieties TH-03, TH-06 and S-17 was also cultivated. Furthermore 10 germplasm of sesame cultivars were also cultivated at AZRI Farm. The varieties have been threshed. The research data is being compiled.

National Uniform Yield Trial on Guar was conducted at AZRI Farm in Kharif season 2014. Seven entries were cultivated. The trial has been threshed and yield data is under compilation process.

The experiment on sunflower varietal trial was conducted at AZRI farm. Ten varieties of sunflower were cultivated. In addition 16 germ plasm of Sunflower were planted. The data and results are under final process.

42 germ plasm /genotypes of cluster bean collected from IABGR (NARC), DG (SARC) and AZRI was cultivated in the field. High yielding and better performance germ plasm will be selected for further studies.

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

The data of grafted Ber during the reported period indicated that an average of plant height, plant girth and plant canopy recorded were at 294cm, 28cm and 460cm, respectively. The data has been recorded on weekly basis to achieve the best water use efficiency and uniformity coefficient. Monitoring and maintenance are continued. Internal paths weeds were cleaned. Irrigation application was applied as per plant requirement on daily basis. The ber fruits are being ripening overall two picking were carried out. Yield parameters like No. of fruits, total fruits, weight of fruit, size of fruit per plant are being recorded.

The growth of Mulberry, Chiku and Falsa plants is going excellent. The pruning of falsa plants will be carried out in the month of February. The grafted ber are also introduced in arid region of Thar through the collaboration of Research and Development Foundation (RDF) and Sindh Agriculture Development Association (SADA) NGo’s.

Forty plants of grapes varieties were planted after changing of soil for demonstration to farmers, the survival rate of plants are 70%. Hybrid tomatoes and onion are also intercropped under a demo drip irrigation system.

A demo plot of Cumin seed crop has been conducted at AZRI Umerkot on 07-01-2015, plant to plant and row to row distance at 1x1 ft has been designed. Two irrigations were applied. The germination of crop was recorded. Data is being collected.

Ten mother and ten baby trials of four wheat varieties under CIMMYT are conducted in District Umerkot. The agronomical data is being recorded.

An experiment on ten international Tomato varieties has been conducted at Mian Muhammad Saleem Agri. Farm Kot Ghulam Muhammad. The varieties viz Avto 1422, Avto 1456, Avto 1417, Avto 1420, Avto 1288, Avto 1405, Avto 1418, Avto Avto 1424, Avto 1409 and Avto 1414 are cultivated. The collection of tomato seed from all varieties is being made and seed is

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under drying process.

14 acre of mustard crop has been cultivated at AZRI Farm during the Rabi season. The crop is at flowering stage. The regular cultural practices are going accordingly.

The bio fertilizer plant become functional and fertilizer has been made. Four irrigations were applied to Date palm orchard. 04 acre new land is being developed to install drip irrigation system on Solar energy for cultivation of grafted ber orchard. The further research work is under process. Four acre orchard of grafted ber (Gola variety) has been planted on newly developed land.

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit 1. Wheat ICARDA/CIMMYT Wheat Improvement Program.(ICWIP)

CWANA 14th Elite Spring Bread Wheat Yield Trial (CWANA 14th ESBWYT) 24 entries with two replications were sown at MARC, Juglote for evaluation of yield performance under the climatic condition of Gilgit-Baltistan was managed during the reported month.

18th International Winter Wheat Yield Trial for Irrigated Areas (18TH IWWYT-IR) 2014-2015. 40 entries with two replications were carried out for their performance under climatic conditions of GB, Juglote was managed during the reported month.

ICARDA/CIMMYT Wheat Improvement Program.14th Spring Bread Wheat Observation Nursery (CWANA 14th SBW-ON) 2013 -114. 150 Entries including one local check were conducted at MARC was managed during the reported month.

National uniform wheat trial (NUWYT) 40 entries with two replications were sown at MARC; Juglote was managed during the reported.

33 improved wheat varieties/advance lines collected from NARC were sown at MARC during the reported month.

11 improved varieties of wheat collected from different Research institutes were sown with three replications at MARC, was managed during the reported month.

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

2. Fodder Section

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

Shaftal was sown in three acres for soil improvement as well as for livestock feeding was managed during the reported month.

3. 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.

Deciduous fruit plants were maintained during the reported month. 4. Vegetable section.

Sowing of summer vegetable seeds in plastic tunnel at MARC, were done during the reporting month, for further multiplication and research purpose.

Cultivation of wild pistachio seeds on different research trials were done at MARC, for further propagation and multiplication

5. Natural Resource Research Program

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10 soil samples were analyzed for ph, Ec, N-NO3, P & K.

Leaf samples prepared for analysis of various tests. Project proposal. Revised the work plan for the newly established Natural

5. Resources Research Program Fisheries (Trout)

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

Breeding of trout is in progress.

Data regarding growth increment is being collected for statistical analysis.

About 100000 eggs were obtained from the female fish during the reporting month and the spawning process is going on.

(4) Local / Betal goats were successfully crossed with Betal Bucks during the reported month.

(25) Local cows were directly crossed with Jersey breeding bull during the reported month.

4 local sheep’s were crossed with Damani breed. 2 Coordination

Activities Balochistan Agricultural Research & Development Centre (BARDC) PARC, Quetta

Six students of Sardar Bhadar Khan Woman University (SBKWU) planted their field research trials under the supervision of BARDC scientist at BARDC, Quetta.

Six students of Agricultural College Balelli, Quetta conducting their B. Sc. internship at BARDC, Quetta.

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

Multi-location yield trial of chickpea and rapeseed genotypes of NIFA are growing well and rapeseed trial was irrigated and hand weeding was done in the trials.

Puma Super (Weedicide) was sprayed on trials contributed by CIMMYT and ICARDA i.e. 36th International Durum Yield Trial Mediterranean Dry land, 22nd Semi-arid wheat yield trial, 32nd Semi-arid wheat screening nursery and 14th Dry land spring bread wheat yield trial. Overall growth conditions of all trials have been improved with rainfall received during the month.

The trial being conducted in coordination with Agriculture University & regional climate change center, Peshawar sponsored by Inter-Cooperation (IC) is growing well and maintained. Recourse scientist of this activity also visited Peshawar to attend a multi stake holder workshop in this regard.

Growth of chickpea (Chickpea International Fusarium wilt Nursery 2014-15) and lentil (Lentil International Elite Nursery 2014-15) F3 nurseries contributed by ICARDA has been improved with rainfall and weeding was done manually.

Chickpea (Desi & Kabuli), lentil, mustard, rapeseed, wheat (Rain fed) National Uniform Yield trials and preliminary yield trial on mustard are growing well. Hand weeding was done in pulses and oilseed experiments and weedicide (Buctaril Super) was applied in wheat trial. Rapeseed and mustard trials were irrigated during the month.

Irrigation was applied to sugar beet crop sown on 9 acre area in collaboration with Al-Moiz Industries, D.I. Khan. The growth condition of crop, after earthling up through special designed rotavator, is much improved.

Two synopses of M. Sc (Hons) agronomy students from Faculty of Agriculture, Gomal University, D.I. Khan were reviewed and necessary amendments were recommended.

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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.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

Coordination with local progressive farmers and NGO’s like RDF, SOFT, SADA, Larr Humanitarian Development Foundation, Thar Deep, SCOPE, Basic- DF, MDF and provincial Agriculture Department is continued.

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit

Coordination with Karakuram International University Gilgit-Baltistan. Ms. C students come from KIU for soil analysis as well as Students of fruit processing also visits.

A coordinators team in supervision of D.G. planning has conducted visit to MARC and all district of Gilgit-Baltistan for future planning and coordination with alien departments of agriculture during the month of January.

Distribution of seeds of wheat improved varieties during the reported month was carried out

3 Dissemination of research results new technologies

Balochistan Agricultural Research & Development Centre (BARDC)

Seed of advanced wheat varieties (Shalkot-14 & Tijaban-10) and Barley seed was distributed among the farmers of different districts of Balochistan.

Farmer field day was conducted at BARDC; farmers were briefed regarding importance of new research technologies & agronomic practices and varietal impact on yield.

Agro-meteorological data were recorded from BARDC observatory unit. No rain received during the month under report and min -9oC was recorded

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

Farmers’ live questions were answered through Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation, D.I. Khan under native radio program “Wasdian Johkan” on weekly basis.

Agro-meteorological data were recorded from AZRI observatory unit. Maximum (26 0C) and minimum temperature (020C) was recorded on 02-01-2015 and 01-01-2015 respectively. Windblown @ 04 km / hour on 26-01-2015. Twenty eight (28 ml) rainfall occurred during the month under report.

Special interviews of AZRI scientists were broadcasted on PBC, D.I. Khan (Radio-Pakistan) on their 34th birthday.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Bahawalpur

Different beneficiaries of AVRDC-AZRI, Bahawalpur have been visited; the cucumber under protected tunnel was affected with incidence of Downy mildew disease at different locations due to cold and humid weather. The growers were suggested to control the fungal disease with cultural methods as well as by spraying Antracol @ 2g / litre of water.

The tomato nursery transplantation in the protected tunnels has been completed and tomato crop was quite healthy vigorous and disease free.

The sowing of Chilies has been started in the Month of January. Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

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

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are introduced among farmers. Interview of Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah and Director AZRI was broadcasted on Indus-FM radio Umerkot on 26-01-2015.

Mountain Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit

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

4 Capacity building & Training/visits

Balochistan Agricultural Research & Development Centre (BARDC) PARC, Quetta

Two farmer’s field days conducted at Jhallmagsi and Jaffarabad.

One day training of farmers on olive promotion was conducted at Quetta.

Students of Lasbella University of agriculture and Marine Sciences visited BARDC

Meeting with SMEDA and Balochistan university of Information Technology and Management Sciences.

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

Two trials of Ph. D. scholar, sown under MoU signed between PARC & Gomal University, D.I. Khan are growing well and irrigation was also applied during the month.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI), Bahawalpur.

Farm Manager/SSO, AZRI Umerkot visited Islamabad to participate in Post Course Workshop of the training Irrigation and Water Resources during January 22-23, 2015 and received the Certificate by Australian High Commission Mr. Peter in the Recognition Ceremony.

He also visited the HRI, NARC to collect the Fruit Plants for the development of Mother Orchard of Fruit plant at AZRI, Bahawalpur.

Miss Huma Arshad M. Phil student Biotechnology Department BZU, Multan on the instruction of Dr. Nazim Hussain had meeting Mr. Malik Muhammad Yousaf, Director AZRI, Bahawalpur and he assigned the task to complete her requirement to Mr. Jahangir Shah SSO regarding the Sample Collection for her study on “Determination of Molecular Markers for Sex determination in Date palm using RAPD & SCAR Techniques”.

Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) PARC, Umerkot

Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah Chairman, Senate Standing Committee for National Food Security and Research along with progressive farmers of surrounding the Umerkot visited AZRI Umerkot on dated 26-01-2015. After the field visit Honorable Chairman Senate Committee visited Dr. Hafeez Halipoto Hall and chaired the meeting of farmers and AZRI Scientists. Dr. Attaullah Khan Director briefed about the research work and achievements of AZRI Umerkot. The Chairman emphasized the coordination and cooperation between research institute and farmers to take benefit form the latest technologies developed. He also appreciated the research oriented work of AZRI scientists and staff. He further added in his valuable comments that “it is a matter of great pleasure to see the growth and progress of PARC institute at Umerkot. Insha Allah this will be up-graded to the level of a Centre, and will cater to the needs of Agricultural Research for the desert and the Barani area of this region”. In the end he advised that research finding of this institute must reach at the door step of farmers.

Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam has deputed three students of B.Sc. (Hons) final for their internship program at this institute.

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Animal Sciences Division

S.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of Task

1 Research and Development activities (core/development budget)

Animal Health Program:

Under PPR ALP project, a local isolate of PPR virus (PAK-Fjg-07/NARC4) from AHP repository is being attenuated for the development of PPR vaccine by serial passages on Vero cells. During current month 38 serial passages were completed.

Virus neutralization test (VNT) was conducted for two field isolates using hyper immune sera raised against PPR in sheep and goats at LRS.

A new modified Vero cell line CHS-20 expressing SLAM receptors for sheep and goats was successfully revived and maintained.

Repository of different local isolates of PPR and FMD viruses was maintained.

Competitive ELISA was conducted to test the serum samples collected from Tehsil Mithi, Sind in FAO PPR project. A total of 90/160 samples were found positive for PPR.

Under the FMD project, comparative sensitivity of two cell lines (LFBK and LFBKaVB6) was evaluated and it was found that the modified LFBKaVB6 cell line is more sensitive for FMDV isolation. Further assessment of physicochemical properties of this modified cell line is in process.

Successfully maintained and sub-cultured Vero and LFBK cell line. The LFBKaVB6 cell line for the recovery of FMD was revived and the already grown viruses on LFBK were used for comparison of two cell lines.

TCID50 of eight genotypically characterized FMDV isolates was calculated and these viruses were used in virus neutralization assay conducted for vaccine matching studies with Merial and Arriah vaccines. Both the vaccines have good match for O but not for A and Asia-1. There is a need to change the vaccine strain used in these vaccines.

Necessary arrangements were made for establishment of Veterinary clinic at ASI, NARC. Banners regarding PARC Vet clinic were prepared and displayed at both gates of NARC.

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.Purchase of fixed assets and laboratory remodeling is in progress. Sample collection and survey of SME feed millers was performed.

An experiment entitled “Nutritional evaluation of corn silage bales influenced by storage conditions” with collaboration of Livestock Research Station has been carried out. Laboratory analyses of the silage are under process. Results to date showed that silage is highly nutritive for ruminants.

An experiment entitled “Effect of diets with different feeding concentrate ratios for fattening of buffalo calves” has been started on 15-12-2014. Data on daily feed intake and fortnightly weight gain is being recorded.

ALP funded project entitled “Evaluation of Bio-available Phosphorus in Indigenous Feedstuffs for Poultry” is in progress. Under this project, a trail on the broiler chicken has been carried out. Laboratory analyses is in progress

Animal Product Improvement Program:

In Small Ruminant Research (SRR) section of the APIP, the RADP Sub-Project “Study on Production Potential of Different Sheep and Goats for

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Mutton Production under High Input System” was completed on December 31, 2014.

In the Dairy and Meat Technology section of the APIP, 5 samples of commercial yogurt were streaked on MRS and M17 Agar plates. Ten isolates of Gram-positive rods and seven isolates of Gram-positive cocci have been isolated from these samples.

Re-tender for purchase of capital items under the RADP Project has been floated on the PARC/PPRA website and is due to be opened on 18-02-2015.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Program:

Following activities were performed under the project, “Intensification of fish culture to increase per unit area fish production in farm ponds using different managemental inputs”:

An experiment under the theme, “To study the growth performance of carps fed on supplementary fish feeds containing varying levels of proteins i.e. 15, 20 and 25 % CP” is in progress. This experiment has been completed. The data is under the process of statistical analysis for final recommendations.

An experiment under the theme, “Comparison of efficiency of balanced fish feed formulated from locally available feed ingredients having 25%, 30 % and 35 % crude protein for the growth of fry” is in progress. two thousand fries of Rohu and Mori has been brought from Punjab hatchery Islamabad and stocked in concrete raceways for acclimatization. This experiment has been completed. The data is under the process of statistical analysis for final recommendations.

One new PSDP project has been started. Ponds and Hatchery layout has been finalized with the help of “Works Dept” and is under process. Procurement of equipment is also under process.

New RADP funded project entitled “Development of Aquaculture in Lakes Surrounding Sindh Abadgar Sugar Mill, Tando Muhammed Khan through Pan Culture” has been submitted to RADP for sanction and release of budget.

Revised project of PSDP, “Establishment of American channel catfish hatchery at NARC” has been approved by DDWP on 27-1-2015.

Revised PSDP project entitled,” Aquafeed development for culturable carp was submitted for allocation funds.

The AFRP is successfully breeding Guppies and Mollies (ornamental fish) in concrete raceways. This achievement is expected to be a major milestone in breeding of these fishes within the country. Also, the brood stock of ornamental fish is under preparation.

Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

Under PSF project “Investigations on Fertility-Related Biomarkers in Buffalo Semen to reduce male-factor losses (MFLs)”, Pearson’s correlations suggested that % visual motility and % viable sperm with intact acrosome in fresh semen were significantly associated with field fertility (r=0.71, P<0.01; r=0.62, P<0.01, respectively). In frozen-thawed semen, % visual motility, % supravital plasma membrane integrity and % sperm with intact acrosome were significantly correlated with field fertility (r=0.77, P<0.01; r=0.85, P<0.01; r=0.91, P<0.01, respectively), whereas % nonviable sperm with damaged acrosome and % sperm tail abnormalities were negatively correlated with field fertility (r= -0.87, P<0.01; r= -0.55, P<0.05, respectively).

Under the ALP project “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and

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buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination”, 80 non-descript cows have been treated for heat synchronization with CIDR and inseminated at Kot Addu (Dist Muzaffar Garh). Thirty pregnancy tests have been completed.

Under collaborative project entitled “Camel semen cryopreservation”, 2 male and 2 female camels are being maintained by ARGP. Experiment on liquid storage of camel semen has been completed.

Final agreement regarding ALP coordinated project entitled “Genetic improvement of selected indigenous naked neck by crossing with exotic poultry breeds of Rhode Islanad Red and Black Australop” has been submitted to ALP secretariat.

Process for purchase of elite animals under RADP sub-project “Development of ONBS of Nili buffalo and Sahiwal cattle at NARC” has been initiated.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

A total of 1561referral and surveillance samples were received and processed for viral, bacterial and molecular diagnosis. In this regard, 171 molecular diagnosis reactions (PCR, QRT-PCR, RT-PCR & sequencing) and 866 serological reactions including HI, ELISA, PAT, were carried out for major poultry pathogens along with bacteriological evaluation of 49 samples. 31 postmortems were conducted. Overall 18 viruses were isolated and sub typed as 05 H9 AIVs and 02 NDV along with 11 bacteriological isolations. Moreover other poultry pathogens including , IBV, IBD, Adeno and MG were also detected from suspected samples.

Proficiency testing was performed on samples received from GD lab Netherlands. NRLPD lab scored 100% proficiency with outstanding results. Under the HPED project PA and NP genes of AIV H14N3 were sequenced.

Under ALP project vaccination trial of Infectious bronchitis virus for the development of Hyperimmune serum in Specific Pathogen Free chicks has been successfully completed. Financial progress report for the project was prepared and submitted for onward communication. 3 sets of type specific primers for detection of 6 different serotypes IBV through RT-PCR were designed and validated for synthesis.

Under RADP H9N2 project 10 isolates were characterized as low pathogenic by IVPI. Seroconversion was observed in sera from non-vaccinated poultry. Sequencing technique has been standardized for whole genome sequencing of H9N2 viruses.

Under FELTP project Quarterly technical & financial progress reports were prepared and submitted to CDC-USA.

The equipments in NRLPD were calibrated to maintain the accreditation scope.

2 Coordination Activities

Animal Health Program:

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

Tele meeting with the provincial project incharge of PPR project ALP in Punjab, Sindh, KPK, Baluchistan, GB and AJK.

Animal Product Improvement Program:

The beneficiary participants of Badbaan Enterprise Development Forum, Haripur visited the SRR section on 26th December, 2014 to see the small ruminants and their related feeding, housing and research facility.

About 15 surplus crossbred sheep were Auctioned and an amount of Rs.

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0.147 million was deposited to the cashier, NARC. Animal Reproduction and Genetics Program:

Dr. Nemat Ullah Project Director, SPU Khizrabad (Dist. Sargodha) visited ARGP to discuss future collaboration between the two institutes.

Activities regarding DVM internship, DVM Training at API under RADP subproject were coordinated.

One scientist attended two day “National Consultation on Livestock and Dairy Development” at UVAS Lahore.

One scientist coordinated a part of ISDAR-2015 conference at UVAS Lahore.

Aquaculture and Fisheries Program:

Review meeting of PSDP project was attended PSO(Fisheries) at MONFS&R

DDWP meeting was attended by PL(fisheries) at MONFS&R

Meeting with DG NARC on the progress of Development projects, and business plan of Cold Chain RADP project.

National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases:

The NRLPD scientist conducted assessment of two Labs of University of UVAS as an auditor.

3 Dissemination of research results/new techniques (Publications, Research Papers, Articles, Radio TV Talks, Seminars, Symposia, Workshop etc.

Dissemination of Research Products:

Under PATCO, the ANP sold 525 bags of PARC cattle feed, 50 kg milk booster and 5 urea molasses blocks. Also, 60 samples were received for proximate analyses.

In the DMT section of APIP, a batch of plain yoghurt was prepared for marketing on PATCO sale Point Analyzed 6 milk samples from LRS (Average composition: Fat = 4.15; Total Solids = 11.82; SNF = 7.82).

The AFRP sold channel catfish fingerlings and ornamental fishes at an amount of 32480/- under PATCO.

Trainings/exhibitions:

NRLPD prepared course contents on Virology and Immunology for DVM internees for API. Also, poster of achievements under the HPED project was prepared and submitted for presentation in the project closing meeting at Bangkok, Thailand during 18-20 December, 2014.

Two officers of AFP were involved in “Fish Farmer Training” at Mirpur and Chashma organized by Fisheries Development Board.

Publications:

The AHP published one article entitled,” Investigations of Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreaks in Faisalabad District of Punjab, Pakistan during the year 2013” in Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences.

NRLPD submitted a manuscript on "AIV H4N6" in International journal " Research in veterinary sciences.

4 Trainings imparted

Various programs of the ASI are teaching courses Skill Development Program for Agriculture and Livestock Graduates as Service Providers in Agriculture Sector.

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

Five DVM internee students from the University of Poonch, AJK were trained on small ruminant management and production and wool analysis techniques for two weeks w.e.f 29th December, 2014.

In ANP, one MPhil student from PIASA and one PhD student from Gilgit Baltistan are conducting their research work. Fivefarmers were guided on feeding and management of livestock.

In DMT section of the APIP, two MPhil students of the Hazara University are doing research on semi commercial yoghurt project for their theses

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research.

At ARGP research of 03 PhD and 04 M. Phil students is being supervised. Examination panel of one MPhil student has been submitted to PIASA for final approval.

The SRR section of the APIP guided three farmers on small ruminant production aspects.

At AHP, two students from PIASA-NARC completed their research work on comparative sensitivity of various cell lines used for isolation of FMD virus.

Seven fish farmers visited AFP and were briefed about the fish culture system from different areas of Pakistan.

Social Sciences Division

S# Official Task / Activity

Status of Task

1. Research and Development Activities

Draft Report completed for the study ‘’Factors Affecting Mungbean Acreage and Production in Low Intensity Zone of Punjab’’

Data Cleaning has been completed for the study ‘’Economics of relay wheat cultivation in Cotton-Wheat zone of Punjab’’

Data entry and data cleaning has been completed for the study ‘’Prospects of Fish Farming in Saline Area of Rice-Wheat Cropping System’’

Draft report has been completed for the study ‘’Adoption of Recommended Production Practices and their Impact on Citrus Productivity in Punjab’’

Draft report has been completed for the study ‘’Economic Analysis of Turmeric Crop in Kasur District’’

On the Directives of Member SSD, PARC, secondary data collected of the major crops of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since 1965-66 to 1985-86 and data entry is in progress.

The draft report entitled “Tomato Assessment Survey in Bajawar Agency” completed and submitted to Agricultural Research FATA, Tarnab-Peshawar for comments.

The draft report entitled “Onion Assessment Survey in Mohmand Agency” completed and submitted to Agricultural Research FATA, Tarnab-Peshawar.

Research study entitled ‘’Profitability of Agriculture in Different Cropping Systems in Sindh’’ is in progress.

Research study entitled ‘’Identifying the role of Livestock in farming food security and livelihood support in marginal and small sized farming Household in Sindh’’ is in progress

2. Coordination Activities

Mr. Sher Baz Khan, PSO, SSRI, Faislabad attended the meeting with Director wheat and other scientists regarding wheat experiments at Wheat Research Institute, Faisalabad dated 02-01-2015.

Mr. Sher Baz Khan, PSO, recorded to Radio Talks in Directorate of Agri. Information, Agri. Department Govt. of Punjab dated 05.01.2015.

Mr. Sher Baz Khan, PSO attended the meeting of production plan of groundnut for the year 2015-16 dated 09-01-2015.

Dr M. Qasim had meeting with Member SSD and Dr. Akhter Ali, Agri. Economist CIMMYT Pakistan for data analysis of IFPRI/PSSP project titled “Role of Milk Collection Contract in Improving Milk Production and Marketing in Irrigated Punjab

Data collected for the ICARDA coordinated project entitled “Improving Soil Fertility and Soil Health” at D.I.Khan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and report submitted to Mr. Hassnain Shah, SSRI, NARC, research coordinator

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of Socioeconomic component of the project.

Mr. Abdul Hassan and Mr. Arshad Farooq, Senior Scientific Officers, SSRI, Tarnab-Peshawar participated in ICARDA quarterly review meeting.

SSRI team participated in key stakeholder workshop on “Best Irrigation Practices and Management” at MUET, Jamshoro held on 22nd January, 2015.

SSRI team attended three days professional training on “Watershed Rehabilitation and Management on Different Water Saving Technologies” at ATI, Sakrand, on January 28th, 29th and 30th, 2015.

Attend SSRI team two field days on “Ridge Sowing of Wheat” organized by water saving project at Sakrand on 21st and 22nd January, 2015.

3. Dissemination of Information

A Research Paper entitled Assessment of adoption of cotton recommended technologies among area of Irrigated Punjab’’ has been submitted to journal of agricultural research Punjab

Mr. Sher Baz Khan, PSO recorded two Radio Talks in Directorate of Agriculture information, AARI, Faisalabad

“Kanak di fasal whichon jari botian di talfi” (Weed control in wheat)

“Kanak di fasal li khadan da istamal” (Use of fertilizers in wheat crop

Article published on “Cultivation of Mustard” in Daily Ibrat in Sindhi newspaper on 19th January, 2015.

A research paper “Hybrid Vegetable Production in Balochistan Province of Pakistan” has been sent for publishing in Botany General in Karachi, Sindh

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING DIVISION (AED)

S. # Official Task/Activity

Status of Task

1. Research & Development Activities

Modified PC-I on development and indigenization of small scale processing technologies as suggested by Planning Division was submitted to MNS&R for approval of CDWP.

Development of a PC-I on establishment of Post-Harvest and Food Engineering Institute at NARC, Islamabad is under process.

Prepared AED presentation for 38th meeting of BoG.

Prepared final technical report regarding commercialization of wheat straw chopper.

Development and adaptation of farm-scale agricultural technologies for sugarcane crushing, maize stover harvesting, maize drying and palm oil extraction was got approved by RADP.

Tested Planter and transplanter at farmers’ field in Gujranwala for sowing of peas and chili transplanting.

Fabrication of parts of onion planter (like sprocket, metering, furrow opener etc.) is in progress.

Prepared data sheet for field testing and performance evaluation of wood chipper shredder machine.

Conducted two meetings with SDF project team. Discussed how to develop questionnaires for baseline survey of the project.

PC-I entitled “Strengthening of Agricultural Engineering and Women Development Program at PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi (Rs. 843.189 million)” was reviewed and comments submitted to Chairman, PARC.

A project proposal entitled “Post Harvest Management & Value Addition in Production Catchments in SAARC Countries (Indian Components)” was reviewed and comments submitted to SDF, Bhutan.

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PC-1 entitled “Establishment of I.T. and Library Information System for new disciplines of Food and Energy Engineering, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad” was reviewed and comments submitted to Chairman, PARC.

2. Coordinated Activities

Attended meetings in CAWRI related to Alternate Energy activities.

Monitoring & evaluation of RADP sub-projects related to AED were continued.

Monitoring & evaluation of AL funded project of ABEI & CAEWRI were continued.

Prepared sectoral report on Farm Machinery for presentation in Italy by Member (C&M), PARC.

Coordinated with Director (Training), PARC and Director (IC), PARC regarding letters received from international organizations/high commissions of Pakistan in different countries.

3. Dissemination of research results / new technologies

Submitted an article on Advances in Agricultural Mechanization in Pakistan.

Attended all seminars held at NARC, Islamabad

4. Trainings imparted Training imparted to farmers and service providers regarding operation, calibration and repair of Fertilizer band placement drill at BARI, Chakwal

Coordination & Monitoring Division

S. # Official Task/ Activity

Status of Task

1. Coordination Activity

1. Sent letters to the Technical Divisions of PARC regarding:

Inaugural Session of Pak-Belarus Joint Commission (JC) (letter sent on 23-01-2015 to furnish views/comments on draft agenda of first meeting).

Joint Statement issued on the conclusion of 3rd Session of Pak-Russia Inter-governmental Commission (IGC) on trade, economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation from 26th to 28th November, 2014 at Moscow-Russia (sent on 06-01-2015).

Minutes of the meeting held on 01-01-2015, regarding 9th Session of Pak-Jordan JMC to be held at Amman, Jordan (sent on 09-01-2015).

Sent letters to Member (PSD) and Member (ASD) to provide concrete business proposals to be sent to MNFS&R. As Emir of Qatar along with business delegation, desiring to invest in Pakistan is expected to visit Pakistan in March, 2015 (letter sent on 29-01-2015).

2. Sent letters to Section Officer, MNFS&R regarding:

Inter-Ministerial Meeting to discuss preparations for the visit of Emir of the State of Qatar to Pakistan in March, 2015 (concept notes and project proposal submitted on 26-01-2015).

Joint statement issued on the conclusion of 3rd Session of Pak-Russia, Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) on trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation from 26th to 28th November, 2014 at Moscow-Russia (information sent on 22-01-2015).

Minutes of the meeting held on 01-01-2015 regarding 9th Session of Pakistan-Jordan Joint Ministerial Commission to be held at Amman, Jordan (information sent on 22-01-2015.

2nd Session of the Executive Committee on Agriculture to be held on 24-26 March, 2015, November, 2014/in Ankara (Turkey) (Revised/up-dated information sent on 16-01-2015).

Joint Statement issued on the conclusion of 3rd Session of Pak-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) on trade, economic, scientific and

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technical cooperation from 26th to 28th November, 2014 at Moscow-Russia (information sent on 20-01-2015.

3. Sent letters to Research Officer, MNFS&R regarding:

Report of the Second Meeting of Inter Governmental Core Group on Agricultural Research, Extension and Formers Linkage (IGCG-REF) (Implementation Status sent on 06-01-2015), (letter regarding two Focal Points from PARC sent on 09-01-2015).

5th Session of the Pakistan-Tajikistan Joint Commission Pak-Tajik JC to be held at Islamabad (sent on 15-01-2015).

2nd Review of Control Lists (information on Plant Pathogens for export control sent on 09-01-2015 for onward transmission to Strategic Export Control Division, M/o. Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad.

4th Session of South Africa JC held in Pretoria on 19-20 November, 2014 (information on implementation status of the 4th session sent on 13.01.2015).

1. Sent letters to Section Officer, MNFS&R regarding: a. Renewal of the FAO Steering Committee of the High-Level Panel of Exports

(HLPE) on Food Security and Nutrition, (information sent on 22-01-2015). b. 38th Session of the Governing Council of the International Fund for

Agricultural Development (IFAD) from 16-17 February, 2015 at Rome Italy. (Country Statement, Brief & Talking Points prepared for Minister (NFS&R) and sent on 21-01-2015).

2. Sent letters to Research Officer, MNFS&R regarding: a. For 5th SAARC Working Group on Biotechnology (WGBT) meeting to be

held on 28th-29th April, 2015, dates conveyed to SAARC on 13-01-2015. b. For 83rd General Session of the World Assembly of Delegates of the World

Organization for Animal Health (OIE), the nomination of Dr. M. Afzal, Ex-Chairman, PARC as DG (OIE) was sent for approval of Chairman, PARC on 20-01-2015.

1. For payment of PARC’s Annual Membership contribution to CABI (in Pak.

Rupees) for the calendar year, 2015, file was sent to Chairman, PARC for payment approval on 22-01-2015.

2. For payment of Membership Fee to International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movement (IFOAM) corresponded with Dr. Abdul Wahid Jasra, Country Rep. (ICIMOD) on email (submitted Invoice of IFOAM to him on 15-01-2015).

3. For payment of PARC’s Annual Membership Contribution to APAARI for the calendar year 2015, file was sent to the Directorate of Finance, PARC on 20-01-2015 for confirm availability of funds in foreign currency.

4. For payment of PARC’s Annual Membership contribution to RASC for the calendar year, 2015, file was sent to the Directorate of Finance on 22-01-2015 for arrangement of funds in Foreign Currency.

5. The case for payment of the membership fee to centre for Agriculture and Bio-sciences International (CABI), was processed, which was approved by Chairman, PARC.

2. MOU’s a) Letters sent to Technical Divisions for having comments on the draft MoU on Scientific & Technical Cooperation in the field of Agricultural Research between PARC and Agricultural Academy of Bulgaria (letter sent on 23-01-2015).

b) Re-submitted the case to Section Officer, MNFS&F for approval/finalization of MOU between PARC and SRMS, UK by the Government of Pakistan

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(letter sent on 28-01-2015). Arranged signing ceremony of National MOU’s a. MOU b/w PARC & University of Azad Jamu & Kashmir (UAJ&K) MOU b/w PARC & University of Poonch Rawlakot (AJK).

4. Training Forty nine cases of local short term trainings were processed and circulated for the month of January and Seventeen scientists/ officials availed the opportunities in different programs for local trainings in national reputed Institutions at NCRD, PPMI and STI, etc Islamabad. Two scientists were allowed to get admission in MS/M Phil, PhD degree course in national university.

Planning & Development Division

S # Official Task/Activity

Status of Task

3. Revision of new PSDP projects

The revised PC-I of the project title “Up-gradation of Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI) to level of Arid Zone Research Centre (AZRC) D.I.Khan and Establishment of new Adaptive Research cum Demonstration Institutes at Seakach, WANA, South Waziristan Agency, Miranshah, North Waziristan Agency (FATA), Tank and Matora, Lakki Marwat – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” was submitted to the M/o NFS&R and Planning Commission for issuance of Authorization and Administrative Approval. The M/o Planning, Development & Reforms has issued the Authorization whereas the M/o NFS&R has issued the Administrative Approval for execution of the project. The revised PC-Is of five projects were submitted to the M/o NFS&R for consideration in the forthcoming meeting of DDWP.

4. Preparation of new projects for PSDP funding.

The information of nine projects regarding foreign funded projects (non-PSDP) through USAID was provided to the M/o NFS&R.

5. Meeting of (DDWP)

Five projects of PARC were considered in DDWP meeting held on 27th January, 2015. All the projects have been approved. The minutes of DDWP meeting received from M/o NFS&R have been circulated to all concerned

6. Meeting of Steering Committee of PSDP Projects

The meeting of Steering Committees of two on-going projects of PARC were held on 15th January, 2015 at NARC under the chairmanship of Chairman.The minutes of the meetings are being by respective PIs.

7. Procurement of Vehicles Under PARC on-Going Projects being Implemented in Balochistan

As follow-up for procurement of vehicles under following on-going projects of PARC, the requisite information regarding price/invoice of Toyota Single Cabin Pick-up alongwith Tax Exemption Certificate was provided to the M/o NFS&R as desired:

8. Hands-On Training/ Briefing On RBM&E/ Annual Work Plan for MARC Gilgit, MARS Skardu and Chilas

The subject hands-on training/briefing was conducted at MARC Gilgit. The training was held on 23rd & 25th January, 2015 at MARC Gilgit, MARS Skardu and Chilas. Director General, P&D Division, PARC presided over the sessions. All the participants presented their work plans. The M&E team of P&D Division, PARC incorporated their feedback and made necessary corrections in the work plan of all the above mentioned stations.

9. PARC Business Plan Annual work plan received are being discussed with PARC Divisions for

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2013-18 and M&E. improvements and finalization. M&E related input on RADP/ALP new project proposals is going on. Annual report of P&DD for BOG prepared and sent to secretary office.

10. Finalization of Agricultural Research system in Gilgit-Baltistan

Conducted a visit of Gilgit-Baltistan from 21st -30th Jan, 2015 with stakeholders, provincial research scientists/extension officers, NGOs and discussed issues related to agricultural productivity.

11. RADP (Program Officer)

M&E of on-going RADP projects planned and completed in December 2014. 27 projects of all five sectors reviewed along with experts and PD-RADP. Reports prepared, finalized by all team members and communicated to all concerned for implementation. Plan of outstations projects review has been prepared for execution in February 2015.

12. Project on Capacity Building for proposal writing

Spade work for next workshops (AJK and Gilgit Baltistan) is going on. Training planned in February 2015, nominations called from concerned departments.

13. Monitoring of On-going ALP Projects

Continued monitoring of ALP ongoing projects (62) being implemented at various research institutes/universities. Financial and technical progress reports of nine (9) projects collected from PIs examined/evaluated and were forwarded to the Finance Division and technical divisions after found in order for further releases of funds on basis of expenditure reported and budget allocation.

14. Funds Released Funds were released to seven (7) on-going projects after the financial reports were provided by the PIs of the projects and forwarded to Finance Division, PARC.

15. Budget revision The budget break-up for 2014-15 in respect of seven (7) on-going projects revised as per project requirement was examined and processed for approval of the competent authority in the council through technical division. The revised budget 2014-15 after the approval by the Chairman PARC/BOD ALP provided to all concerned for further action.

16. Honoraria Awarded to PIs

The case for honorarium of PI of two projects processed for approval of competent authority. The competent authority has approved the payment of honorarium to the PI on recommendations of technical divisions after found the progress satisfactory.

17. Extension of Project

The case for extension in duration of a project ‘Production Performance and Reproductive Efficiency Enhancement of Indigenous Goats and Sheep in Turbat Area under Optimum Feeding, Breeding and Health Management LRI-PARC, Turbat processed for approval of competent authority. Extension in duration for period of one year i.e up to June, 2015 has been approved by the Chairman, PARC/BOD, ALP. The approval has been conveyed to all concerned along with budget breakup for year 2014-15.

18. Appraisal of ALP 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 national referees.

19. Board of Directors (BOD) of ALP

The 20th meeting of the Board of Directors (BOD) was held on 5th January, 2015 at PARC headquarters, Islamabad. In the meeting five projects were approved for funding under ALP.

20. Annual progress report of ALP 2013-14

Draft annual progress report of ALP for 2013-14 being compiled. The information included in the report comprises overall progress of ALP and progress of on-going projects.

21. Updating of record/data

The data regarding completed and on-going project, region/ sector wise project distribution and cost allocation etc. updated for record and use.

22. AIP and Others Prepared Concept paper for World Bank Investment Project. Given input on

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National Agricultural Research Centre

preparation of AIP procedures, proposal formats and other documents. Further input on New NARS model papered and further refined and presentation prepared for BOG.

Sr.# Official Task/ Activity

Status of the task

1. Research and Development

Two Sugarcane National Uniform Yield Trials, NUYT-2013-15 (2nd year Plant) and NUYT-2014-16 (1st year Plant) comprising of 5 and 6 candidate sugarcane varieties respectively plus 2 standard checks each planted in September 2014 were maintained using standard cultural operations i.e. irrigation and weeding.

An experiment on sugarcane intercropping with onion, potato, lentil, turnip and wheat was maintained using standard cultural operations i.e. irrigation and weeding.

Hybrid rice seed production experiments were threshed at NARC; ARI; Mingora Swat; NT&HVCRI, Shinkiari, Mansehra; NS&TCI, Thatta and Rice Unit, Kala Shah Kaku.

Harvesting, threshing, cleaning and grading of hybrid seed (NARC-2704). The gross weight of seed is above 2200 kg. While male parent lines seed weight is above 550 kg.

Six acres approved Maize variety planted for quality seed was harvested and cobs drying are in progress, Millet, Sorghum and Sudan grass Germplasm genotypes were harvested, sun dried and threshed. Threshing of Millet seed increase is also in progress during the month under report.

SDS-PAGE analysis of total seed storage proteins was carried out using 20 accessions of barley, 12 accessions each of Brassica campestris, B. juncea, and B. napus for the assessment of genetic diversity among given germplasm.

Winter management of HBRI Apis mellifera and A. cerana honeybee colonies placed at NARC premises. No mite infestation has been found in A. cerana colonies.

Processed bees wax for formation of comb foundation sheets of Apis mellifera under RADP Project “High quality honey production from Margalla hills” by day and night working at wax processing room.

Determined crop water requirement (ETc) of oat and wheat crop by CROPWAT model for experimental study “Characterization of water management strategies for optimum crop profitability under sprinkler irrigation systems” and prepared irrigation scheduling for these crops considering rainfall.

Supplemental irrigation to wheat crop was carried out through solar operated rain-gun. Performance indicator such as discharge and uniformity was also evaluated. The average discharge of PY-50 rain gun was 5.5lps while the distribution uniformity was 78%.

Solar operated drip-irrigation was also evaluated at 10 psi pressure head. Data was collected and evaluated at head, middle and tail of the laterals. The average discharge of the emitter was 8.0 7.5 and 7.0 lph at head, middle and tail of the lateral. Average distribution uniformity of the system was 88% which shows satisfactory of the drip system

Data on germination of station agronomic trials on tillage & cropping system, nutrients management and Zn bio-fortification recorded

Under AIP/AVRDC Mungbean project the threshing and cleaning of three

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varieties of mung seed produced was completed.

Induced salt tolerance in wheat byinoculating with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) for ACC-deaminase activity under salt-affected soil. (The study is being conducted).

Under PPR ALP project, a local isolate of PPR virus (PAK-Fjg-07/NARC4) from AHP repository is being attenuated for the development of PPR vaccine by serial passages on Vero cells. During current month 38 serial passages were completed.

Virus neutralization test (VNT) was conducted for two field isolates using hyper immune sera raised against PPR in sheep and goats at LRS.

A new modified Vero cell line CHS-20 expressing SLAM receptors for sheep and goats was successfully revived and maintained.

Competitive ELISA was conducted to test the serum samples collected from Tehsil Mithi, Sind in FAO PPR project. A total of 90/160 samples were found positive for PPR.

An experiment entitled “Nutritional evaluation of corn silage bales influenced by storage conditions” with collaboration of Livestock Research Station has been carried out. Laboratory analyses of the silage are under process. Results to date showed that silage is highly nutritive for ruminants.

In the Dairy and Meat Technology section of the APIP, 5 samples of commercial yogurt were streaked on MRS and M17 Agar plates. Ten isolates of Gram-positive rods and seven isolates of Gram-positive cocci have been isolated from these samples.

The AFRP is successfully breeding Guppies and Mollies (ornamental fish) in concrete raceways. This achievement is expected to be a major milestone in breeding of these fishes within the country. Also, the brood stock of ornamental fish is under preparation.

Under the ALP project “Improving reproductive efficiency of cows and buffaloes through oestrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination”, 80 non-descript cows have been treated for heat synchronization with CIDR and inseminated at Kot Addu (Dist Muzaffar Garh). Thirty pregnancy tests have been completed.

Proficiency testing was performed on samples received from GD lab Netherlands. NRLPD lab scored 100% proficiency with outstanding results. Under the HPED project PA and NP genes of AIV H14N3 were sequenced.

2. Coordination Activity

The grain yield data of mung & mash NUYTs is received from four institutes

Data spring maize of NUMYT (hybrids) Trials was analyzed and results send to the Coordinator (Cereal Crops) PARC.

Assisted PATCO for the procurement of quality ber and acacia honey and same were tested at Honey Analysis Lab.

Install the micro irrigation system for nurseries and fruit plants under tunnel farming at NTHRI, Shinkiari with overhead tank.

Solar plants for desalinization of brackish water in Umar Kot and Hub (Lasbella). (The analysis of water samples shows that the systems are working properly).

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

About 15 surplus crossbred sheep were Auctioned and an amount of Rs. 0.147 million was deposited to the cashier, NARC.

The NRLPD scientist conducted assessment of two Labs of University of

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UVAS as an auditor.

Provided germination testing service to PATCO for 02 consignments comprising 4 seed samples.

Five samples of wheat hybrids and one sample of brassica received from Dr. A. Ghafoor, PSO, PGRI was stored in gene-bank under T-326 and T-327, respectively.

3. Dissemination of Research/training

Two farmer’s days were organized at Latifwal and Saghar Villages of Chakwal and Talagang area under ICARDA CRP1-1 Project.

Scientists of Rice Programme attended National Seminar “Rice Quality, Head recovery affected by harvest/thresh methodologies and milling practices” organized by ABEI-NARC, in MARIAN Hotel, Main G.T. Road, Gujranwala on Dec. 6, 2014.

Pollination Awareness Campaigns under GEF/FAO Project titled “Conservation & Management of Pollinators for Sustainable Agriculture through an Ecosystem Approach” was organized at five various Schools of Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad during January 26-30, 2015.

The role and awareness about the honeybees in crop pollination recorded and telecast on SUCH TV on January 15, 2015.

Attended meeting of RC1 on “Monitoring and Climate Scenario Downscaling” organized by ICIMOD, Nepal, during 29th -30th January, 2015.

Participated in two days scoping workshop to develop proposal: identification of the best agricultural management practices with better greenhouse gas (GHG), Benefits in salinity affected areas of South Asia 19-20th January, 2014 Colombo Seri-Lanka.

Under PATCO, the ANP sold 525 bags of PARC cattle feed, 50 kg milk booster and 5 urea molasses blocks. Also, 60 samples were received for proximate analyses.

In the DMT section of APIP, a batch of plain yoghurt was prepared for marketing on PATCO sale Point Analyzed 6 milk samples from LRS (Average composition: Fat = 4.15; Total Solids = 11.82; SNF = 7.82).

The AFRP sold channel catfish fingerlings and ornamental fishes at an amount of 32480/- under PATCO.

Sowing of wheat demonstration plot at farmer’s field in ICT was demonstrated.

Prepared comb foundation sheets for bee keepers / interested person as

well as for HBRI apiary of A. mellifera and A. cerana.

Post harvest storage methods of mungbean were demonstrated to farmers under AIP/AVRDC Project in three districts of Potohar region.

Foliar application of HA and micronutrients were carried out at farmer’s field in Sahiwal and Harapa districts.

Grain samples of maize collected from experiment at Harrapa, district Sahiwal were analyzed for total nitrogen.

Harvested 6 acres maize seed production block of “Islamabad Gold”

4 Training Imparted A National Policy Workshop on Conservation and Management of

Pollinators was organized on January 19, 2015 under Global Pollinator

Project titled “Conservation & Management of Pollinators for Sustainable

Agriculture through an Ecosystem Approach”. Chairman PARC, Members

of the Council, DG, NARC and members of the technical committee from all

over the Pakistan including AJ&K participated in the Workshop. Technical

Committee prepared a Policy guideline for the approval of higher

authorities.

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A visit of 41 participants from Academic Management and Professional Development Department, Lahore was briefed about biogas system at CAEWRI, NARC.

Supervised students from The University of Poonch, Rawalakot, AJK for internship program.

Two PhD students from PIASA, NARC, Islamabad are completing their research work.

Various programs of the ASI are teaching courses Skill Development Program for Agriculture and Livestock Graduates as Service Providers in Agriculture Sector.

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

Five DVM internee students from the University of Poonch, AJK were trained on small ruminant management and production and wool analysis techniques for two weeks w.e.f 29th December, 2014.

In ANP, one MPhil student from PIASA and one PhD student from Gilgit Baltistan are conducting their research work. Five farmers were guided on feeding and management of livestock.

A number of research internees, M.Phil and PhD students from academic institutions are being trained in agro-morphological, biochemical and molecular characterization of plant genetic resources under field and laboratory conditions.