January - April, 2019

PARC NEWS Pakistan Agricultural Research Council Vol. 31 - No. 1

Precious Foreign Exchange would be Saved if Olive Cultivation is
Stepped up in Pakistan: Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan
Inaugural session of International Confe- from Greec, Spain, FAO Rep. in Pakistan
rence on Olive Orchard Management and and other prominent scientists were also
Value Chain Development was held at participants of the event.
National Agricultural Research Centre While addressing to the inaugural Cere-
(NARC), Islamabad on Feb. 19. Sahibzada mony, the Chief Guest, Sahibzada Mehboob
Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o National
Minister for M/o National Food Security & Food Security & Research, Islamabad said
Research, Islamabad was the Chief Guest of that Olive is of great interest to the farmers
Dr. Munir appointed the occasion. Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman of Pakistan. Precious foreign exchange
PARC Chairman PARC, Prof. Dr. Nadeem Akhter Abbasi, would be saved if olive cultivation is
Vice Chancellor, PMAS, Arid Agriculture stepped up in Pakistan and the country
Dr Munir Ahmad is working as Chief
University, Rawalpindi, Stefano Ponteco- begins processing its own olive oil to help
Scientist-II / Member (Natural Resources
ryo, Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, experts (Contd. on page 7, Col. 1)
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. Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister, NFS&R, Stefano Pontecorvo, Italian Ambassador, Dr. Yusuf Zafar,
Engg from Asian Institute of Technology, 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.
Bangkok in 1983. Dr Munir earned his
Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering from PARC Playing Vital Role in Agriculture Sector: Rao Ajmal Khan
Iowa State University of Science &
Technology, Ames, Iowa, USA in 1990. Meeting of National Assembly Standing meeting.
Dr Munir Ahmad's major work is in the Committee on National Food Security & Speaking on the occasion, Rao Muhammad
areas of innovative equipment development Research (NFSR) was held at National Ajmal Khan, Chairman, NA Standing
for farm mechanization, post-harvest man- Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), Committee on NFS&R said that Pakistan
agement, natural resources management, Islamabad on Mar. 12. Rao Muhammad have huge potential in agriculture field
climate change, and solar energy in Ajmal Khan, MNA / Chairman, NA Stand- which needed to be exploited for the pro-
agriculture. His developed technologies ing Committee on NFSR presided over the (Contd. on page 7, Col. 2)
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 Rao Muhammad Ajmal Khan, Chiarman, National Assembly Standing Committee on NFS&R presiding over Meeting held at NARC,
[Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal, on Mar. 19. Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for NFS&R, Dr. M. Hashim Populzai, Federal Secretary for
(Contd. on page 7, Col. 1) NFS&R and Dr Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC and others also present on the occasion.

PARC, #20, G-5/1, Islamabad, Fax: 092-051-9203070, E-mail: chair@comsats.net.pk, Web: www.parc.gov.pk
 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
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.
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
Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC presiding over a meeting of ALP Board of Directors at PARC on Feb. 20.
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
(Contd. on page 7, Col. 2)
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
(Contd. on page 8, Col. 1)
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
(Contd. on page 8, Col. 2)
2
 Variety Evaluation Committee on Rice recommends 12 new hybrids Picture News
and one open pollinated variety for commercial cultivation
Variety Evaluation Committee (VEC) on from NARS including the Director General,
Rice was held at Pakistan Agricultural Federal Seed Certification & Registration
Research Council (PARC), Islamabad on Department, Director General (Agriculture
14th Feb. National Coordinator (Rice) of Research) Govt. of the Punjab, Food Securi-
PARC presented the working paper for all ty Commissioner from Ministry of National
the twenty-six proposals of rice hybrids / Food Security & Research and Director
varieties for recommendation to the Federal General of NARC. The representatives of
Seed Certification & Registration Depart- seed companies including Chairman Seed
ment. The VEC recommended 12 rice Association of Pakistan also attended the A group photo of Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC and Sr.
officials of PARC/ NARC with Chinese delegation at NARC on
hybrids and one open pollinated variety for meeting. Dr. Yusuf Zafar T.I., Chairman Apr. 25.
commercial cultivation in the country. The PARC chaired the meeting.
meeting was attended by technical members (Contd. on page 8, Col. 2)

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.

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),
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.
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 & Dr. Munir Chairman PARC Visiting PARC - Biological Control Lab
(PRTS), Multan on Apr. 26.
poultry; and also provide technical endorse-
ment for agriculture proposals and modules.
RSPN will facilitate NARC in seeking
(Contd. on page 8, Col. 3)

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
Muhammad Tariq, Secretary PARC signing MoU with Ms. Shandana H. Khan, CEO Rural Support Programmes Network Islamabad are also present on the occasion.
at PARC Feb. 4.

3
 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
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.
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
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
(Contd. on page 7, Col. 3)
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
(Contd. on page 8, Col. 1)
Visit of Chairman PARC at AZRI
Umerkot MoU signed PARC and
Thar Foundation (TF) Islamakot
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).
(Contd. on page 8, Col. 3)

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.
Book Launching Ceremony

4
 MoU inked between PARC and Hazara University, Mansehra for
Scientific, Technical and Academic Collaboration
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
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
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
(Contd. on page 8, Col. 3)
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
(Contd. on page 9, Col. 1)
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 Ceremony held at
PARC-SARC, Karachi
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.
5
 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.
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
Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman PARC presiding over the IPRCC meeting held at PARC on Feb. 13.
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
(Contd. on page 9, Col. 1)
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
(Contd. on page 9, Col. 2)
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.
6
 Dr. Munir Ahmad, appointed
PARC Chairman
(Contd. from page 1, Col. 1)
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.
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 that
Prof. 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.
PARC Playing Vital Role
(Contd. from page 1, Col. 3)
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.
Sustainable Watershed
Management practices
(Contd. from page 2, Col. 2)
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.
PARC holds 44th meeting of TAC
of BoD of ALP to evaluate project
proposals for funding
(Contd. from page 4, Col. 2)
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.
7
 PARC holds Board of Directors
of ALP to evaluate project
proposals for funding
(Contd. from page 2, Col. 2)
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.
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
(Contd. from page 4, Col. 2)
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
Baltis tan ( ETI - G B) an d P akis tan
Agricultural Research Council (PARC).
Farewell Message by Dr. Yusuf
Zafar, Ex-Chairman, PARC
(Contd. from page 2, Col. 3)
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.I
Ex- Chairman, PARC
House # 22, Street # 2,
G-13/3, Islamabad,
Home: 051-2301024
Cell: 0331 6765676
VEC on Rice recommends 12 new
hybrids and one open pollinated
variety for commercial cultivation
(Contd. from page 3, Col. 2)
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
(Contd. from page 3, Col. 2)
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.
Visit of Chairman PARC at AZRI
Umerkot MoU signed PARC and
Thar Foundation (TF) Islamakot
(Contd. from page 4, Col. 3)
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.
MoU inked between PARC and
Hazara University, Mansehra
(Contd. from page 5, Col. 2)
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).
8
 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
(Contd. from page 5, Col. 2)
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).
MoU Signed between PARC and
Sprouts Biotech Laboratories,
Karachi for Implementation of
Climate Smart Agriculture in
Rural Areas of Sindh Province
(Contd. from page 6, Col. 2)
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.
PARC and provincial institutes
should work together for the
benefit of small farmers Dr.
Yusuf Zafar, Chairman, PARC
(Contd. from page 6, Col. 2)
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.
Agri. Scientists needs to Plan for
Improvement of Farm Sector in
Pakistan. Sahibzada Mehboob
Sultan, Federal Minister for M/o
NFS&R, Islamabad
(Contd. from page 11, Col. 2)
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.
NARC in boosting up the
beekeeping sector in Pakistan:
Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali
(Contd. from page 11, Col. 3)
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.
VEC recommended 09 new
varieties for commercial
cultivation in Pakistan
(Contd. from page 12, Col. 2)
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.
China keen to accelerate the
development of Agriculture
(Contd. from page 13, Col. 2)
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.
9
 MoU Signed between PARC and
Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Pvt.
Limited Islamabad
(Contd. from page 12, Col. 2)
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.
PARC Employees hold protest
against non-payment of 10%
(Contd. from page 13, Col. 3)
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.
Wheat Travelling Seminar 2019
(Contd. from page 13, Col. 2)
has 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.
Soybean crop has an important
value among Pakistan's
agriculture sector
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.)
10
 Agri. Scientists needs to Plan for Improvement of Farm
Sector in Pakistan. Sahibzada Mehboob Sultan, Federal
Minister for M/o NFS&R, Islamabad
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 -
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.
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
(Contd. on page 9, Col. 2)
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
(Contd. on page 9, Col. 3)

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
Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan, Federal Minister for NFS&R is taking oath from the newly elected members of Pakistan Honeybee Agis Mellfere L Queen stock improvement Modeling
Agriculture Research Scientists Association (PARSA) at NARC on Apr. 18.) and Honey Quality Grading on Apr. 15.

11
 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
Dr. Abdul Ghafoor, Member (Plant Sciences), chairing a VAC meeting on Maize, Sorghum, Millet and Fodder Crops at PARC
on Apr. 4.
MoU Signed between PARC and Silvanus Forestry, Pakistan Pvt.
Limited Islamabad
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
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.
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
(Contd. on page 9, Col. 3)
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
(Contd. on page 10, Col. 1)
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.
12
 Wheat Travelling Seminar 2019; PARC Employees hold protest
Wheat Seminar to provide agri. scientists an opportunity to observe against non-payment of 10%
wheat crop across the country and work for its development: Syed increase in salary & pension in
Muzaffar Hussain Shah, Chairman Standing Committee for NFS&R Budget 2018-19
One day travelling wheat seminar on culti- season and needs to address the issue with Govt. should avoid anti agri and anti-
vation of new wheat varieties and introduce suitable alternatives i.e. introduction of new farmers policies, says protesters.
ridge sowing method organized by varieties, sowing method (Drill method), M/o Finance, Islamabad has made
CIMMYT at PARC-Arid Zone Research use of balance fertilizers, seed quantity, liability file a rolling stone, Roshan
Institute, Umerkot was held on March 20, irrigation, weed control and seed storage Zada, General Secretary, PARSA,
2019. Wheat experts visited Mazhar Dars method. PARC
Agriculture, Farm near Umerkot where Senator Syed Muzafar Hussain Shah,
Islamabad (25th April, 2019): Pakistan
wheat variety TJ-83 was found yellow leaf Chairman Senate Standing Committee on
Agricultural Research Council (PARC) is an
rust disease. The visitors discussed about National Food Security & Research said this
apex organization in the country. PARC has
this threat and concluded that this is effect of wheat seminar has been a big success as it Establishments all over the country working
the climate change and prolong winter (Contd. on page 10, Col. 2)
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
Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah, Chairman Senate Standing Committee for NFS&R, Dr. Munir Ahmad Chairman PARC and others are providing sufficient funds to meet their
sitting on stage on the occasion of “Travelling Wheat Seminar” held at PARC-AZRI, Umerkot Sindh on Mar. 20.) needs regarding salary and allowances. The
Govt. of Pakistan has announced 10%
China keen to accelerate the development of Agriculture Sector in increase in salary & pension of all Govt.
Pakistan in collaboration with PARC: Dr. Munir Ahmed employees working in different
organizations during budget speech of
A Chinese Delegation on Pak China Socio- briefed the delegation about presence of financial year 2018-19. The same increase
Economic Joint Working Group headed by PARC in the Country, National Agricultural in salary and pension were not given to
DU ZHENLI, Director / Prof. of Engineer- System of Pakistan, PARC discipline of in- PARC employees till to date by Govt. of
ing, Overseas Economic Cooperation Deptt. house research, i.e, Plant Sciences, Natural Pakistan, Ministry of Finance, Islamabad
China has visited Pakistan Agricultural Resources, Animal Sciences, Agricultural and has made liability file a rolling stone
Research Council (PARC), Head Quarters, Engineering and Social Sciences. He also between M/o National Food Security &
Islamabad and held meeting with Dr. Munir highlighted the Pakistan Agricultural Research and M/o Finance.
Ahmed, Chairman PARC for Pak-China Scenario and PARC major achievements. PARC also submitted their liability grant of
Collaboration in Agriculture Sector under Chairman PARC further added that Rs. 1352/- million to M/o National Food
CPEC. agriculture and socio economic develop- Security & Research during July, 2018 but
On the occasion, Dr. Munir Ahmed, ment are also included in Pak-China no funds released by the M/o Finance, Govt.
Chairman PARC acknowledged the support Economic Corridor (CPEC). of Pakistan to PARC till to date.
of China in various projects of PARC. In a In the meeting, Pak- China experts also In the light of the situation created by Govt.
meeting with Chinese Delegation, he gave a exchanged the agricultural information and of Pakistan, a joint action committee of
detailed presentation about PARC, its discussed the areas of mutual interest to PARSA PARC & Employees Association
EAPARC hold a strong & peaceful protest
mission and vision to achieve sustainable accelerate the development of Agriculture
against the attitude of M/o Finance, Govt. of
food security and poverty alleviation thro- sector in Pakistan.
Pakistan and demanded release of funds of
ugh knowledge and innovation. DU ZHENLI, Director / Prof. of
Rs. 1352/- million as liability grant to meet
Dr. Munir Ahmed, Chairman PARC also (Contd. on page 9, Col. 3)
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
Dr. Munir Ahmad, Chairman PARC meeting with Chinese delegation of Pak-China Socio-Economic Joint Group headed by DU
of Pakistan to fulfill the requirement of
ZHENLI, Director / Prof. of Engineering, Overseas Economic Cooperation Deptt. China at PARC on Feb. 28. (Contd. on page 10, Col. 1)

Published By: Directorate of Scientific Communication & Publication, National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad. Managed & Edited By:-
Muhammad Fiaz Joyia, Director (DSC&P), Ahmad Mahmood-uz-Zaman, Sr. Editor (English); Photographers:- Faraz Ahmed; Production:- Abdul Rehman Khan. 13