Wheat research and development in Pakistan

Abstract

This report is mainly a story of accomplishment, it portrays the work of many individuals who have contributed to the notable achievements made in Pakistani wheat production during the past 25 years. The report begins with an overview of the agricultural sector and identifies key developments that have contributed to Pakistan's wheat revolution it provides a comparison of the wheat economy between 1967 and 1987 and identifies the major factors responsible for its growth and development. The evolution and contributions of the national wheat research system are traced forward, starting with colonial times. The report ends with a summary of recent wheat research data for the major crop rotations in which it is grown and provides the current best recommendations for increasing national wheat productivity in the near-term. The report ends with comments about Pakistan's institutional framework for wheat research, and suggests ways this system might be further strengthened. Special attention is also given to the collaboration between Pakistan's wheat research institutions and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). This 25-year partnership-and the special place occupied by scientist Norman E. Borlaug-is one of the most productive examples of international research cooperation. The report was commissioned by the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as part of the PARC/CIMMYT Collaborative Maize and Wheat Program. Mr. Christopher R. Dowswell, former Head of CIMMYT's Information Services and currently a consultant in agricultural communications, was commissioned to prepare the report, We congratulate Mr. Dowswell for an absorbing account of a multidimensional story of wheat research and development.