Chartbook of maize in Pakistan and AJK 1989

Abstract

This chartbook was prepared as a background document to the 4th Asian Regional Maize Workshop, 22-27 September, 1990. It summarises in chart form, the recent situation with respect to 'kharif (summer) maize in Pakistan and Azad Jammu Kashmir. The bulk of the information is drawn from a major survey of maize conducted in late 1989 and early 1990. The survey of maize in Pakistan involved interviewing over 900 farmers in AJK, North West Frontier Province, Punjab and Islamabad Capital Territory. The major summer maize growing districts were given weights in the sample according to the area of maize in that district, against the total summer maize area in AJK and Pakistan. Villages were then randomly selected from within each sub-district (tehsil). Five farmers in these villages were surveyed, with a general strategy of finding farmers from different directions from the village centre. Two questionnaires per village were also completed on prices. The questions in the main maize survey relate to the main sections of this chartbook. All data were coded and analysed using the SPSS statistical package and Lotus 1-2-3. The charts were all prepared using Harvard Graphics on a PS/2 IBM computer, and were printed on a Hewlett Packard LaserJet Series II printer. We hope that this chartbook is a useful summary of the maize situation in Pakistan. The maize sector encompasses some of the more isolated and less developed areas of Pakistan. There is considerable need for further development of these areas, including development of maize production. The maize sector has suffered from numerous constraints to progress. We hope that this chartbook will prompt interested people to take action on the highest priority problems. Undoubtedly there is a need for a wider range of improved maize varieties and hybrids in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir. Of particular importance is shorter duration, a criteria that takes on increasing priority amongst farmers who are very keen to increase their cropping intensity. Another very high priority for development of maize is the development of an effective seed sector. As indicated in this report, the seed sector has failed to serve maize farmers satisfactorily. Other papers and reports document the need for action on this. It is pleasing to note that at the time thIS report goes to press the basis for an association of seed producers is taking shape. Much work also needs to be undertaken on agronomic aspects of maize production, especially in its dual-purpose role as a fodder and grain crop.