Directorate of Agri. Research Merged Areas, ARI-Tarnab, Peshawar

Introduction

Agricultural Research started its activities in the southern four districts of Merged Area with the implementation of the scheme on “Adaptive Research Programme on Fruits in Merged Area” in July 1990. The scheme was converted into non-development side from July 1995. The Directorate of Agriculture Research Merged Area situated at the campus of the renowned Agricultural Research Institute Tarnab Peshawar, is the central point of the agricultural research activities being carried out in Merged Area. Orakzai, Kurram, North and South Waziristan Agencies (Tribal Districts) presently have research establishments.

Details of Section/Labs                    

1. Soil & Water Testing Laboratory at South Waziristan District.
2. Soil & Water Testing Laboratory at Parachinar District Kurram.
3. Tissue Culture laboratory at Parachinar District Kurram.
4. Soil & Water Testing Laboratory at Bajaur.

Official Message from Head of the Department

As the Head of the Department of Agriculture, I want to take this opportunity to emphasize the crucial role each of you plays in advancing our mission. Our department is at the forefront of ensuring food security, sustainability, and innovation in agriculture. The challenges we face are significant, from climate change impacts to global food supply chain disruptions. However, it is through our collective efforts and dedication that we can overcome these challenges and make meaningful progress. I encourage each of you to continue your outstanding work in research, development, and implementation of agricultural practices that promote resilience and efficiency. Your contributions are instrumental in shaping the future of agriculture, not just locally but on a global scale. Let's continue to collaborate closely, share knowledge, and explore new ideas that will further enhance our capabilities and impact. Together, we can create a sustainable and prosperous future for agriculture and ensure that our efforts contribute positively to society.

Brief History       

• Agricultural Research started its activities in the Southern.
• Four Districts of Merged Area in July 1990.

Objectives                                                            

1. Introduction of High Yielding Varieties of Crops.
2. Development of Site Specific Production Technologies.
3. Reduction of Post-Harvest Losses.
4. Dissemination of Technology

Details of Ongoing Schemes (Regular & Developmental)

On-going AIP-Scheme

• Virus Free Seed Potato Production Using Tissue Culture Technology at Higher Altitudes of Kurram & Orakzai (Approved Cost Rs. 508.756 million).

On-going ADP-Schemes

• Establishment of Soil & Water Testing Labs. in Tribal Districts (Approved Cost Rs. 27.922 million).
• Preservation & Promotion of Indigenous Beans, Pulses, Ground Nuts, & Medicinal Herbs of Merged Areas and Fruit Fly Control in Kurram, N. Waziristan & South Waziristan Districts (Approved Cost Rs. 29.665 million).
• Development & Promotion of Organic Food Products from Arghunja (wild cherry plum) & Research on Cold Tolerant Rice in District Kurram (Approved Cost Rs. 19.190 million).

Functions

Realizing the vertical increase in the productivity in Merged Area, agriculture research has to play a pivotal and strategic role. Agriculture research can contribute towards the overall goal of poverty reduction in the area, by generating knowledge relevant to the conditions of Merged Area, enhancing the skills of the farming communities and providing basis for the economic growth through value addition. The overall goal can be achieved with the following specific objectives;

• To increase productivity through introduction of promising cultivars of cereals, vegetables, fruits, pulses and oilseed crops.
• To minimize the cost of production through cost-effective production technology.
• To improve the quality of the farm produce and devise strategies for better access to markets with minimal post-harvest losses through a value chain approach.
• To reduce post-harvest losses through food preservation and value addition.
• To create formal and informal linkages between research, extension and farming community for speedy dissemination of knowledge and technology.

Mandate

1. Introduction of High-Yielding Varieties of Crops
   1. Adaptive Research on Farmers Fields
   2. Introduction of System of Certified Seed & Plant Sapling (as per Seed Act, 1976)
2. Development of Site Specific Production Technologies
   1. Research on site specific technologies
   2. Adaptation to climate change strategies

• Integrated Crop Management

3. Reduction of Post-Harvest Losses
   1. Trainings of farmers in proper Post-Harvest Management
   2. Food processing and preservation
4. Dissemination of Technology
   1. Trainings, Exposure Visits, Field days, Publications

Achievements (last 3 years)