CSS Past Paper 2018 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2018 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2018 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
Global warming is one of the major threats to food security. What priority measures, in short and long terms, do you suggest to mitigate the negative impacts and to use the benefits of climate change on different agricultural sectors? Give examples where necessary.
Introduction
Global warming is a big challenge for food security in many countries, especially like Pakistan. It causes increase in temperature, change in rain patterns, droughts, floods, and more pests and diseases. Agriculture is directly affected because it depends on weather. But if we take smart steps, we can reduce its bad effects and also get some benefits in few areas.
Short-Term Measures
- Early Warning Systems:
- Govt. should setup weather alert system for farmers.
- It will help them plan sowing, irrigation and harvesting better.
- Water Management:
- Use of drip irrigation and sprinkler system to save water.
- Lining of canals to reduce water losses.
- Crop Insurance:
- Govt. should provide crop insurance schemes to farmers.
- It helps in case of floods, drought or crop failure.
- Pest and Disease Control:
- Due to warm weather, pests are increasing.
- Quick availability of pesticides and training to farmers can help control them.
- Selection of Climate-Resilient Crops:
- Promote drought and heat tolerant crop varieties like drought-tolerant wheat and maize.
- Public Awareness:
- Arrange seminars and programs to educate farmers on climate change.
Long-Term Measures
- Research and Development:
- More investment in agricultural research to develop new varieties of crops that can resist heat and pests.
- Example: Heat-tolerant rice or wheat in Punjab.
- Afforestation and Reforestation:
- Trees help in carbon absorption and also stop soil erosion.
- Planting more trees around fields helps to balance climate.
- Adopting Sustainable Agriculture:
- Use of organic fertilizers and crop rotation.
- Less use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
- Changing Cropping Patterns:
- Shift from water-intensive crops like rice and sugarcane to less water demanding crops like pulses or millet in dry areas.
- Renewable Energy in Agriculture:
- Use of solar-powered tube wells instead of diesel ones to reduce carbon emission.
- Policy and Planning:
- Govt. should make strong agricultural policies considering future climate impacts.
- Climate-smart agriculture should be part of national plan.
Benefits of Climate Change (if handled properly)
- In colder areas like Northern Pakistan, warming can increase crop growing season.
- Some crops may grow better due to more CO₂ in air (CO₂ fertilization effect).
- Farmers can grow two crops instead of one in a year due to longer warm season (only if water available).
Impact on Different Agricultural Sectors
| Sector | Impact & Strategy |
| Crops | Temperature rise can reduce wheat and rice yield. Need for tolerant varieties. |
| Livestock | Heat stress affects milk and meat. Green fodder should be grown in rangelands. |
| Fisheries | Water temperature affects fish breeding. Need for controlled aquaculture. |
| Horticulture | Fruit crops affected due to changing flowering time. Need modern practices. |
Conclusion
Global warming is real and already affecting our agriculture and food supply. But with smart short and long-term strategies, we can protect our crops and farmers. Government, scientists and farmers must work together. If we act today, we can save tomorrow.
Question 3
Pakistan is suffering from serious edible oil deficit. Suggest a strategy integrating agricultural sciences and the Government to improve the present situation.
Introduction
Pakistan imports a big part of its edible oil, like soybean oil and palm oil. This costs a lot of foreign exchange. Local production is very low because of less awareness, poor research, low yield of oilseed crops, and no proper government support. To fix this problem, we need a full plan that combines agriculture science with government support.
Current Situation of Edible Oil in Pakistan
- Import dependency: Around 70-80% of edible oil is imported.
- Major import countries: Indonesia and Malaysia (for palm oil), USA and Brazil (for soybean oil).
- Local crops: Sunflower, canola, mustard, cottonseed – but area under cultivation is decreasing.
- Problems:
- Low yield per acre
- No support price for oilseeds
- Farmers prefer wheat and sugarcane
- No proper marketing system
Integrated Strategy (Agricultural Science + Government)
A. Role of Agricultural Sciences:
- High Yield Varieties (HYVs):
- Develop and distribute high oil-content varieties of sunflower, canola, and mustard.
- Example: Canola hybrids with 40–45% oil content.
- Research and Development (R&D):
- Strengthen research centers like NARC and PARC to work on drought and pest resistant oilseed crops.
- Crop Management Techniques:
- Educate farmers on timely sowing, balanced fertilizer use, and modern harvesting methods.
- Oilseed in Cropping System:
- Promote oilseed crops as part of crop rotation to maintain soil fertility and reduce pests.
- Mechanization:
- Use of modern machines like oilseed planters and harvesters to save time and reduce losses.
B. Role of Government:
- Subsidies and Support Prices:
- Fix support prices for oilseed crops to encourage farmers.
- Give subsidy on seeds, fertilizers and machinery.
- Awareness Campaigns:
- Run media campaigns to inform farmers about benefits of growing oilseed crops.
- Public-Private Partnerships:
- Encourage edible oil companies to contract directly with farmers for buying oilseeds.
- Import Substitution Policy:
- Set clear target to reduce edible oil imports by 25–30% in next 5 years.
- Storage and Processing Units:
- Establish local oil extraction mills in rural areas to reduce post-harvest losses.
- Credit and Loans:
- Easy loans for farmers to grow oilseed crops.
- Use of Marginal Lands:
- Grow oilseed crops in barani (rain-fed) areas where other crops can’t grow properly.
Example of Countries Who Did It
- India: Increased local production through “Yellow Revolution”.
- Malaysia: Became world leader in palm oil through strong policy and research.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s edible oil problem is serious but solvable. We need to boost local production by using agricultural technology and strong government support. Farmers should be motivated with good prices and support services. If we work together, we can reduce imports and save foreign exchange for other needs.
Question 4
Discuss bio-fortification. How is it helpful to provide basic human nutrition needs and to combat with malnutrition? Explain with examples.
Introduction
Bio-fortification is a method to improve the nutritional value of crops through science. It means increasing vitamins and minerals in food crops through plant breeding, genetic engineering, or agronomic practices. This is very useful in countries like Pakistan where many poor people eat mostly staple foods like wheat and rice that have low nutrients. Bio-fortified crops help fight malnutrition without changing people’s eating habits.
What is Bio-Fortification?
- Definition: Bio-fortification is the process of making crops more nutritious by increasing their content of vitamins and minerals.
- Methods Used:
- Conventional Breeding
- Genetic Engineering
- Agronomic Biofortification (using fertilizers or sprays)
Main Nutrients Added in Bio-Fortified Crops
| Nutrient | Importance | Deficiency Disease |
| Iron | Blood production | Anemia |
| Zinc | Growth and immunity | Stunted growth |
| Vitamin A | Eyesight, immune system | Night blindness |
| Iodine | Thyroid function | Goiter |
| Protein | Muscle growth | Weakness |
How It Helps to Meet Human Nutrition Needs?
- Reaches Rural Population:
- Bio-fortified crops are grown like normal crops, so even poor farmers can benefit.
- No need for tablets or supplements.
- Improves Health:
- Reduces diseases like anemia, night blindness, and weak bones.
- Makes children stronger and helps in their brain development.
- Low-Cost, Long-Term Solution:
- Once the seeds are developed, they can be used for many years.
- Cheaper than food fortification or supplements.
- No Change in Taste or Cooking:
- People can eat same food like rice, wheat, maize but with more nutrients.
Examples of Bio-Fortified Crops
- Golden Rice:
- Genetically modified rice that contains Vitamin A (beta-carotene).
- Helps prevent blindness in children.
- Iron-Rich Beans:
- Developed in Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Fights anemia in women.
- Zinc-Enriched Wheat:
- Grown in India and Pakistan.
- Helps in child growth and immune system.
- Orange Sweet Potato:
- High in Vitamin A.
- Used in Africa to improve eye health in children.
Bio-Fortification in Pakistan
- HarvestPlus Program is working in Pakistan to promote zinc wheat.
- NIBGE (National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering) is also working on bio-fortified crops.
- Government should promote such programs more.
Challenges in Adoption
- Lack of awareness among farmers.
- High initial cost of seeds.
- Some people fear GMOs (genetically modified crops).
- Weak extension services in rural areas.
Suggestions to Improve
- Govt. should give subsidies on bio-fortified seeds.
- Awareness campaigns about health benefits.
- Include bio-fortification in national food security policy.
- Involve private seed companies to spread these crops faster.
Conclusion
Bio-fortification is a smart way to fight hidden hunger. It provides vitamins and minerals in normal food crops without much cost. It is best for rural areas where people can’t afford expensive food or medicine. Pakistan should take strong steps to support bio-fortified agriculture for a healthy future.
Question 5
Biotechnology offers several opportunities for crop genetic improvement to meet the present and future challenges. Discuss with suitable examples.
Introduction
Biotechnology is a modern science that uses living things like cells, DNA, and genes to improve plants, animals, and micro-organisms. In agriculture, biotechnology helps improve crops by making them stronger, more nutritious, and resistant to problems like drought, pests, and diseases. In today’s world where food demand is high and land is limited, crop improvement through biotech is very important.
What is Crop Genetic Improvement?
Crop genetic improvement means changing the genes of plants to make them better in quality and quantity. It includes:
- High yield
- Disease resistance
- Drought or heat tolerance
- Better nutrition
Biotechnology makes this process faster and more accurate than traditional breeding.
Opportunities Provided by Biotechnology
1. Disease and Pest Resistance:
- Example: Bt cotton in Pakistan contains a gene from a bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis) that kills bollworms.
- Farmers use less pesticides → saves cost → safer for environment.
2. Drought and Heat Tolerance:
- New biotech crops can survive in water-scarce or hot areas.
- Example: Drought-tolerant maize (corn) developed in Africa.
- Can be useful for dry areas of Balochistan and Thar in Pakistan.
3. Enhanced Nutrition (Bio-Fortification):
- Example: Golden rice contains Vitamin A (beta-carotene) to reduce blindness in children.
- Zinc wheat is another example for better immune system and growth.
4. Herbicide Tolerance:
- Crops can be made resistant to certain herbicides so weeds can be controlled easily.
- Saves labor and time.
5. Faster Breeding Techniques:
- Marker-assisted selection (MAS): Helps scientists select good traits in crops quickly.
- Saves years of traditional breeding.
6. Protection Against Climate Change:
- Climate change brings new diseases and weather changes.
- Biotech crops can adapt faster to these changes.
7. GM Crops (Genetically Modified):
- These crops have genes from other organisms.
- Example: GM soybeans and GM maize are grown in USA, Brazil and Argentina on large scale.
- Can increase production and reduce losses.
Future Challenges That Can Be Solved by Biotech
| Challenge | Biotech Solution |
| Food shortage | High-yield crops |
| Water scarcity | Drought-resistant varieties |
| Malnutrition | Nutrient-rich crops |
| Climate change | Stress-tolerant crops |
| Low farmer income | Reduced input cost via pest-resistant crops |
Status of Biotechnology in Pakistan
- Pakistan introduced Bt cotton but it still faces issues due to poor regulation and seed quality.
- Institutes like NIBGE, NIAB, and PARC are working on biotech crops.
- Pakistan needs better laws, research funding, and awareness.
Challenges to Biotechnology in Agriculture
- Lack of public awareness
- Fear of GMOs (myths and misinformation)
- Weak regulatory system
- High cost of research and imported technology
Recommendations
- Increase investment in agri-biotech research.
- Educate farmers about biotech benefits.
- Improve seed certification and GMO regulation.
- Public-private partnerships to promote biotech seeds.
- Develop local seed varieties for local conditions.
Conclusion
Biotechnology is the future of agriculture. It can solve many problems like food insecurity, climate change, and poor nutrition. Pakistan must use biotechnology in the right way with proper planning and support from government, scientists, and farmers. This is the only way to feed our growing population in a sustainable way.
Question 6
Green fodder is an excellent and the cheapest source of nutrition to livestock in Pakistan, but it is not available in enough quantities. Many rangelands are present in Pakistan, how these could be used to improve the availability of the green fodder.
Introduction
Green fodder is very important for livestock because it gives protein, vitamins, and energy. It is also cheap compared to commercial feed. Pakistan has over 200 million livestock, but there is a big gap in green fodder availability. This affects milk and meat production. At the same time, Pakistan has large rangelands, but they are not used properly. With planning and improvement, these rangelands can be a big source of green fodder.
Current Situation in Pakistan
- Fodder availability is 25–30% less than actual demand.
- Most farmers depend on wheat straw or dry fodder, which is low in nutrients.
- Main green fodder crops: Berseem, Lucerne, Sorghum, Maize.
- Shortage is common in summer and winter lean periods.
- Around 60% of land is classified as rangeland, but most of it is degraded.
Role of Rangelands in Green Fodder Production
Rangelands are natural grazing areas. If managed properly, they can provide green fodder for animals during the whole year, especially in areas where farming is not possible.
How to Improve Rangelands for Fodder?
1. Reseeding with High-Quality Fodder Plants:
- Introduce fast-growing and high-yield fodder species like Rhodes grass, Panicum, Stylosanthes.
- Use of native grasses that are drought-tolerant.
2. Controlled Grazing System:
- Stop overgrazing by using rotational grazing.
- Divide rangeland into parts and let animals graze one area while the other areas recover.
3. Water Harvesting Techniques:
- Use small dams and ponds to store rainwater in dry rangeland areas.
- Helps grow fodder even during dry season.
4. Agroforestry and Silvopasture:
- Plant fodder trees like Leucaena, Sesbania, Acacia.
- These trees provide shade, fodder, and improve soil fertility.
5. Fertilizer and Weed Control:
- Use organic and chemical fertilizers to improve grass growth.
- Remove harmful weeds that reduce fodder availability.
6. Community Participation:
- Involve local farmers in management of rangelands.
- Form Grazing Committees to protect and maintain land.
7. Government Support:
- Provide seeds, training, and tools to improve rangeland productivity.
- Launch national rangeland development programs.
Benefits of Using Rangelands for Fodder
| Benefit | Description |
| Cheap source of fodder | Saves money on feed |
| Year-round availability | Green fodder even in lean seasons |
| Improved animal health | More milk and meat from healthy livestock |
| Soil protection | Prevents erosion and desertification |
| Employment | Creates jobs in rural areas |
Examples from Pakistan
- In Balochistan, pilot projects in Ziarat and Loralai have shown good results in rangeland rehabilitation.
- Punjab has used community-based range improvement in Cholistan area.
- PARC and Livestock Departments are also working on range improvement plans.
Conclusion
Pakistan can solve its green fodder shortage by improving and using rangelands in a sustainable way. With reseeding, proper grazing, and community management, these lands can become a strong source of fodder for livestock. Government and farmers must work together to save the future of our livestock industry.
Question 7
Forest area in Pakistan is not according to the international standards. What public and government can do to improve forests area in Pakistan? Discuss in detail.
Introduction
Forests play an important role in protecting the environment, reducing global warming, stopping soil erosion, and providing wood and non-wood products. According to international standard by FAO, a country should have at least 25% forest cover. But Pakistan has less than 5%, which is very low. Deforestation, urbanization, illegal logging, and poor forest management are the main reasons. Both public and government need to take serious steps to improve the situation.
Current Forest Situation in Pakistan
- Total forest area: Around 4.5% of total land.
- Types of forests:
- Coniferous forests (Swat, Murree, Abbottabad)
- Riverine forests (Sindh and Punjab)
- Mangroves (Coastal areas like Karachi)
- Irrigated plantations (Changa Manga, Chichawatni)
- Major problems:
- Illegal cutting of trees
- No proper replanting
- Encroachment by housing schemes
- Forest fires and grazing
Government Actions to Improve Forest Area
1. National Forest Policy Implementation:
- Apply rules from National Forest Policy 2015 properly in all provinces.
- Make forest protection a priority in development plans.
2. Afforestation Programs:
- Launch more tree plantation drives like Billion Tree Tsunami and Ten Billion Tree Program.
- Focus on both urban and rural areas.
3. Ban on Illegal Logging:
- Strong action and heavy fines for people involved in illegal cutting of trees.
- Use of drone and satellite to monitor forest areas.
4. Promote Agroforestry:
- Encourage farmers to grow trees on farms along with crops.
- Give free seedlings and training to rural people.
5. Forest Education and Research:
- Strengthen institutions like Pakistan Forest Institute (PFI).
- Do more research on native tree species and climate-friendly forests.
6. Community-Based Forest Management:
- Involve local communities in forest protection and tree plantation.
- Share profit from wood and forest products with them.
7. Financial Support and Incentives:
- Provide loans or grants for people planting trees.
- Give rewards or tax discounts to industries using sustainable wood.
8. Strengthen Forest Departments:
- Provide proper training, vehicles, and tools to forest officers.
- Recruit more staff in forest-deficient areas.
Public Role in Forest Protection and Growth
1. Participation in Plantation Drives:
- Public should take part in govt campaigns like “Plant for Pakistan”.
- Schools, colleges, and NGOs can organize local tree planting events.
2. Avoid Tree Cutting:
- Stop cutting trees for firewood, furniture, or construction.
- Use alternatives like gas or solar energy.
3. Urban Forestry:
- Plant trees in homes, parks, roadsides, and empty plots.
- Use rooftops and vertical spaces for planting small trees.
4. Awareness Campaigns:
- Spread messages about the benefits of forests through social media, TV, and local events.
- Make environment protection a part of school curriculum.
5. Adopt a Tree Campaigns:
- People can adopt trees and take care of them like their own plants.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s forest area is very low compared to world standards. This is dangerous for the environment and future generations. Government must take strict and smart actions. At the same time, public should also play a strong role by planting trees and protecting forests. Only together we can make Pakistan greener and safer.
Question 8
Discuss the current situation and suggest prioritize strategies to improve forest based wildlife in Pakistan.
Introduction
Forest-based wildlife means the animals, birds, and other living creatures that live in or depend on forests. They are very important for ecological balance, biodiversity, tourism, and even for research and medicine. In Pakistan, due to deforestation, illegal hunting, and habitat destruction, many forest animals are now endangered or even extinct. There is an urgent need to save and improve our forest-based wildlife.
Current Situation of Forest-Based Wildlife in Pakistan
- Forests are less than 5% of land area.
- Many forests are degraded or destroyed.
- Due to this, wildlife species are declining fast.
Examples of Threatened Forest-Based Species
| Species | Status |
| Markhor (National animal) | Threatened |
| Snow Leopard | Endangered |
| Himalayan Brown Bear | Critically Endangered |
| Western Tragopan (bird) | Endangered |
| Pangolin | Near extinction in some areas |
Main Causes of Wildlife Decline
- Deforestation: Loss of natural habitat due to tree cutting.
- Illegal Hunting and Poaching: For skin, horns, meat, etc.
- Encroachment: Construction and agriculture inside forest areas.
- Lack of Awareness: People don’t know the value of wildlife.
- Weak Wildlife Laws: No proper implementation or punishment.
- Climate Change: Affects food and water supply for animals.
Prioritized Strategies to Improve Forest-Based Wildlife
1. Protect and Restore Forest Habitats (Top Priority):
- Increase forest area through afforestation.
- Stop illegal logging and construction in forest zones.
- Rehabilitate degraded forests.
2. Establish and Strengthen Protected Areas:
- Create more National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves.
- Improve existing ones like Ayubia, Margalla Hills, and Khunjerab National Park.
3. Control Illegal Hunting and Poaching:
- Strong monitoring and action against poachers.
- Use camera traps, forest guards, and drone technology.
- Ban on hunting endangered species.
4. Community-Based Conservation:
- Involve local people in wildlife protection.
- Give them jobs as forest watchers or eco-tourism guides.
- Share profit from tourism and forest products with communities.
5. Awareness and Education Programs:
- Run campaigns in schools and media to teach wildlife importance.
- Celebrate days like World Wildlife Day with plantation and talks.
6. Wildlife Breeding and Rescue Centers:
- Build centers to breed and protect rare species.
- Injured animals can be treated and returned to wild.
7. Improve Laws and Policy Implementation:
- Update laws like Wildlife Protection Act.
- Make forest crime punishable with heavy fines and jail.
8. Research and Data Collection:
- Universities and wildlife departments should study endangered species.
- Use scientific methods to track and monitor wildlife numbers.
9. Promote Eco-Tourism:
- Develop wildlife tourism in places like Murree, Swat, Gilgit.
- Create income and awareness at the same time.
Examples of Success Stories
- Markhor population increased in Chitral due to trophy hunting ban and local involvement.
- Snow Leopard Foundation is working in northern areas to protect endangered cats.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s forest-based wildlife is in danger and needs quick and serious attention. Without forests, many species will disappear forever. Both government and public must work together by saving forests, stopping hunting, and spreading awareness. Wildlife is our national treasure, and we must protect it before it’s too late.
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