CSS Past Paper 2019 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2019 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2019 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
What is the role of natural resources (soil, water and solar energy) in crop production? Discuss innovative and technologically advanced approaches that could be used to improve efficiency of these resources.
Introduction
Natural resources like soil, water, and sunlight (solar energy) are very important for crop production. Without them, farming is not possible at all. These are the basic inputs for agriculture. But now, due to increasing population and climate changes, we need to use these resources more smartly and efficiently. Modern technology can help in this.
Role of Natural Resources in Crop Production
a) Soil
- Soil gives nutrients and support to crops.
- It holds water and air for roots.
- Soil quality affects crop yield, plant health, and growth cycle.
- Different types of soils (like loamy, sandy, clay) support different crops.
b) Water
- Water is used in photosynthesis and nutrient transportation.
- It’s needed in all growth stages of plants.
- Over-irrigation causes waterlogging, and less water causes drought stress.
c) Solar Energy
- Plants need sunlight for photosynthesis.
- The amount of sunlight affects growth speed, flowering, and fruiting.
- Longer days help in more food production in plants.
Technological and Innovative Approaches to Improve Efficiency
a) Precision Agriculture
- Use of satellites, GPS, and drones to monitor crop health, water needs, and soil condition.
- Helps farmers to apply water, fertilizer, and pesticides only where needed, reducing waste.
b) Soil Testing and Smart Fertilization
- Regular soil testing helps to understand nutrient levels.
- Use of bio-fertilizers and slow-release fertilizers reduces overuse and pollution.
c) Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation
- These systems save water by directly delivering it to plant roots.
- It reduces evaporation loss and increases water use efficiency.
d) Solar Powered Irrigation
- Using solar pumps helps poor farmers save fuel cost.
- It also promotes green energy and reduces carbon emissions.
e) Crop Rotation and Cover Crops
- These methods improve soil fertility naturally and reduce pests.
- Legumes in rotation fix nitrogen in the soil.
f) Remote Sensing and IoT Sensors
- IoT devices can measure soil moisture, temperature, and humidity.
- Data is sent to farmers’ phones for better decision making.
g) Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)
- Greenhouses and hydroponics help grow crops using less soil and water.
- Artificial lighting and temperature control help increase productivity.
Conclusion
In short, soil, water, and solar energy are the backbone of agriculture. But due to rising demand and environmental issues, just using them is not enough. We need to adopt smart technologies to use these resources wisely. If we use modern tools, smart irrigation, and data-based farming, we can get more yield, less waste, and better income for farmers. Pakistan needs to shift from traditional to technology-based farming to face the future challenges.
Question 3
Why is it considered necessary to keep pest population down for a good crop production? Discuss integrated management and control practices for agricultural pests and diseases taking account of effectiveness, economic and environmental acceptability of these practices.
Introduction
Pests and diseases are one of the main reasons behind low crop production in Pakistan and other countries. These pests damage crops in field and in storage. If not controlled, they reduce both quality and quantity of yield. That’s why it is very important to keep their population low using effective, cheap and environment-friendly methods.
Why Pest Control is Necessary for Good Crop Production?
- Pests destroy crops directly by eating leaves, stems, roots, fruits.
- They also spread diseases, especially viral and bacterial ones.
- Some pests attack during harvesting or storage, causing post-harvest losses.
- Heavy pest attacks can cause total crop failure.
- Uncontrolled pests lead to higher cost of production due to more pesticide use.
- It also affects export quality of agricultural products.
Example: Cotton crop in Pakistan is badly affected by whitefly and bollworm, causing huge economic loss every year.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a modern and safe way to control pests. It means using many methods together, instead of only relying on chemicals.
a) Cultural Control
- Crop rotation to break pest life cycles.
- Clean field practices (removing plant waste, weeds).
- Sowing time adjustment to avoid peak pest season.
b) Biological Control
- Using natural enemies like ladybird beetles, parasites, and fungi to control pests.
- It’s safe for environment and doesn’t cost much.
Example: Trichogramma is used against sugarcane borers in Pakistan.
c) Mechanical and Physical Control
- Hand-picking insects or using light traps and sticky traps.
- Netting and row covers to stop insects from reaching crops.
- Use of temperature control to kill storage pests.
d) Chemical Control (Pesticides)
- Use only when pest level crosses economic threshold level (ETL).
- Always use recommended dose and right pesticide.
- Avoid overuse, as it causes resistance and pollution.
e) Genetic Control
- Using pest-resistant crop varieties.
- GM crops like Bt cotton help in controlling bollworm.
f) Legal Control
- Government can help by banning harmful pesticides.
- Quarantine laws to stop entry of foreign pests.
Effectiveness, Economic and Environmental Acceptability
Effectiveness
- IPM gives long-term solution by breaking pest cycle.
- Reduces chances of resistance development in pests.
Economic Acceptability
- Farmers save money by reducing pesticide use.
- Higher crop yield and better-quality increases income.
- Low-cost biological and cultural methods help small farmers.
Environmental Acceptability
- Avoids heavy chemical use, so less pollution.
- Protects useful insects, soil, water, and human health.
- Safer for farmers and consumers.
Conclusion
Controlling pests is very important for food security, farmer profit, and export quality. But using only pesticides is not the right way. We need integrated pest management, which is safe, cheap, and effective. Pakistan should promote IPM through farmer training, research, and government support. By this, we can grow more crops with less damage to health and nature.
Question 4
What are the main issues of livestock, fisheries and cottage industries in Pakistan? Discuss options for improvement of these industries in the country taking account of market risks and government policies.
Introduction
Agriculture is not only about crops. In Pakistan, livestock, fisheries, and cottage industries also play a big role in rural economy and employment. But sadly, these sectors are ignored, and they face many problems. If we improve these areas, we can increase farmer income and reduce poverty. Let’s discuss their issues and solutions one by one.
Issues in Livestock Sector
- Low-quality breeds of animals with less milk and meat production.
- Lack of veterinary services in rural areas.
- Poor feeding practices and shortage of green fodder.
- Diseases like foot and mouth disease, mastitis, etc.
- No proper system for milk storage and transportation.
- Limited research and development for breed improvement.
Issues in Fisheries Sector
- Overfishing and illegal fishing methods damage fish stock.
- Pollution in rivers and coastal areas reduces fish population.
- Lack of modern fish farming techniques.
- No proper cold storage or transport for fish products.
- Poor market access for small fish farmers.
- Weak policies and laws to protect marine resources.
Issues in Cottage Industries
- These industries include handicrafts, small-scale food processing, animal products, etc.
- Lack of financial support and credit facilities.
- No training for design improvement and product quality.
- Poor marketing and branding of products.
- Middlemen take large share; farmers get less profit.
- No protection from market fluctuations.
Options for Improvement
a) For Livestock Sector
- Government should start animal breeding programs for high-yield breeds.
- More vet centers and mobile clinics in villages.
- Promote balanced feeding and fodder cultivation.
- Train farmers about animal health and hygiene.
- Build milk collection and chilling centers near farms.
- Support for meat export sector to earn foreign exchange.
b) For Fisheries Sector
- Ban on illegal nets and overfishing.
- Provide training in aquaculture and modern fish farming.
- Establish cold chain for fish transport.
- Invest in fish hatcheries and breeding centers.
- Protect mangroves and marine habitats.
- Form fishermen cooperatives to reduce exploitation.
c) For Cottage Industries
- Give easy loans and microcredit for small businesses.
- Start training programs for skills and product design.
- Help in online marketing and exhibitions.
- Provide branding and packaging support.
- Reduce taxes and provide legal protections to small producers.
Market Risks and Government Policies
- Market risks include price fluctuations, lack of buyers, and seasonal demand.
- Government must ensure minimum support prices or insurance schemes.
- Current policies are weak and not fully implemented.
- Need proper policy framework with farmer input.
- Subsidies and incentives should be given to livestock and fisheries, like crop farmers get.
Conclusion
Livestock, fisheries, and cottage industries are backbone of rural economy, but they are not given proper attention. With right policies, farmer education, and financial support, these sectors can grow fast. Pakistan can not only reduce poverty but also increase exports by improving these industries. Government and private sector both should work together to make this happen.
Question 5
Agricultural biotechnology is considered a short gun approach to improve productivity of traditional agriculture systems. What is the scope of this technology in Pakistan? Discuss in the light of the possible benefits and risks related to embracing different types of agricultural biotechnology.
Introduction
Agricultural biotechnology means using science and technology to improve crops, animals, and farming systems. It includes things like genetically modified organisms (GMOs), tissue culture, biopesticides, and more. People say it’s a “short gun approach” because it can quickly solve problems in traditional farming, like low yields, pests, and climate stress. In Pakistan, this technology has big scope, but also some risks.
Scope of Agricultural Biotechnology in Pakistan
- Pakistan is facing low crop productivity, water shortage, climate change, and pest attacks.
- Farmers are using old methods, and land fertility is also decreasing.
- With biotechnology, we can produce high-yielding, drought-resistant, and pest-tolerant crops.
- Pakistan has already started using Bt cotton, which is a GM crop.
- Research institutes like NIBGE, PARC, and NIAB are working on biotech, but on a small scale.
- There is huge potential if government gives proper support and funding.
Benefits of Agricultural Biotechnology
a) Higher Crop Yield
- Biotech crops grow faster and give more output per acre.
- Farmers can earn more profit with same land.
b) Pest and Disease Resistance
- GM crops like Bt cotton are made to resist certain insects.
- It reduces the need of chemical pesticides, which saves money and environment.
c) Drought and Salinity Tolerance
- Some crops are modified to grow with less water or in salty soil.
- Helpful for areas like Tharparkar, Cholistan, and coastal regions.
d) Better Nutritional Quality
- Bio-fortified crops have more vitamins and minerals.
- Example: Golden rice with Vitamin A helps in reducing blindness.
e) Faster Breeding
- Techniques like tissue culture and marker-assisted breeding make it easy to develop better varieties quickly.
f) Environment Friendly
- Less use of chemicals, so less pollution.
- Protects beneficial insects and improves soil health.
Risks and Concerns of Agricultural Biotechnology
a) Health Risks
- Some people believe that GM foods may cause allergies or other health issues.
- No clear long-term studies yet.
b) Environmental Risks
- GM crops may affect non-target species or reduce biodiversity.
- Cross-pollination can mix genes with wild plants.
c) Ethical and Religious Issues
- Some people don’t accept GM foods due to religious or ethical reasons.
- Public awareness is very low in Pakistan.
d) Monopoly by Big Companies
- Biotech seeds are made by big companies like Monsanto.
- Farmers have to buy seeds every year, which increases cost.
e) Weak Regulations
- Pakistan doesn’t have strong biosafety laws.
- Lack of proper monitoring and lab testing.
Recommendations
- Government should invest in research and make local biotech seeds.
- Create strong biosafety laws and testing labs.
- Give subsidies for biotech inputs to poor farmers.
- Launch awareness campaigns to educate people.
- Support public-private partnerships in biotechnology.
Conclusion
Agricultural biotechnology has the power to change farming in Pakistan, making it more productive, climate-smart, and profitable. But it also brings some risks, so we should move forward with caution and proper planning. If used wisely, it can help us solve many agriculture problems and achieve food security in the future.
Question 6
What combinations of forestry, agroforestry, grass cover, water-collecting systems and storage facilities, drought resistant crops and water-saving technologies are needed in dryland areas of Pakistan in order to increase food production, and to what extent can they become cost-effective?
Introduction
Dryland areas of Pakistan like Cholistan, Thar, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Balochistan face serious problems like low rainfall, water shortage, poor soil, and high temperature. Still, many people live there and depend on agriculture and livestock. To increase food production, we need to use multiple techniques together, not just one. These must be low-cost, sustainable, and suitable for local conditions.
Needed Combinations for Drylands
a) Forestry and Agroforestry
- Planting trees like Acacia, Eucalyptus, and Prosopis to stop wind erosion and increase soil fertility.
- Agroforestry means growing crops between trees, which provides shade, moisture, and extra income.
- Trees improve microclimate and provide fodder and fuel wood.
b) Grass Cover
- Grasses like Sewan, Lasiurus, and Cenchrus help in soil binding and moisture retention.
- Provide fodder for livestock.
- Prevents soil erosion and increases organic matter in soil.
c) Water-Collecting Systems
- Rainwater harvesting through ponds, small dams, and check dams.
- Use of terracing and bunds to collect and store rainwater on fields.
- Helps recharge groundwater and store water for dry periods.
d) Water Storage Facilities
- Underground tanks (tanka) and lined ponds to store water for domestic and irrigation use.
- Drip tanks, solar pumps, and community wells can help farmers during droughts.
e) Drought-Resistant Crops
- Grow crops that need less water and can survive in harsh climate.
- Examples: Millets, Sorghum, Mung bean, Guar, and drought-tolerant wheat and cotton varieties.
- Also promote indigenous varieties that are already adapted to local environment.
f) Water-Saving Technologies
- Use drip irrigation and sprinklers to reduce water waste.
- Practice mulching to stop evaporation.
- Zero tillage and conservation agriculture methods save both water and fuel.
Cost-Effectiveness of These Approaches
a) Low Input Cost
- Most of these methods like planting local trees or collecting rainwater need one-time investment only.
- After setup, they need low maintenance.
b) Increased Yield
- Drought-resistant crops give better yield in dry conditions.
- Less chance of crop failure, so farmers get stable income.
c) Multi-purpose Benefits
- Agroforestry and grasses give fodder, fuel, and fruits, which means diversified income.
- Rainwater systems help in livestock and domestic use also.
d) Long-Term Sustainability
- These are eco-friendly and improve soil and water for long-term use.
- Reduced chemical inputs lower the cost even more.
e) Community-Based Projects
- Many projects can be done on community level, reducing individual burden.
- Example: Cholistan Development Project helped improve water access using small dams.
Challenges in Implementation
- Lack of awareness among local farmers.
- Initial investment may be difficult for poor farmers.
- Need government support, NGO involvement, and training programs.
Conclusion
To increase food production in Pakistan’s drylands, we must use a combined approach. Forestry, agroforestry, drought-tolerant crops, water storage, and smart irrigation – all are needed together. These methods are cost-effective, sustainable, and also help in climate change adaptation. Government and local people must work hand-in-hand to make drylands productive and secure Pakistan’s food future.
Question 7
In view of the present status of forests in Pakistan, what could be the most practical and economical methods of wood utilization in general and in wood based industry of the country in particular?
Introduction
Pakistan is a forest-poor country. Only around 5% of the total land is under forest cover, which is much below the international standard (should be 20-25%). Still, wood demand is increasing, especially for fuel, construction, and furniture. So, we need to use our wood in a more practical and economical way, especially in the wood-based industries like furniture, paper, sports goods, etc.
Present Status of Forests in Pakistan
- Total forest area is approx. 4.5 million hectares.
- Major forests: Coniferous (North areas), Riverine (Sindh, Punjab), Mangroves (coastal areas), Scrub forests (Punjab, KP).
- Deforestation rate is high, due to illegal logging, population pressure, overgrazing, and land use change.
- Forest wood is mostly used as fuelwood (about 80%), especially in rural areas.
Practical and Economical Methods of Wood Utilization (General Use)
a) Use of Farm Forestry and Private Plantations
- Encourage farmers to grow fast-growing trees like Eucalyptus, Poplar, Sheesham on farmlands.
- Reduces pressure on natural forests and provides timber and fuelwood locally.
b) Use of Alternative Fuels
- Promote LPG, solar cookers, and biogas in rural areas to reduce fuelwood use.
- Less cutting of forest trees means better wood conservation.
c) Improved Cooking Stoves
- Use energy-efficient stoves that need less wood.
- Example: “Sawan stoves” used in some villages save up to 30% wood.
d) Reduce Wastage During Harvesting
- Train local people to use scientific logging methods.
- Avoid burning of branches; they can be used for charcoal or compost.
e) Promote Use of Compressed Wood and Wood Substitutes
- Use wood chips, sawdust boards, compressed wood blocks, etc.
- Less use of solid timber, more from waste materials.
Economical Methods in Wood-Based Industry (Particular Use)
a) Efficient Saw Mills
- Modern sawmills reduce waste of timber during cutting.
- Use of band saws instead of traditional ones saves 10-15% more wood.
b) Use of Veneer and Plywood
- Plywood and laminated boards use thin layers of wood, reducing solid wood use.
- Used widely in furniture and packaging.
c) Paper and Pulp Industry from Fast-Growing Trees
- Grow special pulpwood species like Eucalyptus for paper industry.
- Reduces dependence on natural forest trees.
d) Use of Wood Waste for Panels and Boards
- Sawdust, wood shavings, and leftovers can be used to make particle boards, fiber boards, etc.
- Used in furniture, construction, and interior decoration.
e) Promotion of Bamboo and Other Alternatives
- Bamboo grows fast and can be used in furniture, flooring, panels, etc.
- Much cheaper and eco-friendly.
f) Technology and Skill Upgradation
- Train workers in CNC machines, design software, and modern furniture-making.
- Reduces waste and improves quality, leading to better export products.
Role of Government and Policy Support
- Encourage public-private partnerships in wood industries.
- Give incentives and subsidies on farm forestry.
- Strict action against illegal logging and smuggling.
- Promote research and development in wood-saving technologies.
Conclusion
Pakistan cannot afford to waste its wood. With such limited forest resources, it is very important to use wood in a smart, economical, and sustainable way. By promoting efficient technologies, waste reduction, and alternative resources, we can reduce pressure on forests and support our wood-based industries. This will help both environment and economy in long run.
Question 8
Why is rangeland so important for agricultural economy of Pakistan? Explain the need, ways and means for integrated management of grazing lands, cropland and livestock production in Pakistan.
Introduction
Rangelands are large open lands with natural grasses, shrubs, and few trees. In Pakistan, they cover about 60% of total land area, mostly in Balochistan, Punjab (Thal), Sindh, and KPK. These lands are mainly used for grazing animals like goats, sheep, and camels. Even though they are ignored in policy making, rangelands have huge importance for rural economy and livestock sector.
Importance of Rangeland in Pakistan’s Agricultural Economy
- Livestock Dependency: About 80% of livestock feed comes from rangelands.
- Rural Livelihood: Many rural families depend on grazing animals for milk, meat, wool, and income.
- Low Input Source: Rangelands give free or low-cost feed, reducing cost of livestock farming.
- Biodiversity Support: Rangelands support native plants and animals, important for ecosystem balance.
- Drought Buffer: In dry periods, rangelands are the main source of feed when crops fail.
- Export Potential: Livestock raised on rangelands can be exported for halal meat, leather, etc.
Problems Facing Rangelands in Pakistan
- Overgrazing due to high number of animals.
- Soil erosion and desertification from loss of grass cover.
- Invasive weeds replacing useful grasses.
- No proper management or ownership (mostly government land).
- Lack of water sources and infrastructure.
- Neglect by policymakers, no serious funding or programs.
Need for Integrated Management
To save and improve rangelands, we must use integrated management, which means linking grazing lands, croplands, and livestock systems in a balanced and planned way.
Ways and Means for Integrated Management
a) Controlled/Rotational Grazing
- Divide rangelands into parts and rotate animals.
- Gives time for grass to regrow and reduce overgrazing.
b) Reseeding and Grass Improvement
- Plant useful grasses and legumes to improve forage quality.
- Example: Cenchrus ciliaris and Stylosanthes are good options.
c) Water Resource Development
- Build small ponds, wells, and tanks to provide water for animals and plants.
- Rainwater harvesting can also help in dry areas.
d) Agro-pastoral System
- Mix farming where farmers grow crops and also keep animals.
- Crop residues (like wheat straw) can feed animals, and animal manure improves soil.
e) Silvopasture
- Grow trees + grasses + animals together.
- Trees give shade, fodder, and fuelwood. Grasses feed livestock.
f) Fodder Cultivation on Cropland
- Grow green fodder like maize, berseem, and lucerne on farmland to reduce pressure on rangeland.
g) Community-Based Management
- Local people manage rangelands together with rules and rotation.
- Government can support through training and funding.
h) Animal Population Control
- Avoid keeping too many animals beyond land capacity.
- Promote better breeds that give more milk/meat with fewer animals.
i) Policy Support
- Government must include rangelands in national agriculture policy.
- Provide extension services, credit, and research support.
Benefits of Integrated Management
- Higher livestock productivity
- Better soil and water conservation
- Less conflict between farmers and graziers
- Improved food security
- More income and employment in rural areas
Conclusion
Rangelands are a hidden treasure of Pakistan’s agriculture. They support millions of livestock and poor families. But they are under serious threat due to neglect and misuse. With integrated management of grazing lands, croplands, and livestock, we can make these lands productive, sustainable, and beneficial for the whole country. Government, farmers, and local communities must work together to save and utilize rangelands wisely.
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