CSS Past Paper 2020 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2020 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2020 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
What do you understand by soil fertility? How soil fertility of arable lands can be maintained in good shape? How trees could be helpful in reclaiming water-logged and saline soils?
Introduction
Soil fertility means the ability of soil to provide essential nutrients to crops for better growth. A fertile soil supports high yield and good quality crops. It has enough nutrients, good structure, proper pH, and strong biological activity. Without fertile soil, agriculture cannot survive.
Meaning of Soil Fertility
Soil fertility is not just about nutrients. It also includes:
- Proper balance of nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)
- Right pH level (usually between 6.0 to 7.5)
- Good water holding capacity
- Enough organic matter like humus
- Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi which help plant roots
So, a fertile soil gives better crops and keeps the environment healthy.
How Soil Fertility of Arable Land Can Be Maintained?
Arable land is the land used for growing crops. To keep its fertility in good shape, we need to follow some practices:
a. Crop Rotation
- Growing different crops each season
- Example: wheat followed by legumes
- Helps in avoiding pest attack and balances nutrients
b. Use of Organic Manures
- Farmyard manure (FYM), compost, and green manure
- Increases organic matter and improves soil texture
c. Balanced Use of Fertilizers
- Apply NPK according to crop needs
- Don’t overuse chemical fertilizers
d. Soil Testing
- Regular soil tests help in understanding nutrient levels
- Helps farmers to apply correct fertilizers
e. Minimum Tillage
- Avoids breaking soil structure
- Protects microorganisms
f. Cover Crops
- Plants grown during off-season
- Reduce erosion and add organic matter
g. Water Management
- Avoid over-irrigation
- Helps in preventing salinity and nutrient leaching
Role of Trees in Reclaiming Water-Logged and Saline Soils
Trees can play a big role in improving problem soils. Here’s how:
a. Lowering Water Table
- Trees like Eucalyptus and Acacia take up a lot of water
- Reduce water-logging by absorbing extra underground water
b. Salt Absorption
- Some trees can take in salts from the soil
- Example: Tamarix species help reduce soil salinity
c. Improve Soil Structure
- Tree roots create pores in soil
- Makes soil loose and allows water to drain better
d. Organic Matter Addition
- Falling leaves and branches add organic matter
- Helps to bind soil particles and reduce salt concentration
e. Windbreaks
- Trees act as barriers against wind
- Reduces wind erosion, which is common in dry saline lands
Conclusion
Soil fertility is the base of agriculture. To protect it, farmers need to use smart farming methods. Trees also help in making damaged soils useful again. Pakistan should focus on maintaining fertility to ensure food security for future generations.
Question 3
Discuss the role of integrated nutrient management to sustain soil quality and fertility.
Introduction
Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) is a modern way of managing nutrients in farming. It means using both natural (organic) and artificial (chemical) sources of plant nutrients together. This method keeps the soil healthy, improves crop yield, and protects the environment. It’s very important for countries like Pakistan where soil fertility is going down due to overuse of chemical fertilizers.
What is Integrated Nutrient Management (INM)?
INM is a system where:
- Organic sources like farmyard manure (FYM), compost, green manure, and biofertilizers are used
- Inorganic fertilizers like urea, DAP, potash are also applied
- The goal is to balance the nutrients in the soil, not just boost them quickly
- It focuses on long-term soil health instead of short-term high yield
Importance of INM in Sustaining Soil Quality and Fertility
a. Maintains Soil Nutrient Balance
- Prevents deficiency or excess of nutrients
- Gives all required macro and micro nutrients to plants
b. Improves Soil Structure and Texture
- Organic matter from manure improves soil porosity
- Helps roots to grow easily and water to absorb properly
c. Boosts Microbial Activity
- Compost and biofertilizers increase good microbes in soil
- Microbes break down nutrients into forms plants can absorb
d. Reduces Chemical Dependency
- Too much chemical fertilizer can damage soil
- INM reduces the need for high chemical input
e. Controls Soil Erosion and Pollution
- Organic materials hold the soil together
- Less chances of fertilizers being washed into rivers and lakes
f. Enhances Water Holding Capacity
- Soils with good organic matter keep more moisture
- Useful in dry areas and reduces irrigation needs
g. Supports Sustainable Agriculture
- INM is eco-friendly and cost-effective
- Helps in long-term farming without damaging soil
Components of INM
i. Organic Manures
- FYM, compost, poultry litter
- Adds carbon and nutrients to soil
ii. Green Manuring
- Growing plants like Sesbania and plowing them back into the soil
- Adds nitrogen and improves fertility
iii. Biofertilizers
- Use of living microbes like Rhizobium, Azotobacter
- Helps fix nitrogen and solubilize phosphorus
iv. Chemical Fertilizers
- Urea, DAP, MOP for quick and targeted nutrient supply
- Must be used carefully and as per soil testing
Role of INM in Pakistan’s Agriculture
- Pakistani farmers mostly rely on chemical fertilizers
- Soils are becoming poor in micronutrients and organic matter
- INM can help reduce input cost and increase production sustainably
- Govt should promote INM through training, subsidies, and awareness programs
Conclusion
Integrated Nutrient Management is the need of the hour. It keeps soil alive and productive. By combining organic and inorganic methods, we can feed crops and protect our soil at the same time. For food security and healthy farming in Pakistan, INM is the best path forward.
Question 4
Food security, food safety and climate change are the main challenges at national level. What are various factors associated with these issues and how can we tackle them?
Introduction
In Pakistan, food security, food safety, and climate change are serious challenges. Many people don’t have enough food, and even when food is available, it’s not always safe or nutritious. On top of that, climate change is making things worse by damaging crops and changing weather patterns. If we don’t act now, the situation can become very dangerous for future generations.
Food Security
a. Definition:
Food security means that all people have access to enough, safe, and nutritious food at all times.
b. Problems in Pakistan:
- Population is growing fast
- Poor storage and transport system
- Floods and droughts destroy crops
- Dependence on few crops like wheat and rice
- Lack of support for small farmers
c. Factors Affecting Food Security:
- Low crop yield due to poor seeds and farming methods
- Land degradation and water shortage
- Inflation and high food prices
- Unemployment and poverty
Food Safety
a. Definition:
Food safety means the food should be free from chemicals, germs, and other harmful things.
b. Food Safety Issues in Pakistan:
- Use of pesticides and fertilizers beyond safe limits
- Adulteration (mixing harmful or low-quality stuff in food)
- Contaminated water used for washing and irrigation
- No strong checking system or labs in markets
c. Results:
- People get sick from food poisoning
- Loss of trust in local food
- Export problems due to low food quality standards
Climate Change
a. Impacts on Agriculture:
- Temperature rising, leading to heat stress on crops
- Rain patterns have changed; sometimes too much rain, sometimes no rain
- Glaciers melting, affecting rivers and irrigation
- More pest and disease attacks on crops
b. Examples from Pakistan:
- 2022 floods destroyed large areas of farmland
- Droughts in Balochistan and Thar affect livestock and crops
- Wheat and cotton yields are declining due to high temperatures
How to Tackle These Issues?
a. For Food Security:
- Improve seed quality and farming techniques
- Build better storage and transport systems
- Support farmers with loans, training, and insurance
- Grow a variety of crops, not just wheat and rice
b. For Food Safety:
- Strong food inspection system needed
- Train farmers to use safe levels of chemicals
- Promote organic farming
- Public awareness campaigns about hygiene
c. For Climate Change:
- Grow climate-resilient crops
- Improve irrigation with drip and sprinkle systems
- Plant more trees and stop cutting forests
- Use renewable energy like solar and wind
Conclusion
Food security, food safety, and climate change are all connected. If we don’t manage them now, they will affect our economy, health, and future. Government, farmers, and people—all must work together. With smart policies and new technology, Pakistan can fight these problems and become a food-secure and climate-safe country.
Question 5
What is the role of cottage industry in improving the rural development? What are the major cottage industries linked to agriculture and livestock?
Introduction
Cottage industry means small-scale, home-based work mostly done in villages or small towns. It plays a very important role in rural development because it gives jobs, increases income, and reduces poverty. In Pakistan, many people in villages depend on agriculture and livestock, and cottage industries are often linked with these sectors.
Role of Cottage Industry in Rural Development
a. Job Creation
- Cottage industries give work to people who don’t own land
- Women and elderly can also earn from home
b. Income Generation
- Families can earn extra money besides farming
- Helps reduce poverty and improve lifestyle
c. Utilization of Local Resources
- Uses local raw materials like cotton, milk, wool, etc.
- No need for high investment
d. Women Empowerment
- Women make handicrafts, embroidery, dairy products at home
- Increases their role in family income
e. Reduces Urban Migration
- When villagers get income locally, they don’t go to cities for work
- Helps control overcrowding in urban areas
f. Promotes Traditional Skills
- Keeps old cultural crafts and skills alive
- Attracts tourists and export markets
g. Supports Agriculture and Livestock
- Uses by-products from farming and animals
- Example: wheat straw used for baskets, milk for cheese or yogurt
h. Environmental Benefits
- Low pollution compared to big factories
- Often uses recycled or natural materials
Major Cottage Industries Linked to Agriculture and Livestock
a. Dairy Products
- Making butter, ghee, cheese, yogurt at home
- Common in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
b. Handicrafts
- Use cotton from fields to make clothes, rugs, bags
- Sindh and Balochistan famous for embroidery and handmade items
c. Wool and Leather Products
- Sheep wool used for shawls, carpets, jackets
- Leather from animals used for shoes, belts, wallets
d. Fruit and Vegetable Processing
- Making pickles, jams, dried fruits
- Helps reduce waste and earns good money
e. Bee Keeping and Honey Production
- Linked with natural vegetation and flowers
- Cottage-level honey making is common in hilly areas
f. Handmade Tools and Equipment
- Simple farm tools like sickles, spades made locally
- Saves cost and easy to repair
g. Pottery and Basket Making
- Uses clay and straw from fields
- Used for storage and decoration
h. Poultry and Egg Production
- Backyard poultry farming is part of rural cottage industry
- Eggs and meat are sold in nearby markets
Conclusion
Cottage industry is like the backbone of rural economy. It supports families, empowers women, and creates jobs using local resources. Pakistan should invest more in training, tools, and market access for these small industries. This will make villages stronger and more self-reliant, which is key for national development.
Question 6
What is the status and significance of small ruminants in the existing food chain? What are different grazing systems in vogue for small ruminants? How livestock wealth of the country has benefited from existing range and forest resources?
Introduction
Small ruminants like goats and sheep play a big role in Pakistan’s rural economy. They provide meat, milk, wool, and hide. These animals are easy to raise and can survive in dry, hilly, and poor areas where big animals like cows can’t survive. In the national food chain, small ruminants help in food supply, nutrition, and rural income.
Status and Significance of Small Ruminants
a. Large Population
- Pakistan has over 70 million goats and 30 million sheep (approx.)
- Mostly kept by small farmers and landless people
b. Source of Food
- Provide meat (mutton), milk, and cheese
- Mutton is more expensive than beef and has high demand
c. Income for Poor Families
- Many rural families sell animals during Eid and wedding seasons
- A source of savings and emergency cash
d. Wool and Hides
- Sheep wool is used for carpets and warm clothes
- Goat hides used in leather industries
e. Low Cost Farming
- Need less feed and water compared to cows
- Can graze on bushes and poor grasslands
f. Role in National Economy
- Livestock sector gives about 60% of agriculture income
- Export of mutton and leather brings foreign exchange
Grazing Systems for Small Ruminants
There are different systems used by farmers depending on land, weather, and animal type.
a. Free Grazing System
- Animals move freely in open lands, hills, or deserts
- Common in Balochistan and Tharparkar
- Low cost but difficult to manage diseases and theft
b. Tethering
- Animals tied near the house and fed cut grass or leaves
- Useful in small villages with less land
- Easy to manage and watch animals
c. Rotational Grazing
- Grazing area is divided into parts and animals are shifted after some days
- Gives time for grass to regrow
- Improves land health and animal nutrition
d. Transhumance System
- Seasonal movement of animals from one place to another
- In summer, animals go to hills; in winter, they come down
- Used by nomadic and tribal people
e. Semi-Intensive System
- Animals graze during day and get extra feed at night
- Balances nutrition and reduces land pressure
Role of Range and Forest Resources in Supporting Livestock Wealth
a. Natural Grazing Land
- Pakistan has around 60% rangelands
- Areas like Cholistan, Thal, and Koh-e-Suleman are used for grazing
b. Forest Leaves and Bushes
- Forests provide leaves, pods, and branches as animal feed
- Example: Acacia, Prosopis, and Ber trees used for goats and sheep
c. Shelter and Shade
- Forests give protection from sun and heat, especially in summer
- Helps in reducing animal stress
d. Support to Nomadic Life
- Nomads move through forests and ranges with their flocks
- These areas are lifelines for such communities
e. Medicinal Plants and Minerals
- Animals often eat plants that help in digestion and disease control
- Some soils in forests give natural salts
f. Threats and Misuse
- Overgrazing and deforestation are reducing these resources
- Need for better management and protection
Conclusion
Small ruminants are a treasure for Pakistan’s rural people. They give food, money, and support the agriculture system. But to keep this going, we must protect our grazing lands and forests. Govt should train farmers, improve veterinary care, and manage ranges properly. This will help the livestock sector grow and support food security.
Question 7
What are the differences amongst agroforests, urban forests, man-made plantations and state forests? Describe the significance of agroforestry in Pakistan. Why Eucalyptus camaldulensis is not recommended for agroforestry?
Introduction
Forests are important for environment, economy, and human life. But not all forests are the same. In Pakistan, we have different types like agroforests, urban forests, man-made plantations, and state forests. Each has its own purpose and location. Agroforestry is especially important for farmers and rural areas. Some tree species like Eucalyptus camaldulensis are avoided in such systems due to negative impacts.
Differences Between Forest Types
| Type | Description | Main Purpose |
| Agroforests | Combination of trees and crops on the same land | Increase income and improve soil fertility |
| Urban Forests | Trees planted in cities and towns (parks, roadsides, etc.) | Control pollution, improve beauty, shade |
| Man-made Plantations | Trees planted by humans for specific purpose (timber, paper, etc.) | Commercial use, fast growth |
| State Forests | Government-owned natural or protected forests | Conservation, ecosystem protection, biodiversity |
Significance of Agroforestry in Pakistan
Agroforestry is a system where trees, crops, and sometimes animals are raised together. This system is very useful for countries like Pakistan with high population and pressure on land.
a. Improves Soil Fertility
- Leaves and roots of trees add organic matter
- Fix nitrogen in soil (e.g., Acacia)
b. Additional Income for Farmers
- Wood, fruits, leaves can be sold
- Helps during crop failure
c. Reduces Soil Erosion
- Tree roots hold soil tightly
- Stops water and wind from removing topsoil
d. Improves Microclimate
- Trees give shade, reduce heat stress for crops and animals
- Controls humidity and wind speed
e. Efficient Use of Land
- Trees grow vertically; crops grow on the ground
- Gives more output from same land
f. Source of Fodder and Fuelwood
- Tree leaves used to feed animals
- Branches used for firewood in rural areas
g. Environmental Benefits
- Trees absorb carbon dioxide
- Helps in reducing climate change impacts
h. Cultural and Social Benefits
- Traditional systems of farming
- Encourages cooperation in rural communities
Why Eucalyptus camaldulensis is Not Recommended for Agroforestry?
Eucalyptus camaldulensis is a fast-growing tree, but it has many problems, especially in farming areas.
a. High Water Consumption
- Roots absorb a lot of underground water
- Lowers water table, harmful for crops nearby
b. Allelopathic Effect
- Releases chemicals from roots and leaves
- Stops nearby plants from growing well
c. Soil Degradation
- Dries out soil and reduces nutrients
- Increases salinity in some areas
d. Not Suitable for Animals
- Leaves are not good as fodder
- Animals don’t eat them
e. Environmental Risks
- Encourages monoculture (only one species)
- Reduces biodiversity and native plants
Because of these reasons, experts advise using native species like Acacia, Moringa, or Dalbergia for agroforestry instead of Eucalyptus.
Conclusion
Different types of forests serve different roles in Pakistan’s development. Agroforestry is very helpful for farmers, soil health, and income generation. But we must choose the right tree species. Eucalyptus camaldulensis, though fast-growing, causes harm to water and soil, so it’s not good for agroforestry. By promoting local trees and good management, we can make our agriculture more productive and sustainable.
Question 8
Which are the major wood based industries in Pakistan? Which tree species are important for these industries? How can we reduce the wood losses during utilization in Pakistan?
Introduction
Wood-based industries play an important role in Pakistan’s economy. They provide furniture, paper, matches, and many other daily-use items. These industries also give jobs to thousands of people. But due to deforestation and poor wood handling, we face many challenges. Efficient use of wood and choosing the right tree species can improve this sector.
Major Wood-Based Industries in Pakistan
a. Furniture Industry
- One of the biggest wood-based sectors in Pakistan
- Based in Chiniot, Gujrat, Sargodha, Peshawar, and Karachi
- Uses Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo), Kikar, and Walnut wood
b. Plywood and Veneer Industry
- Produces boards used in doors, panels, and walls
- Located in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Karachi
- Uses Poplar, Simaruba, and Eucalyptus
c. Matchstick Industry
- Needs softwood for making match splints
- Mostly in NWFP (now KP), especially in Swat and Mardan
- Uses Poplar and Willow
d. Sports Goods Industry
- Based in Sialkot
- Makes bats, rackets, and hockey sticks
- Uses Willow, Mulberry, and Ash wood
e. Paper and Pulp Industry
- Uses wood chips and pulpwood
- Mills located in Lahore, Hattar, and Gujranwala
- Uses Eucalyptus, Poplar, Kikar
f. Wood Carving and Handicrafts
- Handcrafted items made in Chiniot, Swat, and Hala
- Sheesham and Deodar are mostly used
Tree Species Important for Wood Industries
| Tree Species | Uses in Industry |
| Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo) | High-quality furniture and carving |
| Kikar (Acacia nilotica) | Strong wood for construction, fuelwood |
| Eucalyptus | Pulp, paper, and fast-growing fuelwood |
| Poplar | Matchsticks, plywood, packing materials |
| Mulberry (Morus alba) | Sports goods and tools |
| Willow | Cricket bats and match splints |
| Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii) | Softwood for construction and furniture |
| Deodar (Cedrus deodara) | Durable wood used in high-end furniture |
How to Reduce Wood Losses During Utilization?
a. Better Harvesting Methods
- Use sharp tools and machines to avoid wastage
- Cut trees at the right age and time
b. Training for Workers
- Educate carpenters and sawmill workers to reduce waste
- Promote modern cutting and drying techniques
c. Proper Seasoning and Drying
- Dry wood properly before use to avoid cracking and bending
- Reduces rejection and improves durability
d. Use of Wood Alternatives
- Use MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), plastic wood, bamboo in place of solid wood
- Saves natural forest wood
e. Wood Recovery from Waste
- Collect and reuse sawdust, shavings, and off-cuts
- Can be used in particle boards or fuel briquettes
f. Encourage Plantation Forestry
- Grow fast-growing trees on private land
- Reduces pressure on natural forests
g. Improve Transport and Storage
- Cover wood during transport to avoid rain and sunlight damage
- Store in dry, shaded areas to protect quality
Conclusion
Wood-based industries are vital for Pakistan’s economy and rural jobs. But due to poor management, a lot of wood is wasted. By choosing the right tree species, using modern tools, and training workers, we can reduce wood losses. Also, encouraging plantation and alternative materials can make this sector more sustainable.
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