CSS Past Paper 2021 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2021 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2021 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
Discuss the applicability, affordability and effectiveness of Precision Agriculture in prevailing farming systems.
Introduction
Pakistan’s agriculture is facing many problems like low productivity, climate change, water shortage and rising costs. In this situation, Precision Agriculture (PA) can help to improve farming in a smart and efficient way. It uses modern technologies like GPS, sensors, drones, and data analysis to give crops the exact amount of water, fertilizer, and pesticides they need.
Applicability of Precision Agriculture in Pakistan
a. Farm Size and Land Holding
In Pakistan, most farms are small and divided. This makes it hard to apply full-scale precision agriculture. But still, some parts of PA like drip irrigation, mobile apps for weather and soil testing are being used even in small farms.
b. Crop Type and Management
PA is more applicable in crops like wheat, rice, sugarcane, cotton, and maize. These are major crops in Pakistan and can benefit from variable rate application of inputs.
c. Technology and Infrastructure
In big farms like in Punjab and Sindh, some farmers already using PA tools like satellite imaging and GIS. But rural areas still have low access to internet and electricity, so it’s a challenge.
d. Education and Training
Most farmers are not aware of new tech. So, without training and extension services, the full use of PA is difficult.
Affordability of Precision Agriculture
a. High Initial Cost
PA tools like drones, GPS tractors, and soil sensors are very expensive. Small farmers can’t afford it easily.
b. Lack of Subsidy or Government Support
In developed countries, govts give subsidies for PA. In Pakistan, this support is missing, which makes it less affordable for farmers.
c. Sharing Models
Some cooperatives and service providers offer PA tools on rent or contract basis. This makes it somewhat affordable for small farmers too.
d. Cost-Benefit Ratio
Though initial cost is high, in long term PA saves inputs, increases yield, and gives profit. So, it is economical in long run if applied properly.
Effectiveness of Precision Agriculture
a. Better Resource Use
PA helps to use water, fertilizer and pesticides in the right amount. It reduces wastage and environmental damage.
b. Increased Yield and Profit
Studies show that PA increases productivity by 10-20% and reduces input costs by 15-25%. This helps farmers earn more.
c. Climate Change Adaptation
PA supports smart farming under climate stress. Sensors can detect drought stress or pest attacks early, and farmers can take action on time.
d. Data-Driven Decisions
With data from fields, farmers can decide what to grow, when to irrigate, and how much to fertilize. This improves decision-making.
Challenges to Implementation
- Lack of Awareness and Training
- Poor Infrastructure in Rural Areas
- Expensive Tools and No Loans
- Policy Gaps and Weak Extension System
Suggestions
- Govt should give subsidies on PA tools and training programs.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) can promote PA on national level.
- Universities and research centers should work on low-cost PA technologies.
- Mobile apps and tele-agriculture can help farmers use PA on small scale.
Conclusion
Precision Agriculture is a modern solution to many problems in our farming system. Even though it’s costly and has some challenges, its applicability is increasing, and in future it can change the way we farm. If made affordable and accessible, it can help Pakistan to achieve food security, higher yield, and sustainable agriculture.
Question 3
What changes do you foresee in our farming systems in post climate change era?
Introduction
Climate change is already affecting agriculture in Pakistan. It brings more heat, irregular rain, floods, droughts, and pests. In the post climate change era, our farming system cannot stay the same. Big changes will be needed to survive and feed the growing population. Farmers will have to change what they grow, how they grow, and when they grow.
Changes in Cropping Patterns
a. Shift in Crop Zones
Due to rising temperatures, crops like wheat may move to cooler northern areas, while heat-tolerant crops like millet, sorghum, and sunflower will be grown more in central and southern Punjab or Sindh.
b. Less Water-Intensive Crops
Rice and sugarcane need a lot of water, but water is getting scarce. So, farmers will move towards drought-resistant crops like maize, pulses, and oilseeds.
c. New High-Value Crops
Climate change will push farmers to grow high-profit crops like vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants that can survive harsh climates.
Changes in Irrigation Systems
a. Water Saving Techniques
Traditional flood irrigation wastes a lot of water. In the future, drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and laser leveling will be common.
b. Rainwater Harvesting
Due to changing rainfall patterns, farmers may start collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
c. Smart Irrigation
Use of moisture sensors and automatic irrigation systems may increase to save water and time.
Changes in Technology Use
a. Climate Smart Agriculture
Farmers will use weather apps, pest warning systems, and crop monitoring tools to handle sudden weather changes.
b. Use of Drones and Sensors
Drones will be used for crop spraying, field mapping, and pest detection. This will save inputs and improve timing.
c. Mechanization
To deal with labor shortage and to save time during uncertain weather, more machinery will be used in farming.
Soil and Fertility Management
a. Organic and Conservation Farming
Farmers may reduce use of chemical fertilizers and go for compost, green manure, and crop rotation to protect soil health.
b. Biofertilizers and Biopesticides
Due to increasing pest resistance and soil degradation, more natural and eco-friendly inputs will be used.
Pest and Disease Management
a. New Pest Outbreaks
Due to warmer climate, new pests and diseases will become common. Farmers will have to use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to protect crops.
b. More Dependence on Early Warning Systems
To avoid losses, farmers will use apps and govt alerts to get real-time pest warnings.
Livestock and Dairy Sector
a. Heat Stress on Animals
Farmers will need shaded housing and cooling systems to protect livestock from heatstroke.
b. Change in Feed Crops
Due to water shortage, fodder crops may change. Maize silage and dry feed might replace green fodder in many areas.
Policy and Farm Practices
a. Crop Insurance
Climate risks will push govt and private firms to launch more crop insurance schemes.
b. Carbon Farming
Some farmers may adopt practices that reduce carbon emissions and earn carbon credits.
c. Urban and Vertical Farming
To deal with land shortage and urbanization, more farming will be done in small spaces, rooftops, and vertical systems.
Conclusion
Climate change is not only an environmental issue; it’s a farming issue too. Our traditional farming system will not survive in its current form. Farmers will need to adapt new crops, tools, and techniques. With proper govt support, awareness, and training, Pakistan can still achieve food security in the post climate change era.
Question 4
Analyze critically the present sugar and wheat flour crisis, keeping in view its socio-economic constraints.
Introduction
Pakistan has been facing repeated sugar and wheat flour crises in the last few years. Prices go up, supplies get short, and common people suffer. These are not just natural problems. They are mostly caused by poor planning, hoarding, smuggling, corruption, and weak government control. The crisis has big effects on economy and society.
Causes of Wheat Flour Crisis
a. Low Production
Due to bad weather, water shortage, low-quality seeds and poor farm practices, wheat production drops. This causes shortage in the market.
b. Hoarding and Smuggling
Middlemen and traders store wheat in warehouses and wait for prices to go high. Also, wheat is smuggled to Afghanistan and other places, which creates local shortage.
c. Poor Procurement Policies
Government sometimes delays buying wheat from farmers. Due to this, private sector takes advantage and buys cheap from farmers and sells at high prices later.
d. High Input Costs
Fertilizers, fuel, and machinery costs are going up. This reduces farmer’s profit, so they don’t focus much on wheat.
Causes of Sugar Crisis
a. Low Sugarcane Payment
Sugar mills delay payments to farmers. Because of this, sugarcane area reduces, and production goes down.
b. Cartel and Monopoly
A few big sugar mill owners control the whole market. They fix prices and create artificial shortages to earn more profits.
c. Export Before Demand is Met
Govt allows sugar exports even before ensuring local needs. This causes local shortage and prices increase.
d. No Check on Mills
Mills often show fake data to avoid taxes. They also hide real sugar stock to increase market rates.
Socio-Economic Impact of the Crises
a. Inflation and Hunger
When wheat and sugar prices rise, poor people suffer the most. Roti becomes expensive and unaffordable for daily wage workers.
b. Public Protests and Political Pressure
High food prices lead to public anger. Protests increase, and govt faces pressure.
c. Burden on Government
To control the crisis, govt gives subsidies or imports wheat and sugar. This increases the budget deficit.
d. Farmer Losses
Small farmers are the biggest losers. They don’t get good price for their crops, but end consumers also suffer.
e. Trust Deficit
People lose trust in govt and system. They feel only the rich benefit while poor face problems.
Socio-Economic Constraints Behind These Crises
a. Weak Governance
Lack of control, corruption, and poor monitoring let mafias do what they want.
b. Political Influence
Many sugar mill owners are politicians. They use their power for their own benefit, not for public good.
c. Lack of Technology and Data
We don’t have good crop forecasting, storage, or monitoring systems. Govt acts late every time.
d. Unfair Distribution System
Distribution of flour and sugar is not transparent. BISP and utility stores fail to provide enough relief to poor.
Suggestions to Solve the Crisis
- Strict Action on Hoarding and Smuggling
- Digital Monitoring of Production and Stocks
- Support to Farmers with Inputs and Fair Prices
- Ban on Exports Until Local Demand is Met
- Subsidies Only to Needy, Not to Rich Mill Owners
- Improve Storage and Supply Chain Systems
Conclusion
The wheat and sugar crisis in Pakistan is man-made more than natural. Poor people suffer while powerful one’s profit. To stop this, we need strong political will, transparent policies, and farmer-friendly reforms. Only then we can ensure food security and fair prices for all.
Question 5
Describe zero tillage and mechanized tillage, their merits and demerits. Which one you would recommend and why?
Introduction
Tillage means preparing land for sowing crops. It helps to loosen the soil, remove weeds, and mix fertilizers. But now, due to high costs and environmental concerns, farmers are looking at better methods. Two important types are Zero Tillage and Mechanized Tillage. Both have different uses, benefits, and problems.
What is Zero Tillage?
Zero tillage (also called No-Till Farming) means planting crops directly into the soil without plowing it. It keeps the soil covered with old crop residue and reduces soil disturbance.
Example: After harvesting wheat, the next crop like maize or rice is planted directly without plowing.
Merits of Zero Tillage
- Saves Time and Fuel – No need for plowing or many field operations.
- Prevents Soil Erosion – Soil remains covered and protected.
- Improves Soil Health – Organic matter increases due to less disturbance.
- Water Conservation – More water is stored in soil due to residue cover.
- Less Labor Needed – Fewer operations reduce labor cost.
Demerits of Zero Tillage
- Weed Problems – Weeds can grow more as soil is not disturbed.
- Pest and Disease Risk – Crop residue can carry pests or diseases.
- Special Machinery Needed – Zero-till drills are not available everywhere.
- Not Suitable for All Soils – Heavy clay soils or poorly drained fields don’t work well.
What is Mechanized Tillage?
Mechanized tillage means using machines like tractors, plows, rotavators, cultivators etc., to prepare the land for sowing. It includes primary and secondary tillage operations.
Example: Tractor plowing a field using a disc plow, followed by harrowing and leveling.
Merits of Mechanized Tillage
- Fast and Efficient – Saves time in land preparation on large areas.
- Better Weed Control – Deep plowing kills weeds and pests.
- Mixes Fertilizer and Manure – Helps to blend inputs in soil.
- Improves Soil Aeration – Loose soil helps roots grow well.
Demerits of Mechanized Tillage
- High Cost of Fuel and Machines – Not affordable for small farmers.
- Soil Structure Damage – Over-tilling makes soil loose and erodes it.
- Water Loss – Bare soil loses more moisture due to evaporation.
- Soil Compaction Risk – Heavy tractors compact the lower soil layers.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Zero Tillage | Mechanized Tillage |
| Soil Disturbance | Very Low | High |
| Cost | Low (if equipment available) | High (machines and fuel needed) |
| Soil Health | Improves | Can damage if overused |
| Water Use | Efficient | Less efficient |
| Weed Control | Needs chemicals | Better with deep plowing |
Which One Do I Recommend and Why?
I recommend Zero Tillage, especially for wheat and rice cropping systems in Punjab and Sindh. This is because:
- It helps to save fuel and water, which is important in climate change.
- Soil erosion is less, and it improves long-term soil health.
- It is eco-friendly and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
- Some projects like Conservation Agriculture have shown success using zero till.
But I also believe that mechanized tillage is still useful where weeds are too much or soil is hard. So, a balanced approach is better—zero tillage where suitable, and light tillage where needed.
Conclusion
Both zero tillage and mechanized tillage have their place in agriculture. But in the modern era, sustainability, cost, and soil health matter more. Zero tillage gives long-term benefits and is better for small farmers if equipment and training are provided. Government should support such eco-friendly practices for better future farming.
Question 6
Discuss different Silvicultural systems suitable for natural as well as manmade forests.
Introduction
Silviculture means the science of growing and managing forests. It includes cutting old trees and growing new ones in a planned way. A silvicultural system is a method of managing forests to produce timber and keep the forest healthy. Different systems are used for natural forests (grown naturally) and manmade forests (planted by humans).
Objectives of Silvicultural Systems
- Sustainable wood production
- Forest regeneration (natural or artificial)
- Maintaining biodiversity and soil
- Supporting wildlife and water cycle
- Meeting social and industrial needs
Silvicultural Systems for Natural Forests
a. Selection System
- In this system, only mature and selected trees are cut at a time.
- Forest remains continuous with trees of all ages.
- New trees grow naturally under shade.
Suitable for: Uneven-aged natural forests, like in northern Pakistan (Hazara, Swat).
Benefits: Natural regeneration, no clear-cutting, biodiversity remains.
b. Shelterwood System
- Trees are removed in phases, giving shelter to new growing seedlings.
- After new trees grow, the old trees are gradually removed.
- Regeneration is natural.
Suitable for: Moist temperate forests.
Benefits: Protects young plants, controls erosion.
Limitation: Needs good planning and timing.
c. Clear-Cutting System
- All trees in an area are cut at once.
- Then replanting is done by seeds or saplings.
- Forest becomes even-aged.
Suitable for: Fast-growing natural forests or when regeneration is artificial.
Benefits: Simple, quick regeneration, good for timber.
Limitation: Can cause erosion, loss of habitat, and climate impact.
Silvicultural Systems for Manmade Forests
Manmade or artificial forests are planted by people for timber, fuelwood, or protection. Silvicultural systems here are more controlled.
a. Taungya System
- Forest trees are planted along with agricultural crops in early stages.
- Farmers grow food crops between tree rows.
Suitable for: Social forestry and reforestation.
Benefits: Gives food + trees, uses land properly.
Limitation: Needs cooperation from local farmers.
b. Coppice System
- Trees are cut from near the ground, and new shoots grow from stumps.
- Works for species like Shisham, Eucalyptus, and Mulberry.
Suitable for: Fuelwood forests or quick timber.
Benefits: Fast regeneration, low cost.
Limitation: Only works for coppicing species.
c. High Forest System
- Trees are grown from seeds or seedlings, not stumps.
- Forest is managed for quality timber.
Suitable for: Industrial plantations (like in Changa Manga, Chichawatni).
Benefits: Good timber quality, uniform age.
Limitation: Takes longer time to mature.
Comparison Table
| System | Type of Forest | Regeneration | Suitable Areas |
| Selection System | Natural | Natural | Northern Hilly Areas |
| Shelterwood | Natural | Natural | Moist Temperate Zones |
| Clear-Cutting | Natural/Manmade | Artificial | Fast-growing regions |
| Taungya | Manmade | Artificial | Agroforestry Areas |
| Coppice | Manmade | Natural | Fuelwood Plantations |
| High Forest System | Manmade | Artificial | Timber Plantations |
Recommendations
- In natural forests, Selection and Shelterwood systems are best for conservation and biodiversity.
- In manmade forests, Coppice and High Forest systems work well for fuelwood and timber needs.
- Taungya system should be promoted in rural areas to engage farmers in forestry.
- Govt should provide training to forest staff and locals about proper silvicultural methods.
Conclusion
Silvicultural systems help to manage forests in a planned and scientific way. Different systems are used depending on forest type, species, and goals. By applying the right system, we can get timber, fuel, and protect our environment at the same time. Sustainable forest management is key to a greener and safer future.
Question 7
Explain the advantages of different silvicultural operations needed at different growth stages of forests.
Introduction
Silvicultural operations are the practices done to grow, manage, and protect forests. These operations are not one-time; they are applied at different growth stages of the forest—from seed to mature tree. Every stage needs different care to ensure healthy growth and good timber production. These operations also help forests to resist pests, diseases, and harsh climate.
Main Growth Stages of Forests
Forests usually grow in the following stages:
- Regeneration Stage (Seed or planting stage)
- Seedling Stage (0–3 years)
- Sapling Stage (3–10 years)
- Pole Stage (10–20 years)
- Mature Stage (20+ years)
At each stage, different silvicultural operations are required.
Silvicultural Operations and Their Advantages
A. Site Preparation (Before Planting/Regeneration Stage)
- Includes clearing land, removing weeds, plowing, leveling, etc.
- Advantages:
- Better seed germination
- Reduced competition from weeds
- Easy planting and root growth
B. Sowing or Planting (Regeneration Stage)
- Seeds are sown or seedlings are planted in rows or pits.
- Advantages:
- Ensures proper spacing
- Good survival rate of trees
- Selection of desired species
C. Weeding (Seedling to Sapling Stage)
- Removal of unwanted plants and grasses around young trees.
- Advantages:
- Less competition for water and nutrients
- Healthy and fast growth of seedlings
- Protects from pest hiding places
D. Thinning (Sapling to Pole Stage)
- Cutting down some weaker or extra trees to reduce overcrowding.
- Advantages:
- More space and light for remaining trees
- Improves tree quality and shape
- Increases overall productivity
E. Pruning (Sapling to Pole Stage)
- Cutting of side branches and dead wood.
- Advantages:
- Straight and clean stem (better timber value)
- Reduces disease and pest attack
- Easier handling and processing of wood
F. Fertilizing and Soil Treatment (All stages)
- Use of compost, urea, or organic material to improve soil fertility.
- Advantages:
- Fast growth of trees
- Better resistance against climate stress
- Improved leaf and root development
G. Irrigation (Mostly Seedling and Sapling Stages)
- Supplying water in dry seasons or dry areas.
- Advantages:
- Higher survival of young trees
- Strong roots and steady growth
- Prevents drying or wilting
H. Protection Measures (All Stages)
- Includes fencing, firebreaks, pest control, and disease management.
- Advantages:
- Saves trees from grazing and cutting
- Reduces risk of fire and insect damage
- Ensures long-term forest survival
I. Logging or Harvesting (Mature Stage)
- Cutting of mature trees for timber or wood products.
- Advantages:
- Provides income and raw material
- Opens space for new regeneration
- Can be planned to reduce forest damage
Importance of Doing Operations at Right Time
- If operations are delayed or ignored, trees may become weak, crooked, or die.
- Early-stage care (like weeding and watering) is critical for survival.
- Mid-stage operations (like thinning and pruning) are important for quality.
- Final stage operations (like harvesting) must be planned to avoid over-cutting.
Examples from Pakistan
- In Changa Manga, regular thinning and pruning are done in Shisham and Eucalyptus plantations.
- In Hazara Division, selective thinning is done in natural Chir Pine forests.
- Social Forestry projects use weeding and watering in early stages to ensure community benefits.
Conclusion
Silvicultural operations are not just technical steps—they are the backbone of healthy forest management. From the first seed to the final harvest, every operation adds value to the forest. If done properly and at the right time, these operations can ensure sustainable timber, environmental protection, and economic benefits for the country.
Question 8
Desertification is a growing threat. Which climatic and edaphic factors accelerate it and how?
Introduction
Desertification means the degradation of land in dry and semi-dry areas, turning fertile land into desert. It reduces the land’s productivity and affects people, crops, livestock, and the whole environment. It is a growing threat in Pakistan, especially in areas like Tharparkar, Cholistan, and western Balochistan.
Both climatic and edaphic (soil-related) factors play a major role in making this problem worse.
Climatic Factors That Accelerate Desertification
a. Low Rainfall
- Dry areas receive less than 250–500 mm rainfall per year.
- Less water means less plant growth.
- Soil becomes dry, loose, and open to erosion.
Example: Thar Desert receives less than 200 mm/year.
b. Irregular or Erratic Rainfall
- Sudden heavy rains after long dry periods cause flash floods.
- These floods wash away topsoil, which is rich in nutrients.
c. High Temperature
- High heat increases evaporation of water from soil and plants.
- Soil becomes hard and cracked, unsuitable for crops.
- Also increases heat stress on plants and animals.
d. Droughts
- Long periods without rain cause soil moisture loss.
- Vegetation dies, and land becomes bare.
- Bare land is more exposed to wind and water erosion.
e. Strong Winds
- In dry regions, wind carries away loose sand and topsoil.
- This creates sand dunes and buries vegetation.
Example: In Cholistan, sand shifting is common due to strong winds.
Edaphic (Soil-Related) Factors That Accelerate Desertification
a. Low Organic Matter
- Soils in dry regions have very low organic content.
- Poor fertility leads to weak plant growth, leaving soil exposed.
b. Soil Salinity and Sodicity
- Overuse of irrigation water without drainage causes salt to rise to the surface.
- Salty soils cannot support crops or plants.
- This is common in canal areas of Sindh and Punjab.
c. Soil Erosion
- Topsoil is the most fertile layer, and erosion removes it.
- Without topsoil, plants cannot grow properly.
- Erosion is caused by wind, water, and poor land management.
d. Poor Soil Structure
- Compacted soils have poor water infiltration.
- Crust formation on top blocks seed germination.
- Such soils don’t support healthy root development.
e. Over-Cultivation and Overgrazing
- Continuous cropping without giving rest to soil removes nutrients.
- Overgrazing by livestock removes plant cover, leaving soil open.
Example: In Balochistan, overgrazing has caused large-scale land degradation.
Human Activities That Worsen Both Factors
- Deforestation: Cutting trees removes natural barriers against wind and erosion.
- Unplanned Irrigation: Leads to waterlogging and salinity.
- Urbanization: Expands into fertile lands and compacts soil.
- Poor Land Management: Farmers not using crop rotation or soil conservation methods.
Effects of Desertification
- Loss of crop productivity
- Food insecurity
- Migration of rural people
- Loss of biodiversity
- More frequent dust storms
- Lower groundwater levels
Solutions and Control Measures
Afforestation: Planting trees to protect soil
Windbreaks and Shelterbelts: Reduce wind speed and erosion
Water Harvesting: Collecting rainwater for dry periods
Soil Conservation Techniques: Terracing, contour plowing
Salinity Management: Use of gypsum, proper drainage
Awareness Programs: Teaching farmers better soil practices
Conclusion
Desertification is a serious environmental and agricultural threat. In Pakistan, both climatic and edaphic factors are speeding up this problem. If not controlled, it will turn more fertile land into wasteland. We need urgent steps at both government and community level to protect our land, water, and future generations.
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