CSS Past Paper 2022 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2)
CSS | Past Paper | Group 5 | 2022 | Part 2 | Descriptive
Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2022 Agriculture and Forestry Descriptive (Part 2).
Question 2
What is Integrated Plant Nutrient Management (IPNM)? How chemical fertilizers efficiency can be improved? How agro-industries waste (sugar, cotton & fruits) can be best utilized as plant nutrient?
Introduction
Integrated Plant Nutrient Management (IPNM) is a modern way to manage plant nutrients by combining different sources like chemical fertilizers, organic manures, biofertilizers, and crop residues. The aim is to improve soil fertility, crop productivity, and reduce environmental harm. IPNM is very important for sustainable agriculture.
What is Integrated Plant Nutrient Management (IPNM)?
IPNM means applying nutrients to crops using all possible nutrient sources in a balanced and efficient way. It focuses on:
- Maintaining or improving soil fertility.
- Giving proper nutrition to plants for better growth.
- Reducing dependence only on chemical fertilizers.
- Using eco-friendly and cost-effective methods.
Components of IPNM
- Chemical Fertilizers – Urea, DAP, etc. for quick nutrient supply.
- Organic Manures – FYM, compost, green manure to improve soil structure.
- Biofertilizers – Rhizobium, Azospirillum to fix nitrogen biologically.
- Crop Residues – Straw, husk, leaves which decompose and give nutrients.
- Agro-industrial Wastes – Waste from sugar, cotton, fruits etc. which also have nutrient value.
Benefits of IPNM
- Balanced nutrient supply.
- Reduces soil degradation.
- Maintains long-term productivity.
- Less cost for farmers.
- Environment friendly.
How Chemical Fertilizers Efficiency can be Improved?
In Pakistan, many farmers overuse or misuse fertilizers. This leads to wastage and low yield. To improve fertilizer efficiency:
i. Right Source:
- Use correct fertilizer according to soil and crop needs.
ii. Right Dose:
- Apply proper quantity based on soil testing and crop requirement.
iii. Right Time:
- Apply during the crop’s peak nutrient demand stage, e.g., before flowering.
iv. Right Method of Application:
- Use band placement instead of broadcasting.
- Fertilizer deep placement to avoid losses from evaporation.
v. Use of Slow Release Fertilizers:
- Coated urea or neem-coated fertilizers release nutrients slowly.
vi. Fertigation:
- Fertilizer application through irrigation water saves input and increases uptake.
vii. Use of Biofertilizers:
- Combining with Rhizobium, Azotobacter improves efficiency of chemical fertilizers.
viii. Soil Health Improvement:
- Healthy soils absorb fertilizers better. Use of organic matter helps.
Utilization of Agro-industries Waste as Plant Nutrient
Agro-industrial waste is a good nutrient source and reduces pollution if used properly. Some examples are:
i. Sugar Industry Waste:
- Pressmud: Rich in organic matter, phosphorus, and micronutrients.
- Molasses: Can be used in compost making.
- Spent wash: Contains potassium and other nutrients.
ii. Cotton Industry Waste:
- Cotton Seed Cake: After oil extraction, used as organic fertilizer.
- Cotton Stalks: Can be composted or used as mulch.
iii. Fruit Industry Waste:
- Fruit peels, pulp residues: Rich in potassium, calcium, and sugars.
- Used in composting and vermicomposting.
- Improves soil organic carbon and microbial activity.
Benefits of Using Agro-Industrial Waste
- Cheap and easily available.
- Reduces chemical fertilizer need.
- Increases soil organic matter.
- Waste recycling and environmental safety.
Conclusion
IPNM is a smart and balanced approach for plant nutrition. By using all nutrient sources properly, including agro-waste and fertilizers, we can achieve better crop yield, maintain soil health and save the environment. Fertilizer use must be improved with modern techniques and waste from industries should not be thrown away but used in farms.
Question 3
Describe present Cotton scenario, causes of low production during last five years and challenges ahead. How past glory of cotton production can be achieved?
Introduction
Cotton is called “white gold” in Pakistan. It is one of the main cash crops and backbone of the textile industry. Millions of people depend on it for jobs. But in the last few years, cotton production in Pakistan is going down badly. This is affecting farmers, industry, and exports too.
Present Scenario of Cotton in Pakistan
- Pakistan used to be 4th largest cotton producer in the world.
- But now, production has dropped sharply in last 5 years.
- In 2021-22, production was only around 7-8 million bales, much less than past years when it was 13-14 million bales.
- Area under cotton is also decreasing. Farmers are shifting to other crops like sugarcane, maize, or rice.
- Imports of cotton have increased because textile mills don’t get enough local cotton.
Causes of Low Production in Last Five Years
i. Pest Attacks:
- Whitefly and pink bollworm are causing huge damage.
- Many Bt cotton varieties are no longer effective against new pest strains.
ii. Poor Quality Seed:
- Lack of certified seeds and fake seed availability.
- Farmers often use saved seed, which has low germination and poor resistance.
iii. Water Shortage:
- Less water availability for irrigation, especially in Sindh and South Punjab.
iv. Climate Change:
- High temperature and unseasonal rains damage cotton at sensitive stages.
v. Fertilizer and Input Cost:
- Rising prices of urea, DAP, diesel, and pesticides increase production cost.
vi. Low Profit for Farmers:
- Farmers get less return than other crops, so they are discouraged to grow cotton.
vii. Mismanagement and Weak Policies:
- No strong cotton policy or farmer support programs.
- Lack of research and modern extension services.
Challenges Ahead
- Controlling new and resistant pests.
- Developing climate-resilient and high-yielding varieties.
- Ensuring availability of quality seed and inputs.
- Managing water resources efficiently.
- Improving farmer education and training.
- Reducing cost of production and ensuring better market price.
- Reviving public sector research institutes for cotton.
How Past Glory of Cotton Production Can Be Achieved?
To bring cotton back to its high level, we need serious steps:
i. Seed Development:
- Invest in research for better Bt and non-Bt seeds with pest and climate resistance.
ii. Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
- Train farmers in modern pest control, reduce blind pesticide use.
iii. Policy Support:
- Govt should give support price to cotton like wheat.
- Easy loan and subsidy for small farmers.
iv. Water Management:
- Promote drip irrigation and other water-saving methods.
v. Extension Services:
- Strengthen field-level training and help centers for farmers.
vi. Promote Local Cotton:
- Reduce imports by supporting ginners and mills to use local cotton.
vii. Crop Zoning:
- Ban sugarcane and rice in cotton zones to save water and land for cotton.
Conclusion
Cotton is very important for Pakistan’s economy and agriculture. Its downfall is a serious issue. If we want to revive the cotton sector, we must fix seed problems, control pests, and support farmers. With proper planning and support, Pakistan can again become a top cotton producing country.
Question 4
What factors influence seed germination? How seed viability is affected during storage? What is informal seed sector? Discuss advantages and disadvantages of informal seed sector.
Introduction
Seed is the most basic and important input in agriculture. Good quality seed means healthy plants and better yield. Germination and viability of seed depend on many factors. In Pakistan, both formal and informal seed sectors exist, but informal seed system is more common among small farmers.
Factors That Influence Seed Germination
Seed germination is the process in which a seed starts to grow into a new plant. For good germination, certain conditions are needed:
i. Moisture (Water):
- Seeds need water to activate enzymes and start metabolic processes.
- Too much or too little water can harm germination.
ii. Temperature:
- Each crop has a specific temperature range for germination.
- For example, wheat needs around 20–25°C while maize needs 25–30°C.
iii. Oxygen:
- Seeds need oxygen for respiration.
- Poor aeration in soil (like in waterlogged fields) stops germination.
iv. Light or Darkness:
- Some seeds need light to germinate (lettuce), while some need darkness.
v. Seed Dormancy:
- Some seeds don’t germinate immediately after harvest due to dormancy.
- Dormancy can be broken using treatments like chilling, scarification, etc.
vi. Seed Quality:
- Damaged, diseased, or immature seeds show poor germination.
- Proper seed treatment increases germination percentage.
How Seed Viability is Affected During Storage?
Seed viability means the seed is alive and can grow. Over time, seed loses its viability. Storage conditions matter a lot.
i. Temperature:
- High temperature reduces seed life.
- Seeds should be stored in cool places.
ii. Humidity:
- Moisture in air increases fungal attack and reduces seed life.
- Seeds should be kept dry.
iii. Storage Pests:
- Insects like weevils eat stored seeds and make them non-viable.
iv. Fungi and Moulds:
- Fungal growth on seeds due to moisture also kills the seed embryo.
v. Packaging Material:
- Bad quality bags or containers allow moisture and pests inside.
vi. Seed Type:
- Some seeds like onion, groundnut, soybean are short-lived and lose viability fast.
Tips for Better Storage
- Use airtight containers.
- Keep seeds dry and in low temperature.
- Use seed treatment before storing.
What is Informal Seed Sector?
The informal seed sector is the system in which farmers save, exchange, or sell seeds at local level without any proper certification or regulation.
Key Features
- Farmers use their own saved seed.
- Seeds are exchanged with neighbors or sold in local markets.
- No seed testing or certification involved.
- It is common in rural and small farming areas.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Informal Seed Sector
Advantages:
- Low Cost:
- Farmers don’t have to buy expensive certified seeds.
- Easy Availability:
- Seeds are easily available in villages or own storage.
- Local Adaptation:
- Seeds are already adapted to local climate and soil.
- Diversity:
- Helps in maintaining traditional and indigenous varieties.
- Farmer Control:
- Farmers are independent in seed decisions.
Disadvantages:
- Low Quality:
- Seeds may have low germination, low purity, and more diseases.
- No Certification:
- Quality assurance is missing.
- Limited Improvement:
- No new high-yield or hybrid varieties.
- Spread of Pests/Diseases:
- Saved seeds may carry pests or fungi to next crop.
- Less Productivity:
- Yields are generally lower compared to formal seed sector.
Conclusion
Seed germination and viability are key to crop success. Farmers should know the proper storage and seed handling techniques. The informal seed sector is useful for small farmers, but it needs support and improvement. Training and support programs can help improve seed quality even in informal systems.
Question 5
Write notes on:
a. Potential and issues of small dams constructed in mountainous and semimountainous areas of Pakistan
b. Advantages and disadvantages of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
a. Potential and Issues of Small Dams Constructed in Mountainous and Semimountainous Areas of Pakistan
Potential of Small Dams
Small dams play a big role in saving water and boosting agriculture, especially in dry and hilly areas of Pakistan like Potohar, KPK, and Balochistan. They store rainwater and help local communities.
i. Irrigation Support:
- These dams provide water to small farms where canal water doesn’t reach.
- It increases cropping intensity and yield.
ii. Groundwater Recharge:
- Stored water helps recharge underground water levels.
iii. Flood Control:
- Small dams reduce damage from flash floods in hilly areas.
iv. Drinking Water Supply:
- Many villages use dam water for daily needs.
v. Fisheries and Livestock:
- Dam water supports fish farming and gives water to animals.
vi. Employment and Rural Development:
- Dams help create jobs in construction, farming, and fishery.
Issues Faced by Small Dams
i. Siltation:
- Dams fill with silt and reduce water storage capacity fast.
ii. Poor Maintenance:
- After construction, many dams are not properly maintained.
iii. Lack of Community Involvement:
- Locals are often not trained or involved in water management.
iv. Financial Constraints:
- Limited funding affects regular cleaning and repair.
v. Evaporation Losses:
- In hot areas, water loss due to evaporation is high.
vi. Technical Faults:
- Some dams are poorly designed and break in heavy rains.
b. Advantages and Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
Advantages of GMOs
i. Higher Yield:
- GM crops like Bt cotton give better yield and reduce pest damage.
ii. Pest and Disease Resistance:
- GMOs can fight insects and diseases, reducing pesticide use.
iii. Drought and Salinity Tolerance:
- Some GM crops can grow in poor soil or low water areas.
iv. Less Chemical Use:
- Reduced need for insecticides and herbicides, saving cost and environment.
v. Nutritional Improvement:
- GMOs like Golden Rice have more vitamins to fight malnutrition.
vi. Longer Shelf Life:
- Some GM foods stay fresh for longer time, reducing food waste.
Disadvantages of GMOs
i. Health Concerns:
- Some people fear GM foods may cause allergies or unknown health effects.
ii. Environmental Risks:
- GM crops may cross-breed with wild plants, affecting biodiversity.
iii. Resistance Development:
- Pests and weeds may become resistant to GM traits over time.
iv. Seed Monopoly:
- Big companies control GM seeds, farmers must buy new seed every season.
v. Ethical and Religious Concerns:
- Some people reject GMOs on cultural, religious, or ethical reasons.
vi. Market Limitations:
- Some countries don’t import GMO products, affecting exports.
Conclusion
Small dams can bring a water revolution in hilly and dry areas if managed properly. On the other hand, GMOs offer good benefits for food security but need strong regulation and public awareness to avoid risks. Both topics are important for modern agriculture in Pakistan.
Question 6
Discuss objectives and basis of conventional forest classification in Pakistan. Describe the distribution of forests in Pakistan
Introduction
Forests are important for environment, economy, and people’s lives. In Pakistan, forests cover around 5% of total land, which is very low compared to international standards. For proper management and planning, forests are classified into different types based on location, climate, and vegetation.
Objectives of Conventional Forest Classification in Pakistan
The main goal of forest classification is to group forests based on their nature and environment so they can be managed better.
i. Scientific Management:
- Helps in planning for cutting, planting, and protection based on forest type.
ii. Conservation:
- Supports protecting endangered species and ecosystems.
iii. Better Policy Making:
- Helps government make policies according to the type and condition of forest.
iv. Sustainable Use:
- Ensures that forests are used in a way that they don’t get destroyed.
v. Research and Education:
- Provides clear data for students, researchers, and professionals.
Basis of Conventional Forest Classification
Forest classification in Pakistan is mainly based on Champion and Seth system (1965). It divides forests by:
i. Climate:
- Temperature, rainfall, and humidity decide the type of vegetation.
ii. Altitude and Geography:
- Height above sea level and landforms affect forest types.
iii. Soil Type:
- Soil fertility, moisture level, and texture play a big role.
iv. Vegetation Type:
- Dominant tree species help identify forest type.
v. Rainfall:
- Amount and pattern of rainfall is important in classification.
Distribution of Forests in Pakistan
Pakistan’s forests are unevenly spread and vary by province and region. Major forest types include:
i. Alpine Forests (Cold Desert and Dry Temperate)
- Found in high mountains like Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, Skardu.
- Trees: Juniper, Fir, Blue pine.
- Climate: Cold and dry.
ii. Sub-Tropical Pine Forests
- Located in Murree Hills, Swat, Dir, and parts of Azad Kashmir.
- Tree: Chir Pine.
- Used for timber and resin.
iii. Moist Temperate Forests
- Found in northern hilly areas with high rainfall.
- Trees: Deodar, Fir, Spruce.
- Rich biodiversity.
iv. Dry Sub-Tropical Broadleaf Forests
- Located in low hills of Punjab, KP and Balochistan.
- Trees: Olive, Phulai, Acacia.
- These forests are degraded due to overgrazing and wood cutting.
v. Riverine Forests
- Found along rivers like Indus in Sindh and Punjab.
- Trees: Shisham, Babul.
- Facing decline due to river flow changes and encroachment.
vi. Mangrove Forests
- Found in coastal areas of Sindh (mainly Karachi, Indus Delta).
- Trees: Avicennia marina.
- Important for fish breeding and coastal protection.
vii. Irrigated Plantations
- Artificial forests grown in canal-fed areas of Punjab like Changa Manga, Chichawatni.
- Trees: Eucalyptus, Shisham, Poplar.
viii. Scrub Forests
- Found in Potohar Plateau, Salt Range, and KP foothills.
- Trees: Acacia, Zizyphus.
- Used mainly for fuel wood and grazing.
Forest Distribution by Area
| Province/Region | Approx. % of Forest Area |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | 40–50% |
| Gilgit-Baltistan | 15–20% |
| Punjab | 10–15% |
| Sindh | 10–12% |
| Balochistan | 5–7% |
| Azad Kashmir | 5–6% |
Conclusion
Pakistan’s forest types are very diverse due to different climates and landscapes. By understanding their classification and distribution, we can plan better for conservation and sustainable use. It’s important to increase forest cover to meet global standards and protect environment for future generations.
Question 7
Describe role of agro-forestry in forage scarcity mitigation for livestock. How different range areas have played their roles in livestock raring?
Introduction
In Pakistan, livestock is a major part of agriculture. It provides milk, meat, wool, hides and also income for rural people. But a big problem is forage scarcity — animals don’t get enough green fodder. Agro-forestry and rangelands can help solve this issue if used properly.
Role of Agro-Forestry in Forage Scarcity Mitigation
Agro-forestry means growing trees and crops together on the same land, sometimes with livestock too. It helps in increasing food, fodder, and income at the same time.
How Agro-Forestry Helps with Fodder Shortage?
i. Fodder Trees:
- Many trees used in agro-forestry like Leucaena, Ipil-ipil, Sesbania, Acacia provide green fodder for animals, especially in dry seasons.
ii. Shade for Forage Crops:
- Some fodder crops like Berseem and Lucerne grow better under partial shade of trees.
iii. Land Utilization:
- Wastelands or less fertile land can be used for agro-forestry to grow fodder trees.
iv. Reduces Pressure on Natural Forests:
- By growing fodder on farms, pressure on forests for animal grazing reduces.
v. Income for Farmers:
- Farmers earn from wood and fruits, while still feeding their animals.
vi. Soil Improvement:
- Agro-forestry improves soil fertility, which increases fodder crop yield.
Role of Range Areas in Livestock Rearing
Rangelands (or grazing lands) are natural lands covered with grasses, bushes, and trees where animals graze. In Pakistan, rangelands cover around 60% of total land area, especially in Balochistan, Sindh, KP, and parts of Punjab.
Contribution of Range Areas
i. Natural Grazing Source:
- Ranges provide free grazing to sheep, goats, cattle, and camels.
ii. Support to Nomadic and Pastoral Communities:
- Tribes in Balochistan and Cholistan depend fully on rangelands for livestock grazing.
iii. Local Forage Species:
- Grasses like Cenchrus, Lasiurus, Panicum, and Desmostachya are found in ranges.
- Shrubs like Haloxylon, Atriplex are used in dry areas.
iv. Seasonal Fodder:
- Rangelands support animals during dry seasons when crops are not available.
Challenges Faced by Rangelands
i. Overgrazing:
- Too many animals graze the land without giving it time to recover.
ii. Deforestation and Bush Cutting:
- Trees and shrubs are cut for fuelwood, reducing fodder plants.
iii. Soil Erosion:
- Continuous grazing leads to loss of grass cover and soil erosion.
iv. Climate Change:
- Less rainfall and droughts reduce range productivity.
v. Lack of Range Management:
- No proper grazing plans, fencing, or reseeding in most areas.
How to Improve Range Areas for Livestock?
- Controlled Grazing:
- Rotational grazing helps in regrowth of grasses.
- Re-seeding and Plantation:
- Grow native fodder grasses and shrubs.
- Water Points Development:
- Build ponds or small dams to provide water to animals.
- Training for Farmers:
- Educate local people on range management and animal health.
- Range Policy Implementation:
- Government should make and apply strong policies to protect rangelands.
Conclusion
Agro-forestry and range areas are very important to support livestock in Pakistan. With growing animal population, pressure on fodder is increasing. So, promoting fodder trees, managing rangelands properly, and training farmers can help solve the fodder shortage and improve livestock production in the country.
Question 8
Write notes on:
a. Principles of forestry
b. Silvicultural Systems
a. Principles of Forestry
Introduction
Forestry is the science and art of managing forests in a way that benefits both humans and nature. It includes planting, protection, and harvesting of trees. The basic principles of forestry help guide foresters to manage forest resources wisely and sustainably.
Main Principles of Forestry
1. Sustainability:
- Forests should be managed so that future generations can also benefit.
- Don’t cut more trees than what naturally grow back.
2. Conservation of Biodiversity:
- Forestry should protect wildlife, rare plants, and forest ecosystems.
- Don’t damage natural habitats.
3. Multiple Use:
- Forests are not only for timber; they also provide fruits, herbs, fuelwood, grazing, and tourism.
4. Forest Protection:
- Forests must be protected from fire, illegal cutting, pests, and diseases.
5. Scientific Planning:
- Use data like forest type, age class, and growth rate for proper planning.
6. People Participation:
- Involve local communities in forest management.
- Social forestry encourages villagers to protect and grow forests.
7. Economic Benefit:
- Forest products should be harvested in a way that gives income but does not destroy the forest.
8. Climate Control:
- Forests help reduce global warming and maintain water cycle.
b. Silvicultural Systems
Introduction
Silviculture is the science of growing and managing forest crops. A silvicultural system is a method of harvesting and regenerating forests. It depends on forest type, species, and goals (like timber, fuelwood, etc.).
Main Types of Silvicultural Systems
1. Clear-Cutting System:
- All trees are cut down in one go from a specific area.
- New trees are planted or naturally regenerate.
- Used in fast-growing species like Eucalyptus.
Pros: Simple and quick.
Cons: Can harm soil and biodiversity.
2. Shelterwood System
- Trees are removed in steps, leaving some mature trees to provide shade and seeds.
- Good for species that grow better in partial shade.
Pros: Natural regeneration and better soil cover.
Cons: Needs more time and planning.
3. Selection System
- Only a few mature trees are cut at a time, on a regular basis.
- Forest always remains covered with trees.
Pros: Continuous forest cover and less impact.
Cons: Hard to manage and higher cost.
4. Coppice System
- Trees are cut close to ground, and new shoots grow from stumps.
- Suitable for species like Shisham, Mulberry.
Pros: Fast regrowth and cheap.
Cons: Not suitable for all species.
5. Taungya System
- Farmers grow crops between young trees.
- After some years, trees take over.
Pros: Combines forestry with agriculture.
Cons: Needs monitoring to avoid misuse.
Conclusion
Principles of forestry help us to protect and use forests wisely. Silvicultural systems are important tools that foresters use to grow, cut, and renew forests in a planned way. Choosing the right system depends on forest type, climate, and objectives.
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