UAF Scientists find 10 new mango varieties (New seeds will help increase production and fight diseases)

As one of the major fruit exporters in the northern hemisphere and a nation with some of the longest distances to reach the world's main markets, it would only make sense that Pakistan seeks fresh ways of keeping mangoes in top shape. The scientists analyzed 471 germplasms of mango from four different areas of the country including AJK and selected 10 for plantation This is exactly what has taken place at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) where scientists have unveiled lo new domestic mango varieties to increase production, fight diseases and gain a strong foothold in the international market. It was revealed on Wednesday at the Punjab Agricultural Research Board's (PARB) concluding seminar on iso mango projects titled 'Characterization of native and potential mango varieties in relation to Ceratocystics manginecans and other economic traits', arranged by the university. UAF Vice Chancellor and Project Manager Professor Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan said the scientists analyzed 471 germplasms of mangoes from four different areas of the country including AJK and selected lo for plantation. "The varieties have high potential and these will be commercialized so that the country can earn heavy foreign exchange," he said, adding the country was fortunate to have such rich mango germplasms. While comparing the country to others, he said the United States has drawn up a comprehensive plan to double production of all major grains. "We have to develop the mechanism in order to meet the demand of a growing population.” It was a matter of grave concern that 40% of Pakistani children were suffering from malnutrition, he said and urged scientists, educators and policymakers to devise a mechanism to tackle the challenge. Dr Louis Ferguson of the University of California, Davis said they were launching four major mango projects in collaboration with the UAF aimed at reducing postharvest losses, diversified cultivation and developing value-added products including mango leather and edible mango seed oil. "Pakistan is the fourth largest mango producing country in the globe and by adopting international standards, it can earn heavy foreign exchange, "she said. Punjab Director General Research Dr Abid Mahmood said they had launched a project called Controlled Atmosphere Technology in an effort to meet international standards. He suggested that the mangoes that are less sweet should be exported to countries where people like the fruit having mild taste. Punjab Agricultural Meat Company Chairman Mumtaz A Khan Manais said mango plantations were facing many threats like fruit fly attack and sudden death. He urged the scientists to play their role in this regard and suggested that the UAF should strengthen the disease-free mango nursery mechanism. He pointed out that India was recovering edible oil worth RS10-12 billion from mango seeds whereas Pakistan was importing edible oil worth $3 billion per annum. Associate Professor Dr Ahmad Satar said the project was designed to characterize, evaluate and conserve generic resources not only for its intrinsic worth but also to increase the varieties for exports. Media Coverage Dawn Newspaper The News The Nation The Tribune Business Recorder