Workshop on “Molecular techniques for breeding horticulture and agronomics crops”

World population will touch nine billion by 2050 which demands expedited efforts on the part of agricultural scientists to ensure food security, said University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan. He chaired the concluding session of worship titled “Molecular techniques for breeding horticulture and agronomics crops” arranged by Institute of Horticultural Sciences and Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization (ORIC), UAF at Video Conference Room. Dr Sumaira Riaz from UC Davis was the chief guest. IHS Director Prof Dr Aslam Pervez; ORIC Director Dr Rao Asif, Dr Jaffar Jaskani and Dr Ahmad Sattar also spoke on the occasion. University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan presents souvenir to Dr Sumaira Riaz from UC Davis The Vice Chancellor said that molecular techniques are the fast moving area on which agricultural experts in Pakistan should also concentrate. The country is blessed with four seasons, he said, adding that there is many potential in cultivating new crops rather than focusing only on traditional ones. He said that valuable researches in the field of agriculture are being produced. But, it is a real challenge to transfer the knowledge into goods and services that will help in increasing per acre production. Keeping in view, the UAF has expedited its outreach programme. Under the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) programme, famers of Pakistan and Afghanistan are being trained about the techniques to increase productively, he said, adding that UAF is also partner in the said USDA project. Dr Sumaira Riaz urged the scientists to pace up their research work. He also asked the students to play their due in the challenges of food security. Hardworking and motivation are the key to progress, she said adding that abundant opportunities are available that will open up new avenue of prosperity. Prof Dr Aslam Pervez said that it was the need of the hour to inform the farming community about the ways to increase productivity. It will bring prosperity and help in poverty alleviation. Prof Dr Rao Asif stressed the need to produce quality researches. Dr Jaffar Jaskani and Dr Ahmad Sattar briefed the audience about the work being done on mango, citrus, apple and other fruits.