Seminar on “Challenges on International Entomology”

Kinnow was actually originated at California (USA) but succeeded to produce maximum yield potential at Central Punjab (Pakistan) with aroma, color & unique taste, and saved Pakistani’s from Blindness due to having lot of Vitamins. This was stated by Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan Vice Chancellor University of Agriculture, Faisalabad while addressing one day seminar on “Challenges in International Entomology” as a Chief Guest on Thursday morning in New Senate Hall. He said that unfortunately this wonderful fruit had been suffering from Citrus Psyllid and Greening Disease which was causing death a fresh tree within span of 5-8 years. He called for International collaboration in order to prevent Citrus from sudden death. Dr. Khan urged the scientists to raise with innovative research solutions to put impact on social fabric. He was of the view that scientists should think beyond impact factor which of course is their personnel capacity enhancement initiative. Vice Chancellor UAF lauded the efforts of Dr. Mark. S. Hoddle scientist from University of California (Riverside) for conducting research on Asian Citrus Psyllid and Red Palm Weevil (RPW). American Scientist Dr. Mark. S. Hoddle in his special lecture on “Challenges of International Plant Protection” said that California (USA) has 70% similar climatic nature like Punjab Pakistan that is why he had initiated International research on both hazardous insects. He said that Citrus Psyllid destroying California Citrus Orchards had similar nature and gene persisted in Pakistan. He maintained that RPW was causing destruction to Date Palm Orchards in South East Asia (SEA), Middle East, South Africa & other regions of the Globe. Dr. Hoddle stressed the need for Biological control methodology for controlling both pests. He added that transgenic crops and traditional breeding transformations had paved way to protect plants with effective and solid outcome. He hoped that they could have solutions to control the both pests within short span of time. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Jalal Arif, Chairman Department of Entomology while highlighting the role of his Department said that domestic pest control solution, grain storage management and plant diagnostic advisory services were being extended to the community and a mobile health clinic had been established to extend services at the door step of farmer community. He maintained that Cyber Extension services would also be initiated very soon. A large number of faculty members and students attend the lecture.