Third National Postgraduate Entomology Research Conference

FAISALABAD June 17: With changing climate pattern and excessive use of pesticides in agriculture, the insects’ resistance has intensified, posing serious threats to food security. For which, entomologists will have to enhance their role in coping with the situation at the national level. It was stated by the speakers while addressing at Third National Postgraduate Entomology Research Conference organized by Department of Entomology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) in collaboration with Pakistan Entomological Society and Young Entomologist Society. Addressing the participants, UAF Vice Chancellor Dr Zulfiqar Ali said that with the passage of time, new diseases were breaking out, inflicting the loss of millions of rupees to the agriculture sector. He urged entomologists to come up with doable solutions with tangible research work. He added farmers should be sensitized about rational usage of pesticides and other agricultural inputs that will not only increase the production but also bring economic stability. Chairman Dept of Entomology Dr Waseem Akram said that the sector was in the grip of the different challenges that needs attention of the experts, scientists and other stakeholders He added that they were running different research projects on dengue, Integrated Pest Management, stored grain pest control, insects’ biodiversity and others . He also shared department’s contributions in dengue control and advisory services for farming communities, along with the successful eradication campaigns against fruit fly and mango mealybug. Dr Muhammad Ahsan Khan said that the Department of Entomology played a vital role in ensuring sustainable agriculture through innovative strategies. He said that the department was actively contributing to food security by addressing pest-related challenges and enhancing crop protection. Head of R&D and Regulatory Affairs Dr Amir Bashir discussed the current challenges in pest management with a focus on application techniques. He emphasized the need for precise and efficient pesticide application to minimize environmental impact and maximize effectiveness. CABI-Pakistan, Project Manager Dr Kazim Ali highlighted the importance of digitalizing pest surveillance and reporting systems in Pakistan. He said that modern digital tools can ensure real-time monitoring and quicker response to pest outbreaks. Dr Rashad Rasul also said that the Insect pest control has gained significance and called for finding out the most suitable pest control strategies. Dr Muhammad Sagher stressed upon the need to Integrated Management of Insect Pests Stored Products. He said that such advancements will enhance better crop protection strategies across the country. Faisal Bashir from Syngenta Pakistan, Ghazanfar Ali Market Head Evyol Group, Zia Ullah and other also spoke on the occasion.