Exchange and Development of Fodder Germplasm Resistant to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses

Objectives

• Enrichment of genetic diversity by acquisition of local and exotic fodder germplasm to strengthen the fodder breeding program.
• Screening and selection of fodder germplasm against biotic and abiotic stresses.

Implementation Design

Sponsoring

• Government of the Punjab, Agriculture Department

Execution

• Chief Scientist Agriculture (Research), AARI, Faisalabad

Civil Works

• Construction of new office building, water channel and mesh fencing at farm area of ARS, Bahawalpur.
• Construction of overhead water reservoir at FRI, Sargodha.

Overall targets of project

• Acquisition of 850 accessions of fodder crops i.e. berseem, alfalfa, oats, sorghum, pearl millet, maize, guar and grasses (Rye grass & Rhode grass) from local and exotic sources.
• Screening of 850 accessions of fodder germplasm against biotic and abiotic stresses.
• Evaluation and characterization of 850 accessions fodders crops on the basis of fodder yielding and quality parameters.
• Recruitment of staff.
• Construction of office building
• Establishment of Fodder Quality Testing Laboratory.
• Procurement of Farm Machinery and Lab. Equipments.

Types and No of Beneficiaries

• Farmers
• R&D Organizations and all other stakeholders related to livestock industry

Expected impact after completion of the project

• There will be approximately 2-3% increase in area of fodder crops and 5% increase in fodder yield per unit area after 6-8 years of the completion of the project which will ultimately boost the employment generation.
• Positive impact on national economy by reducing import bill of fodder seed.
• Availability of high fodder yielding varieties with better nutritional quality will boost the dairy and livestock industry of the country