Pakistan realizes: the challenge of competition

摘要

The downfall in cotton production Started in the 1992-93 season, when cotton leaf curl virus Spread on all commercial varieties in the Faisalabad and Multan divisions, the most susceptible being S-12. In 1994-95, the cotton leaf curl virus also gripped the Dera Ghazi Khan and Bahawalpur divisions. The virus not only reduced the yield per acre, but also affected fiber quality. This had a disastrous effect on the economy. In spite of an increase in the past five years in area, pesticide and fertilizer use, cotton production in Pakistan remains at 15 rounds (200 kg lint) per acre, whereas in Punjab, the average yield is 13 rounds (173 kg lint). In the 1991-92 season, the average yield in Punjab was 26 rounds (350 kg lint) per acre. Unfortunately, Pakistani researchers do not pay any heed to lint quality and spinnability. Their breeding program is restricted only to virus resistance and variety introduction each year. Because of this, the Seed Mafia was formed in Punjab. The Maltan cotton institute quickly released eight cotton varieties in seven years. Not a single variety remains in a large area for more than two years.