| Sugarcane is a main cash crop of Pakistan grown extensively in varying agro-climatic conditions. It confers a sound economic base to the sugar industry and also supports paper and chipboard manufacturing industry. The rapid human population growth in the country has increased the sugar demand. The present position of low yield and recovery in sugarcane stipulates the breeders to take realistic innovative attempts in varietal development programs to evaluate and release new sugarcane of high cane and sugar yield potential to fulfill the sugar demand in the country. Limited work regarding appraisal of variation in lately evolved sugarcane genotypes for morphological and quality-related characters has been reported in Pakistan. Evaluation of sugarcane genotypes for desired attributes acceptable to growers and sugar mills is necessary before releasing them as commercial varieties. The study was undertaken to evaluate variations in sugarcane genotypes employing four morphological (Cane thickness, cane height, millable stalks, and cane yield) and four quality-related (Brix, pol, purity, and commercial cane sugar percentage) traits. Experiments were conducted in plant crop for two consecutive years 2018-19 and 2019-20 during the autumn cropping season at Makli farm of PARC-National Sugar and Tropical Horticulture Research Institute (NSTHRI), Thatta, Pakistan. A total of four sugarcane genotypes i.e., YtTh-1701, YtTh-1705, YtTh-1707, and YtTh-1730 against standard variety Thatta-10 as check were tested. The genotypes were developed from the exotic fuzz of China. The trials were conducted under RCBD with three replications. The ANOVA exhibited significant (p≤0.05) differences among the genotypes for cane thickness, cane height, number of millable canes, and cane yield, whereas, non-significant (p≥0.05) variations were observed for brix%, pol%, purity% and commercial cane sugar percentage (CCS%). The mean data showed a maximum cane yield of 150.84 t ha-1 for YtTh-1705, followed by YtTh-1707 (145.42 t ha -1 ) and YtTh-1701 (142.29 t ha -1 ). Whereas, the minimum yield of 104 t ha -1 was recorded in YtTh-1730 against the check variety (137.09 t ha -1 ). Similarly, the maximum CCS of 12.08% was displayed by YtTh-1705, followed by check variety Thatta-10 with CCS of 11.73%. Whereas, the CCS% in other sugarcane genotypes was low as compared to check variety. Among the inspected sugarcane genotypes YtTh-1705 was found promising due to highly improved performance for quantitative and qualitative parameters. Therefore, can be included in the gene pool for further varietal development studies.

| Pakistan had to devour huge money on the import of edible oil. Aphids are the most notorious insect pests of Brassica crops in Pakistan and throughout the world as well. Host plant resistance is one of the most useful tools for the management of aphids in Brassica crop. This trial was executed at the farm of Regional Agricultural Research Institute, Bahawalpur to report the impact of aphid damage on yield and yield parameters on Brassica juncea . Five varieties/strains i.e. BRJ-9070, BRJ-9072, BRJ-1004, BRJ-1104 and KP Raya were grown in two sets with Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and there were three replications. No pesticides used on untreated block and natural populations of aphids were allowed to develop to estimate losses while and aphid population was recorded every 10 days intervals, while the treated blocks were kept free from aphids by the use of carbosulfan @ 400 ml/acre. At crop maturity, crop parameters like plant height (cm), number of silique per plant, yield loss in unsprayed blocks was compared to the yield of pesticide sprayed blocks. The yield components and yield in the insecticide free plots were much lower than that of insecticide sprayed plots which were kept aphid free. Maximum percentage reduction (14%) in plant height was observed on BRJ-9072, the silique per plant loss percentage was maximum on KP-raya (36.97%), whereas maximum percentage loss of yield per hectare (70.77%) was observed on BRJ-1104. Application of insecticide would still be required for the control of aphids as the current varieties lack complete or sufficient resistance against them.

| Cotton provides a living for 25 million Pakistanis and a major raw material for textile sector which accounts for 75 % of the fiber mix in textile industry products. Fiber yield and quality are very crucial parameters for a cotton breeding program. Five varieties namely FH-414, FH-415, FH-490, FH-492, and FH-ANMOL were used as lines and crossed with three testers namely NIAB- SANAM, CIM-602, and EYE-111 during the year 2019-20. Data was recorded for plant height (PH), number of monopodial branches (MB), number of sympodial branches (SB), number of bolls/plant (BP), boll weight (BW), ginning out turn (GOT), fiber fineness (FF), fiber length (FL), fiber strength (FS) and seed cotton yield (SCY). FH-414 proved to have very good GCA for BW and FL. FH-415 showed good GCA for FL and monopodial branches. Similarly, FH-490 for GOT and FF, FH-492 for SB, BW, BP and SCY. FH-ANMOL proved best combiner for, SB, BP, and SCY. CIM-602 was good combiner for BP, SB, BW, GOT, FS and SCY. EYE-111 found to be a good combiner for BP, GOT, and FF. The hybrid FH-415 × CIM-602 showed good SCA for MB and FH-ANMOL × EYE-111 for SB. For bolls/plant (BP) FH-492 × EYE-111, for boll weight (BW) FH-ANMOL × EYE-111, for GOT FH-415 × EYE-111, for fiber fineness (FF) FH-414 × EYE-111, for fiber length (FL) FH-92 × NIAB-SANAM, for fiber strength (FS) FH-414 × CIM-602 and for seed cotton yield (SCY) FH-492 × EYE-111 proved to be very good hybrid. These results indicated that these lines and testers have desired variability to exploit in the traits which were investigated.

| Pakistan have an excellent environment for fruit production. Climatic conditions and different altitude level support production of excellent quality fruits in coastline, tropical, subtropical and temperate regions. Pakistan is one of the top fruits producing country globally. Pakistan ranks 4 th in Mango (1.880M Tones), 6 th in Guava (2.4 M Tones), Dates (0.72 M Tones) and Citrus (2.1 M Tones) production around the globe. Since the year of 1969 Pakistan builds the infrastructure for agricultural development due to that; significant increase in production were observed during second, third and fourth development plan. Small land holdings, poor quality/low quantity of inputs and lack of crop improvement programs with respect to the disease, lack of disease and problem oriented research in major fruits such as Guava, Grapes and Banana. Addressing these challenges of fruit production industry can further improve yield and quality of fruits local fruits. Secondly the nurseries stocks of fruit plants should be certified, the small land holders should be supported by the government incentives for specific fruit production. Research according to the modern steps regarding plant protection measures, introduction of exotic varieties and use of Biotechnological tools for crop improvement should be adopted for better yield and production.

| Current experiment was performed in 2019 at Arid Zone Research Center, Dera Ismail Khan, KP, to study Mungbean ( Vigna radiata L.) flushes and their contribution towards the final yield. Among the goals were the quantification of mungbean flowering flushes to final yield, identification of short duration variety, to recognize varieties suitable for water-deficient areas, and varieties suitable for cotton crop intercropping before reaching their maximum canopy level. The analysis was carried out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications of split plot arrangement; varieties (NM-2011, Inqelab Mung, Dera Mung, and NM-98) were allocated in the main plot and sub-plots were held at various flowering flushes. The analyzed data revealed that the percentage of pods plant -1 , weight pod -1 , 1000 grain weight, grain yield, and harvest index were significantly affected by different varieties, and their interaction with the harvest at various flowering flushes. Inqelab Mung give higher yield compared to other varieties by producing 26 and 37 percent (63 percent) of its total yield in the 1 st and 2 nd flushes, respectively, with maturity for both flushes in around 63 days. In addition, its yield was higher than NM-2011, Dera Mung, and NM-98 by 21 %, 51 %, and 40 %, respectively. Cultivar Inqelab Mung may be recommended for planting in rain-fed conditions where the supply of water for the second and third irrigation is uncertain for farmers. In addition, through adding nitrogen via nodulation, it can also be intercropped with cotton as it can give fair yield without presenting any competition with cotton crop.

| Soil mites are considered as edaphic living organisms because these are responsible in maintaining the soil fertility through their decomposition and nutrient renewal activities. perimental statistics was applied to estimate the variety of soil mite diversity, seasonal variation and influence of intercropping within mango orchards through diversity index. A total of 1898 soil inhabiting mite sample slides were prepared from soil collected samples and after microscopic observation of slide specimen, 08 different families were recognized as Laelapidae, Pachylaelapidae, Ameroseiidae, Macrochelidae, Parasitidae, Phytoseiidae, Uropodidae, and Bdellidae. Macrochelidae and Parasitidae were the most prevalent familities while Pachylaelapidae and Bdellidae were recorded in the lowest numbers. The abundance of soil-inhabiting mites with respect to different locations in various months revealed that maximum abundance of mite families were recorded from Kotla Gurmani (38.5) followed by Kot Chutta (37.0) during October and minimum abundance was recorded during September from Mana Ahmadani (14.8). The maximum richness was recorded from mango orchards during September from Basti Hala (S=6.58) whereas richness remained statistically at par during October and February. The pearson correlation analysis demonstrated that most mite families had a negative correlation with morning and evening relative humidity while the positive correlation with maximum and minimum temperature. The results showed higher Shannon diversity index was observed in Mana Ahmadani during October and February (2.04 and 2.03, respectively) whereas the least value was observed in Basti Halla during February (1.60). Finally it could be concluded that farmers should consider conservation activities of mite fauna through intercropping to enhance the soil fertility thereby fruit production.

| Yellow moericke and sticky traps are important tools of integrated pest management (IPM), which act as indicators of population trends and fluctuation of flying insects. These traps were evaluated at different growth stages of wheat (seedling, tillering and dough stage) and trap height (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 meter) on the basis of mean aphid collection and species richness. Results indicated that population appeared in the standard week (SW) 52 of 1 st year to SW 18 of 2 nd year in both traps. Population peaks in the yellow moericke traps (YMT) and sticky trap (YST) were found during SW 08-14 and SW 10-14, respectively. The YMTs were 50 % more effective due to their higher attraction and killing rate of aphids as compared to the YSTs. The efficiency of attraction depends upon the size, shape, and height of trap, as well as the abiotic factors affecting them. To achieve ideal trap efficacy their height should be adjusted according to the crop growth stage. It is very important to keep traps just above the crop canopy. Traps at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 meter heights were more effective at seedling, tillering and dough stages, respectively. The population in the traps was correlated with the average temperature (⁰ С ) and humidity (%). Temperature had positive and significant correlation with population captured in the traps while humidity had negative and non-significant correlation with per unit population attraction. There was no significant difference of correlation between the traps attraction and years. Temperature and humidity had 47 and 0.9, 53 and 13 % impact on per unit population change in the YMT during 2019 and 2020, respectively. While in YST temperature and humidity had 55 and 0.7, 83 and 5 % impact on per unit population change during 2019 and 2020, respectively. These traps were installed in the wheat field where it attracted 14 species of aphid. Two new species Aphis nerii and Aphis fabae were reported in the agro ecological zone of Bhakkar having active periods SW 18-22 and SW 03-07, respectively. Yellow moericke traps are highly recommended to use as indicator as well as control tool of all important aphid species of wheat crop.

| Iron (Fe), being an essential micronutrient, is necessary for human health and to maintain the integrity and development of the plant. In Fe-limiting conditions, plants and plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial (PGPR) have a siderophore production mechanism. Inoculation with seed soaking of such siderophore-producing bacteria can be a cost-effective biofortification technique. The current study includes the collection of rhizobacterial isolates from wheat, maize, sorghum, millet, and maize rhizosphere soil of Rawalpindi and Sargodha divisions. The screening of bacterial isolates for siderophore production through CAS-shuttle assay (quantitative) and CAS-agar (qualitative) was done. Isolates were further characterized for Fe and phosphorus solubilization, indole acidic acid (IAA) equivalents, and organic acid production. The growth chamber and field study was planned to evaluate the effectiveness of these isolates on the growth and yield parameters of wheat. Total bacterial isolates were 50, out of which 15 isolates were found significantly positive for the production of siderophore and solubilizing of nutrients. The (SPS10) produced a comparatively high percentage of 46.2 % siderophore units, as shown by results between positive isolates. Out of 15 positive, 7 isolates significantly improved root/shoot growth over control in the growth chamber study. Inoculation with siderophore-producing bacteria showed a significant increase in plant height, grain yield, spike length, grain weight, no. of tillers plant -1 , and wheat quality in a field trial. The results from the current study proposed that in the plant, rhizobacteria can also play a beneficial role in nutrient translocation to plants efficiently and nutrients uptake from the soil insoluble form.

| Carrot and fennel seeds are considered rich sources of antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and β -carotene. The study aimed at formulating functional candies fortified with fennel seed extract and carrot juice. The candies can be used to improve the nutritive quality of confectionary products that could be healthy options for all age groups, particularly children. Fennel seed extract having the highest flavonoids and antioxidant capacity was selected to blend with carrot juice for hard candy formulation. Five different concentrations of fennel extract and carrot juice were added for the formulation of hard candy containing 30% (w/w) sugar, 30% (w/w) corn syrup, 0-40% (w/w) fennel seed extract, and 0 to 40% (w/w) carrot juice. The results showed the highest content of flavonoids in 40% (w/w) carrot juice formulation and the mixture of candies containing 10% (w/w) carrot juice and 30% (w/w) fennel extract, while the highest antioxidant activity was observed in candies containing 30% (w/w) carrot juice and 10% (w/w) fennel extract. The formulated candies showed a good sensory profile and can be utilized as a potential source of functional candies for improving the nutritional profile of children.

| Sorghumis the source of staple food, for human as well as feedor livestock in arid and semi-arid tropical zones of the world; now it is necessary to understand and utilizing the genetic diversity of sorghum hybrids for better crop production. In this study, crossing and selfing was done in parental lines of sorghum hybrids; such as A, B and R line system out of which 14 hybrids were finalized based on its morphological traits and statistically interpreted. Its genetic diversity is most important for exploitation of the genetic resources to develop promising hybrids. The objectives of such experimental study were to assess the best performing hybrids; on the basis of genetic diversity by applying different statistical techniques. Total 14 sorghum hybrids including standard Check, were used and data was collected on morphological traits. Cluster analysis, based on morphological traits revealed five major groups. Maximum cluster distance was observed in group I and V, while minimum cluster distance was observed in group IV and V. Highest emergence (33.7 m -2 ) was noticed for ICSA220XICSR90, highest leaves per plant (11.68) were reported of hybrid combination ICSA220XICSR90, maximum leaf to stem ratios (0.02) was recorded for hybrid combinations ICSA233XICSR90, high stem weight (327g) was recorded for hybrid combination ICSA216XICSR-1, maximum days to 50% flowering (77) was recorded for hybrid combination ICSA88019XICSR93012,excellentcrop stand depicted by hybrid combinationICSA220XICSR55, maximum panicle length (25.23cm) was recorded for hybrids combinations ICSA254XICSR112, highest leaf area index (2.0) were observed for hybrid combination ICSA88019XICSR90, highest PH (230.0 cm) observed of hybrid combinations ICSA216XICSR-1, maximum total grain weight panicle -1 (32.48 g) was recorded for ICSA220XICSR90, highest Harvest index (19.9) was observed for ICSA239XICSR102, maximum leaf weight (134.7g) was estimated for ICSA220XICSR55 . These were the genotypes of cytoplasm male sterility of sorghum hybrids which were selected on the basis of phenotypic data interpret by statistical analysis. Thus in the present investigation morphological traits were able to indicate the existence of a vast genetic diversity among the sorghum hybrids used providing scope for further genetic improvement in the breeding program.

| Crops are prone to being attacked by various insect pests resulting in huge crop yield losses. Maize ( Zea mays L.) the utmost yielding cereal crop worldwideis attacked by several insects, Chilopartellus (S) is the devastating one. The current study was conducted to probe the toxic effects of Chlorpyriphos 40 [email protected]/acre, Padan 3% G (Cartaphydorchloride) @ 9 kg/acre, Carbofuran 3% [email protected]/acre, Monomehypo 5% [email protected]/acreand Fipronil 0.3% [email protected]/acre against Chilopartellus (S.). Recommended dose rates of all the insecticides were applied. Results of mean percentcropinfestation showed that the highest infestation (40.51 %) was observed in the control plot while the lowermost (5.23 %) was recorded in Chlorpyriphos 40% EC treated plot, being the most effective among all. In the case of mean reduction data over control, the highest reduction in plant infestation (96.08%) and no of dead hearts (93.65%) was noticed inthecase of Chlorpyriphos 40% EC while the lowermost infestation reduction i.e. 55.12% was noted in case of Fipronil 0.3% G treated plots. Results of mean infestation values of C. partellus depicted that maximum mean infestation was 72.11% and 59.11%was noted in control during the peak population months, August and September. Results of population dynamics with abiotic conditions revealed that highest population i.e. 17.10% recorded at 42.1 ºC at 67.1 % relative humidity. Overall results concluded that the population of the C. partellus can be effectively controlled by the integration of Chlorpyriphos 40% EC into the Integrated Pest Management program.

| This study was conducted to evaluate the influence of ionizing irradiation supplement diet with replacement of antibiotics in poultry at the level of 5KGy (1Gy= 1 joule/kg). In our study various parameters were analyzed including feed intake, FCR, dressing percentage, weight gain, mortality percentage, weight of goblet and TFT thyroid function test were performed. In this experiment total 9 hundred broiler chicks were purchased from local market and randomly divided into two groups 1 control and 1 irradiated. These groups were further distributed in two more replications with 50 birds per replication using the random treatment design. The findings our study showed that there was no significant influence of feed intake was recorded with irradiation. The results for feed intake of total chick was observed 2652.33±59.45 and 2625.78±16.31g was observed for control and irradiated group, respectively. The results for weight gain was observed significantly higher (P≥0.05) in 1 st and 2 nd week of study in control group, while the results for weight gain was observed significantly higher in (P≥0.05) irradiated group as compared with control group during the 3 rd and 4 th week of experiment. The results for overall weight gain for each broiler was recorded significantly higher (P≥0.05) in irradiated group as compared with control group 1349.00±12.59 and 1286.68±21.08g, respectively. In this study the results for feed conversion ratio was observed higher in irradiated group as compared with control group 1.95±0.02 and 2.06±0.05g, respectively. Whereas the overall results for feed conversion ratio was recorded significantly lower (P≥0.05) in irradiated group as compared with control group. The results for feed conversion ratio was observed 5.33% reduced in irradiated group as compared with control one. There was no significant difference was observed in 1 st , 2 nd , 3 rd and 4 th week of study. There was no significant difference was recorded for the results of dressing % in control and irradiated group. The findings for mortality % was observed significantly higher in (P≥0.05) in control group as compared with the irradiated group. It has also been seen that there was no any significant difference was recorded in Giblets weight and serum triiodothyronine T3, T4 and TSH of both control and irradiated groups. It has been concluded from the present study that irradiated feed can be used at the place of antibiotics with 5KGy level to decrease the mortality % for achieving maximum body weight, body growth and better FCR with less public health problems.

| The study was conducted for the management of pomegranate fruit borer, Virachola isocrates (Fab.) to investigate the biology and infestation level under field and lab conditions. The experiment was conducted on Randomize Complete Block RCB Design with three replications. For field study, twenty-four trees of pomegranate were selected to which chemicals (cypermethrin, indoxacarb, bifenthrin, lamda-cyhalothrin) and botanicals insecticides ( Azadirachta indica , Persicaria hydropiper , Eucalyptus globulus and control (tap water) were assigned in Randomized Complete Block (RCB) Design in three replications. Influence of treatments on mean percent infestation of V. isocrates revealed that lamda-cyhalothrin resulted in lowest mean infestation (3.74±0.36) followed by bifenthrin (3.95±0.32), indoaxarb (4.35±0.28), cypermethrin (4.55±0.28), A. indica (8.00±0.50), P. hydropiper (7.56± 0.27) and E. globulus (7.04±0.70). The maximum mean percent infestation (15.57 ±1.24) was recorded from control trees. Maximum yield (16.00±0.49 ha -1 ) was obtained from lamda-cyhalothrin treated trees while minimum (7.17±0.43 ha -1 ) was recorded in the control. The developmental period of V. isocrates was completed in 34-55 days. The average length of oviposition was 8.84, the larval period was 32.22 days and an average length of pupal was 17.60 days. Adult longevity was 6.58 days. Under laboratory conditions, the highest 100% mortality was caused by lamda-cyhalothrin and cypermethrin after 72hrs followed by A. indica seed extract (81.00) and P. hydropiper (78.80) when tested under laboratory conditions. Based on the current results, it is concluded that lamda-cyhalothrin and A. indica caused high mortality under lab and field conditions, which can be included in future IPM programs.

| Agricultural yield in Pakistan is liable to environmental constraints, mainly salt and water stress due to their elevated degree of impression and non-availability of salt and drought tolerant oat cultivars. For the purpose in-vitro study was conducted at NARC fodder laboratory to study the response of two oat cultivars namely NARC and PARC Oat against drought and salinity stress. Salt concentration of 80 mmolLˉ¹ showed non-significant effect on germination % and shoot length of both oat cultivars except salt concentration of 120 mmolLˉ¹, but tolerance in NARC, Oat is higher than PARC oat. Salt concentrations positively increased root length, except in PARC oat at 120 mmolLˉ¹. Drought stress (PEG) significantly reduced the shoot length in PARC, Oat cultivar when 20% solution was applied. Where both treatments were applied in combinations to measure the drought and salinity tolerance at initial seeding stages of both oat cultivars, no significant effect was observed on germination %, shoot and root length of both oat cultivars, however PARC, oat performs better at 10 % and 20 % drought stress with salinity level of 80 mmolLˉ¹. However, both cultivars showed significantly stunted performance at 10 % and 20 % drought stress with salinity level of 120 mmolLˉ¹ when compared with control treatment. The results of the study present the potential resistance of NARC oat against salinity and PARC oat against drought stress. This study will helps in selection of salt and drought tolerant oat cultivars for the affected areas.

| Various organic materials like humic acid (HA) can be used to enhance P availability from rock phosphate (RP). To investigate the effect of RP augmented with two levels of HA on the productivity of wheat and P uptake, a field trial was conducted. Treatments used were Control (No RP, No HA), rock phosphate alone (RP), RP mixed with HA @ 5 Kg ha ‒1 (RP+HA-5) and RP mixed with HA @ 10 Kg ha ‒1 (RP+HA-10) and were replicated 3 times randomly in Complete Block Design. Addition of RP significantly increased soil P 2 O 5 content, P uptake, total dry matter, grains, and straw yield of wheat over control. Whereas application of RP with increasing amount of HA augmentation further increase these soil and crop parameters over RP alone. The increase in soil P 2 O 5 content, P uptake, grains, total dry matter, and straw yield of wheat was in the order RP+HA-10 > RP+HA-5 > RP > Control. This study conclude that RP can be used as P fertilizer efficiently when HA is mixed with it in order to increase P availability, nutrient uptake and wheat productivity.

| It is universally recognized that women are playing valuable role in all segments of crop and livestock; but unfortunately, the contribution of women in agriculture sector is still underestimated. The purpose of this study was to investigate women’s involvement in farming and livestock in Pothohar, particularly in rain-fed areas of Punjab, Pakistan. The research was carried out at Thatti Gujran, one of Fateh Jhang’s villages during 2018-19. The purpose of this research was to see how many female farmers contribute to farming and livestock activities. The formal survey collected data from eighty (80) female farmers using the random sampling technique. Research was based small landholders. The study’s main findings demonstrate that agriculture, together with livestock rearing is the primary occupation of the area’s residents. Females were completely involved in all aspects of farming. According to survey findings, only 32.5% of female respondents said they were part-time farmers, while 67.5% said they were actively involved all in farming activities. The respondent female farmers were involved in number of farming activates like crop production, wheat harvesting, livestock operations and, cleaning animal sheds was high. Taking into consideration the role of women in farming, the government should take steps to encourage them by providing trainings. The government level training will increase female farmers’ level of involvement and productive capacity in agricultural and livestock management. It was suggested that at the household level, kitchen gardening program should be introduced which will improve their livelihood more effectively.

| Salinity stress (SS) is a major environmental constraint that is limiting agricultural productivity across the globe. Therefore, this study aimed at to assess the effect of diverse SS levels on growth, physiological and biochemical traits of chickpea cultivars. The experiment comprised of different levels of salinity stress i.e., 0, 8 and 12 dsm -1 and different chickpea cultivars i.e., NIAB-2016, Bittle-2016 and Bhakar-2011. The maximum time to 50% emergence (T 50 ), and mean emergence time (MET) and minimum germination percentage (GP) and emergence index (EI) was recorded when high level of salt stress (12 dsm -1 ) was imposed, while minimum, T 50 , and MET and maximum GGP and EI was observed under control conditions. Cultivar Bhaker-2011 took less, T 50 , and MET and had maximum GP and EI while cultivar NAIB-2016 took maximum, T 50 , and MET time and had minimum GP and EI. Likewise, maximum plant height (PH: 68.20 cm), root length (RL: 7.70 cm), shoot length (SL: 16.67 cm), root fresh weight (RFW: 0.45 g) and shoot fresh weight (SFW: 5.22 g) were recorded in control condition while minimum was observed under high salt stress. Cultivars Bhaker-2011 had maximum PH (67.70 cm), SL (14.02 cm), and SFW (5.27 g) while cultivar NIAB-2016 had minimum PH (57.10 cm), SL (14.02 cm), and SFW (4.54 g) among the cultivars. The maximum chlorophyll a and b was recorded under normal conditions while lowest was observed under salt stress. Salty stress increased the Na + concentration and the activities of SOD, POD and CAT. Moreover, Bhaker-2011 had maximum chlorophyll a, b, and activities of SOD, POD and CAT among the cultivars. In conclusion, Bhaker-2011 appeared as a salt tolerant cultivar that was linked with improved growth, photosynthetic performance and antioxidant activities.

| Even though date palm is a thermopile species and can withstand large temperature fluctuations, yet recent climate changes especially prolonged monsoon patterns, starting earlier (end of June) and lasting till September with sporadic changes, has posed multiple threats for Dhakki dates causing spoilage of fruits at early ripening stage, hindering ripening and drying processes at the end. Growers are adapting some alternate options of making ‘Chuhara’ (dried dates) at Khalal stage instead of processed Rutab dates. Experiments were conducted to find out comparative yield potentials of ‘Chuhara’ as well as processed dates produced from the fruits collected from trees protected from rain-fall. The results show that BCR for fresh dates was 2.85, while, it was 1.06 for dry dates. It is depicted that fresh dates give double economic return as compared to dry dates. It was observed that 1Kg Khalal fruits yields ½ Kg dry dates whereas the same quantity of Rutab fruits on ripening and drying yields ¾ Kg of fresh dates. General evaluation of bunches bagging treatments on fruiting traits was conducted. It was concluded that bunches covered with blue paper bags obtained highest score among all the traits and is recommended to achieve best results under current climate change scenario. Generally, fruit covering shields the fruit from adverse effects of monsoon rains, birds, pests and dust.

| Mustard Aphid ( Lipaphis erysimi ) (Homoptera: Aphididae) is a destructive insect pest that causes significant losses in the yield of canola crops. It is essential to find out the management strategies of this pest for higher canola production. Synthetic insecticides and bio-pesticides are used to control L. erysimi . The present study evaluated the efficacy of different pesticides against mustard aphids in selected mustard cultivars under field conditions. The experiment was carried out in Split Plot Design with four treatments and three replications. The results showed that Thiamethoxam, Fipronil and Neem oil were effective against mustard aphids. After the first spray, the minimum mean numbers of aphids were recorded (8.49) on a variety of China in a plot treated with Thiamethoxam. In contrast, the maximum mean number of aphids was observed (28.80) in the control plot. In the case of cultivar, Swabi the highest mean numbers of aphids were noted (53.86) in an untreated plot, whereas the lowest mean numbers of aphids were found (19.72) in Thiamethoxam treated plot, respectively. After 2 nd spray in cultivar China the lowest aphid was (7.45) in the thiamethoxam treated plot, while the maximum mean numbers of aphids were (29.97) in the check plot, respectively. Compared with cultivar Swabi more numbers of aphids were recorded (47.94) on the control plot, while the least numbers of aphids were recorded (23.80) in a plot treated with thiamethoxam, respectively. In cultivar, China the maximum yield (1064.6) kg/ha was obtained from a thiamethoxam treated plot, while the minimum yield was recorded (562.5) kg ha -1 in control plots. Compared with cultivar, Swabi maximum yield (8.16.7) kg/ha was obtained from a thiamethoxam treated plot, and minimum yield (327.1) kg/ha was also recorded in the control plot. Thus overall results indicated that chemical, thiamethoxam along with resistant variety (China) were superior over rest of the all treatments that reduced the aphid and increased the yield productions, whereas regression of the slop of the tested insecticides based IPM strategy is to be applied for aphids control measure in canola crop.

| Phytic acid is substance that stores most of phosphorus in seeds of many cereals. It is a strong chelating agent which can chelate essential nutrients like zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium resulting in mineral deficiency in masses of developing countries. Low phytic acids is therefore a primary factor to enhance availability of these nutrient and combat phytic acid related issues. In this study, the most suitable crop stage and combination of zinc and phosphorus application was investigated to decrease phytin content and enhance zinc bioavailability in rice grain. Three level of phosphorus fertilizer viz. 60, 90, 120 kg ha -1 were employed with 5 and 10 kg ha -1 of zinc fertilizer. Treatment applied with the recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium was taken as control. Paddy yield data were collected and rice grain was analysed for phosphorus, zinc and phytic acid contents. Findings showed that maximum paddy yield (4.80 t ha -1 ) was found where P and Zn were applied 120 and 5 kg ha -1 respectively with maximum P (0.55%), Zn (13.8 mg kg -1 ) and phytic acid (0.38%) contents. Lowest phytic acid contents (0.32%) were observed in control treatment. The results depicted that yield, P and Zn contents of rice grain improved significantly due to synergistic effect of P and Zn fertilizers applied at different growth stages. The phytic acid contents in rice grains remained within safe limit in all treatments but lower grain phytic acid have been observed where only recommended dose of NPK fertilizers were used.

| The study was conducted on genus Chaetocnema Stephens, 183, specimens were collected from various regions of Sindh, Pakistan, in total three species of the genus are described; their habitus images and male genitalia is provided; Chaetocnema belli Jacoby, 1904, Chaetocnema concinnicollis Baly, 1874 and Chaetocnema pusaensis (Maulik, 1926). Distributioanl map for each species is also provided.

| To check the efficacy of fungicides and plant extracts against leaf spot disease of spinach caused by Alternaria alternata five plant extracts and five fungicides were evaluated under in vitro and field conditions by using complete randomized design (CRD) and randomized complete block design (RCBD) . In plant extracts moringa ( Moringa oleifera ) showed minimum fungal growth (20.790) mm followed by ginger ( Zingiber officinale ) (25.910), garlic ( Allium sativum ) (28.087), neem ( Azadirachta indica ) (29.010) and aloevera ( Aloe barbadensis miller ) (29.538) mm as compared to control plates, while in chemicals Tilt showed minimum fungal growth (7.982) followed by Score (10.865), Antracol (11.395), Radomil Gold (11.965) and Blue Copper (14.390) mm as compared to control. In the greenhouse, the most effective fungicide and plant extract were applied as tilt and moringa alone and their combination. The plants treated with tilt + moringa was found effective as compared to alone applications. tilt + moringa showed minimum disease incidence (15%) followed by Tilt (18.33%) and moringa (32.33%) as compared to control. While under the field conditions same combination of Tilt + moringa expressed minimum disease incidence (18%) followed by tilt (20.83%) and moringa (34.50%). By these findings it is recommended to farmers that, Alternaria leaf spot disease of spinach can be managed by using tilt fungicide and moringa extract.

| Environmental stresses and changing climate scenarios are the foremost intimidation to sustainable crop production. Among abiotic stresses, heat and drought stresses instigate substantial rice yield reductions. A pot trial was laid out to observe the efficacy of foliar spray of proline on rice in the alleviation of both heat and drought effects in rice. Pot experiment was laid out in Kharif season 2018 inside the glasshouse of University of Agriculture Faisalabad. Treatments viz., control (no stress imposition) and stress treatments viz., drought; heat and combination of drought + heat stress effects were imposed at anthesis. Three different levels of foliar-applied proline included water spray, 10, 20 and 30-mM concentrations. Combined heat and drought stress increased unfertile tillers, unfilled grains and abortive, chalky and opaque kernels, along with declines in chlorophyll and relative leaf water contents (14% over control) the most than individual stress imposition. A 29.76% increment in yield was observed as comparison to to (control) by the use of exogenous proline and its quality attribute due to improved chlorophyll and relative leaf water contents (10% increase) alongside reductions in undesired quality parameters like chalkiness, opaqueness and abortive kernels. Concurrent heat and drought stress were the most hazardous as comparison with individual stress and 30 mM proline utilization gave more amelioration against stress.

| Berseem ( Trifolium alexandrinum L .) in Pakistan is a vital forage Yield gap because of its palatable and nutritional nature that provides forage in repeated cuttings almost year round is mandatory to be addressed, that is the main focus of the present investigation. The recent investigation was performed to assess the impact of seeding rate consequently plant density on forage and seed tonnage in order to enhance the net return. Experiment treatments comprised of seven seed rates viz., 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, 22.5 and 25 kg ha -1 . Sowing was completed up to 7 th October in each year of study using seed of new cultivar Punjab Berseem. All forage contributing characters were recorded at each cut of fodder and grain tonnage at harvesting were evaluated and documented. Data of agronomic characteristics and economic returns from all planting densities revealed significant differences. The results indicated that 15 kg ha -1 seed rate produced maximum values of heads m -2 (462.50) which was at par with 17.5 kg ha -1 (450.0 m -2 ), tillers m -2 and enhanced forage production 2.85% over control (i.e. 20 kg ha -1 ). Higher grain production (0.85 t ha -1 ) was noted by seeding rate 17.5 kg ha -1 , nevertheless, it was at par with control. The economic data revealed a highest benefit cost ratio of 3.99 under 17.5 kg ha -1 seeding rate compared to control.

| One of the best strategies for the utilization of salts affected soils is the screening of available local plants which can grow or survive under salt stress and have considerable economic importance to the farming community. Therefore, a three-years pot experiment was executed to explore the salinity tolerance of medicinal plants i.e., Podeena ( Mentha spicata ), Hina ( Lawsonia inermis ), Qulfa ( portulace oleracea ), Methi ( Trigonella foenumgraceum ), Dill ( Anethum graveolens ) and Kalwanji ( nigella sativa ), under dual stress of EC e (electrical conductivity of soil extract) 0.79, 6 and 8 dS m -1 and SAR (sodium adsorption ratio) 5.99, 25 and 35. Each crop was grown for four months and biomass yield data was recorded. Results of three successive seasons suggest that all the evaluated medicinal plants can grow under the medium salinity and sodicity level of (6 dS m -1 + 25 SAR). However, biomass yield decreased linearly with increasing levels of salinity and sodicity and a maximum reduction of 63.25% for Podeena, 48.15% for Hina, 54.74% for Qulfa, 32.87% for Methi, 59.77% for Dill and 45.18% for Kalwanji was recorded at the highest level of salinity + sodicity (EC e 8 dS m -1 + SAR 35).

| The phytotoxic impact of functional allelopathy from perennial plants (trees) surrounding our crops in the field is our focus in agroforestry. To quantify its severity, the phytotoxic impact of popular ( Populus deltoides L.) leaves aqueous extract was determined in cultivated oat ( Avena sativa L.), maize ( Zea mays L.), rice ( Oryza sativa L.), pearl millet ( Pennisetum glaucum L.), bread wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) and sorghum [ Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench. Response of aqueous leaves extract was assessed through various agronomic and physiological parameters including number of plants emerged, leaves per plant, chlorophyll content, root and shoot length, plant fresh and dry biomass were studied. The strong phytotoxic effect of aqueous extract on all the studied parameters was recorded when applied @ 25 g L -1 (w/v). The data revealed that aqueous extract produced an inhibitory effect on all the crops’ growth parameters studied. It is recommended that unplanned planting of poplar ( P. deltoides L.) around the cereal crop fields should be avoided in order to obtain optimum crop population and finally the grain yield.

| Alternate bearing (AB), is mostly common in few tree crops which is defined as low or no fruit yield during one year and high yield during the succeeding year. It is mostly occurred due to some climatic conditions, varietal genetic variability and some endogenous hormonal balance. Alternate bearing results into poor flowering, low pollination, low fruit set and fruit drops. All these factors are the climatic factors dependent which can be controlled by proper irrigation scheduling, proper pruning and proper dose and source of fertilizer application at a proper growth stage. As a result, OFF season crop in once year and followed by ON year crop. Alternate bearing cannot be completely controlled but it can be minimized by adopting different approaches like mechanical pruning, pruning through use of growth inhibitors, use of bio stimulants, and proper use of mineral nutrients at proper nutrient demanding growth stage and use of different vitamins and amino acids. The current review was prepared by highlighting the use of these approaches for alternate bearing control in olive.

| The present research was conducted to explore the performance of three fig varieties namely Black Ball, Gilgit Selection and Swat Local under the climatic conditions of Soan Valley, District Khushab; Punjab Pakistan during two consecutive years (2017 and 2018). Flowering in studied cultivars started from the end of March to mid-April. Maturity timing in all three cultivars ranged from early June to late June. Fruit of Black Ball cultivar matured earlier (first week of June) as compared to Gilgit Selection and Swat Local fig cultivars (end June). During both years of study, evaluated quantitative parameters revealed that Black Ball variety had maximum fruit weight and firmness (35.27g and 2.4 N.mm -1 ) followed by Gilgit Selection (28.95g and 2.0 N.mm -1 ), and Swat Local (24.72g and 1.8 N.mm -1 ). Fruit size varied from 11.37cm 2 to 14.35cm 2 for Swat Local, and Black Ball Fig cultivars, respectively. Results displayed that maximum yield per plant (15.20 kg) was fetched by Black Ball cultivar in contrast to Swat Local cultivar (9.37Kg). Results of biochemical parameters declared Black Ball as a superior cultivar owing to the maximum value of TSS (15.55%), total sugars (10.85%), antioxidant activity (75.75%) and minimum value of titratable acidity (0.15%). The results suggested that among studied fig cultivars, Black Ball is a premium fig cultivar having superior physical and chemical features which can be used in future breeding programs and establishment of commercial orchards in Soan Valley area of Punjab, Pakistan.

| A survey study was conducted in Gujranwala district to evaluate the quality of groundwater for agriculture purpose. A total of 565 groundwater samples were collected from farmers’ tube wells during random survey of four tehsils of Gujranwala district, i.e., Gujranwala, Kamoke, Wazirabad and Noshera Virkan. The water samples were analyzed in Soil and Water Testing Laboratory Gujranwala for electrical conductivity (EC), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), chloride (Cl) and sodium (Na) of the groundwater. The results revealed that out of 565 samples, 231 (41%) were fit; 149 (26%) were marginally fit, and; 185 (33%) were unfit regarding their quality. The maximum samples were found unfit for high RSC followed by EC and combined effect of EC and RSC, implying that use of such groundwater for irrigation may be a cause of salinity as well as sodicity for soils of the district. The ‘maximum values’ of Cl ion and ‘mean values’ of Na ion were observed higher than their permissible values (4 me L -1 and 3 me L -1 respectively) in all the four tehsils, indicating that groundwater is toxic to crop growth at certain locations of the district. The data manifested that the quality deciding parameters i.e., EC, SAR and RSC of irrigation water were statistically positively correlated (p <0.01) with each other having coefficient of correlation r = 0.685, 0.540, 0.597 for EC; SAR, EC; RSC and SAR; RSC respectively. From these results, it was concluded that RSC is the major factor for unfitness of water quality in Gujranwala district followed by EC and SAR, whereas, toxicity of groundwater to crop growth due to Cl and Na ions is also worth-considering.

| Seed rate is one of the most pivotal factors that significantly impact grain quality and yield in wheat. In wheat-based crop production system, it can be easily managed. An indiscrimination in seeding rate can lead to higher production cost but will also result in decline of crop yield and quality. Hence, the present experiment was designed to establish the optimal seeding density of three different wheat genotypes (Fatehjang-2016, Dharabi-11 and 16FJ17) of the Barani Areas to attain maximum economic yield. The research experiment was managed in split amidst the cropping season of Rabi 2019-20; one at the laboratory by growing three diverse genotypes of wheat at four different levels of seeding densities in pots and the other at field area of Barani Agricultural Research Station, Fateh Jang at four discrete levels of seeding density of 80, 100, 120 and 140 kg ha -1 , respectively. The experiment was laid down using a RCBD with three replication and four treatments. Different seed rates and genotypes significantly affected all plant traits except days to 50% heading, plant height and germination percentage. Contrarily, the interactive effect of genotype and seeding rate on all growth and yield attributes was found non-significant. Whereas, seeding density of 120 kg ha -1 exhibited more germination percentage (85 %), shoot length (11.57 cm), coleoptile length (3.97 cm), days to 50% heading (130), plant height (110 cm), nodes per stem (5.0), 1000 grain weight (49.53 g), grain per spike (41.0), days to maturity (172.67) and grain yield (3755 kg ha -1 ) in Fatehjang-2016. Whereas Dharabi-11 showed maximum root length (17.64 cm) and tiller count (405.67 m -2 ) at same level of seeding density. In contrast, 16FJ17 stood second in all parameters except root length and number of tillers m -2 . The value for grain per spike (40.0) and shoot length (10.55 cm) is at par with Fatehjang-2016 and Dharabi-11, respectively at 120 kg ha -1 of seeding level. It is evident from the results that wheat variety Fatehjang-2016 can effectively be planted at an optimum seed rate of 120 kg ha -1 for general cultivation and better economic returns in Barani Areas of Pakistan, provided all the agronomic and crop management practices must be kept optimum.

| Pesticides are the chemicals substances which are used for prevention of plant diseases, weeds and being used widely for increasing the quantity as well as quality of food products. Naturally, these pesticides interact with environment by altering the properties of host substances by producing the adverse impacts because most of the famers have no idea of using these chemicals substances. Pesticides are absorbed by soil particles which are transported to plants as well as animals through food chain and severely affect the ecosystem by causing acute or chronic disorders in the people of all ages. Similarly these pesticides cause serious threats to the aquatic ecosystem after their release by comprising different toxic substances, heavy metals and contaminants. This review paper has focused on the toxic nature of different pesticides, impacts and their possible refinement strategies from the environment as well as ways to minimize their impacts on plants and animals as adverse impacts of pesticides have also been observed on the human health, plants and other animals which need to control by reducing the use, release and synthesis on large scale.

| Fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda has shown invasive characteristics, especially against maize production in African and Asian countries including Pakistan. Therefore, understandings of its biological features in introduced locations could improve understanding of its invasive features, which is necessary for better management. Accordingly, life table and fertility schedule studies of FAW were conducted under laboratory conditions on maize leaves and stems. Three cohorts comprised of 131, 112 and 105 eggs of similar age were used for both leaves and stems. The results indicated that maximum mortality of FAW in both maize stems and leaves were recorded in pupa and 1 st larval instar, respectively whereas, maximum survival was recorded in 4 th and 5 th larval instars. Almost, similar male to female sex ratio was recorded in leaves and stems with higher female longevity in leaves than stems. No significant difference was recorded in approximate and corrected generation time of FAW between leaves and stems. Innate capacity of increase (r c ) and intrinsic rate of natural increase (r m ) recorded on stems (0.1237±0.0032 and 0.1248±0.0033, respectively) were higher than leaves (0.1027±0.0025 and 0.1034±0.0026, respectively). Finite rate of increase ( λ ), doubling time (DT) and net reproductive rate (R o ) observed on maize stems (0.3363±0.0086, 5.61±0.14 days and 143.29±12.27 offspring/individual, respectively) were higher than those observed on leaves (0.2791±0.0069, 6.76±0.16 days and 69.63±6.22 offspring/individual, respectively). As FAW showed better population and reproductive parameters on maize stems than leaves, it should be managed as early as possible to restrict losses to maize before establishment of perfect stems.