Posted on May, 14, 2024 at 10:05 am
Rabat - The National Institute for Agricultural Research (NIAR) is making significant strides in developing new strains of grains, legumes, and oilseeds resilient to adverse climate conditions, with the aim of boosting crop production by 50%.
According to a report from state television SNRT, NIAR revealed the plan for the research program in a seminar held on Monday at the Regional Agricultural Research Center in Kenitra.
During the seminar, NIAR shed light on the institute’s local scientific endeavors, which have led to the development of 30 to 50 new plant varieties tailored to address the climate-induced drop in agricultural yield.
Beyond research, the initiative extends to practical workshops aimed at educating farmers and professionals about the innovative features of these new plants.
According to NIAR officials, the varieties are specifically designed for the needs of Moroccan farmers to ensure their efficiency. The seminar offered professionals tangible insights into production techniques such as supplementary irrigation, which has shown promise in ensuring reliable yields through experimental trials in various regions.
The laboratory is already conducting trial platforms set up in strategic locations like Gharb, Saiss, Tadla, and Zayr.
Researchers at NIAR and the International Center for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas (ICARDA) have dedicated a decade or more to perfecting strains of drought-resistant grains.
The process involves rigorous experimentation and selection to ensure the resulting varieties not only survive but thrive in harsh conditions, providing farmers with higher yields and better-quality crops.
However, despite the notable advancements, research into developing climate-resilient crops remains to be in the early stages.
Mouha Farahi, Head of the Genetic Improvement Department at NIAR, explains to SNRT that variety development is a meticulous process involving hybridization and careful selection.
These efforts align with the broader goals of Morocco’s Green Generation 2020-2030 initiative, aiming to bolster farmers’ incomes and establish a new agricultural middle class crucial for the nation's food security.
For his part, Mohamed Sadiki, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water, and Forests, stressed the importance of agricultural research in addressing the country’s drought-stricken agriculture.
He further highlighted the need to invest in scientific endeavors to develop resilient crop varieties and enhance productivity.
Source: Moroccan World News