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Title: Social, economic, and cultural dimensions of wheat stripe rust dynamics in Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Authors: Sajid Mehmood, Arsalan Hussain, Marina Sajid, Khadija Rafiq, Noman Jamal, Shahzad Latif, Gulshan Irshad, Muhammad Fayyaz, Muhammad Inam ul Haq
Journal: Plant Protection
Publisher: Center for Community Learning
Country: Pakistan
Year: 2024
Volume: 8
Issue: 4
Language: English
Keywords: Wheat stripe rustCultural heritageSocioeconomic impactDisease dynamicsSustainable agriculture
The present study examined the cultural significance of wheat and the threat of wheat stripe rust ( Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici ) in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, aiming to protect wheat farming heritage, promote sustainable practices, and ensure future food security. A mixed-methods approach was employed to capture the multifaceted role of wheat within Rawalpindi’s social structure, traditions, and food security dynamics. Surveys and interviews revealed that most wheat fields were at the tillering and heading stages during the survey period. Sporadic disease outbreaks, particularly at the milking stage, were reported in areas such as Maira Shareef and Chakri villages, highlighting localized infections. To achieve the study objectives, the qualitative component involved in-depth interviews with 10 agricultural specialists in wheat cultivation and 12 experienced wheat farmers, selected through purposive sampling. For the quantitative component, stratified random sampling was used to engage 300 wheat farmers, providing broader insights into farming practices and disease awareness. A significant contrast emerged regarding awareness of wheat stripe rust disease. Although farmers expressed concern about its potential to reduce yields, much of the general population remained unaware of the disease. This underscores the importance of targeted awareness initiatives, such as grassroots campaigns delivered in local languages to address these knowledge gaps effectively. The study emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and farmers, to develop disease-resistant wheat varieties. It also advocated for ecosystem-based pest management strategies to mitigate the impact of wheat stripe rust and ensure the sustainability of wheat farming traditions.
To examine the cultural significance of wheat and the threat of wheat stripe rust in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, aiming to protect wheat farming heritage, promote sustainable practices, and ensure future food security.
A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative in-depth interviews with 10 agricultural specialists and 12 experienced wheat farmers (purposive sampling), and quantitative surveys with 300 wheat farmers (stratified random sampling). Field observations were conducted to record disease symptoms. Data analysis involved thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative responses.
graph TD
A[Define Research Objectives] --> B[Select Mixed-Methods Approach];
B --> C[Qualitative Component];
C --> D[Conduct In-depth Interviews with Specialists and Farmers];
B --> E[Quantitative Component];
E --> F[Conduct Surveys with Wheat Farmers];
F --> G[Field Observations of Disease Symptoms];
D --> H[Thematic Analysis of Qualitative Data];
G --> I[Descriptive Statistics of Quantitative Data];
H --> J[Integrate Findings];
I --> J;
J --> K[Formulate Conclusions and Recommendations];
The study highlights a significant knowledge gap regarding wheat stripe rust among the general population, emphasizing the need for targeted awareness campaigns. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and farmers are crucial for developing disease-resistant varieties and implementing ecosystem-based pest management. The cultural significance of wheat is deeply embedded in Rawalpindi's society, making its protection vital.
Most wheat fields were at the tillering and heading stages during the survey. Sporadic disease outbreaks were reported at the milking stage in specific villages. Farmers expressed concern about yield reduction due to stripe rust, but much of the general population remained unaware of the disease. Wheat holds significant cultural importance, tied to traditions, diets, and social norms.
Wheat stripe rust poses a significant threat to food security and the cultural heritage of wheat farming in Rawalpindi. Targeted awareness initiatives, collaborative efforts for developing resistant varieties, and ecosystem-based pest management strategies are essential for sustainable wheat production and the preservation of cultural traditions.
1. Sample Size: 300 wheat farmers participated in the quantitative survey.
2. Interviewees: 10 agricultural specialists and 12 experienced wheat farmers were interviewed qualitatively.
3. Disease Observation: Sporadic disease outbreaks were reported at the milking stage in areas like Maira Shareef and Chakri villages.
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