The issues of forestry research and human resource development in the PFI were highlighted in a report submitted by the author to FAO (Shams R. Khan 2001). Several suggestions were made to develop the institutional framework and to enhance research and training capabilities, including outlines to initiate and strengthen FGR conservation strategy in Pakistan. On account of a 50% reduction in the PFI technical staff, with no induction of fresh blood during the last decade, research capabilities have suffered in almost all disciplines of forestry research. This stagnation also led to a decline in chances of training for professional staff in research and development. It is suggested that short-term training in FGR conservation be provided to each Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) (Silva) to undertake and develop conservation strategies for both flora and fauna. As the knowledge in forest genetics and silviculture plays an important role and acts as a backbone in conservation; it is suggested that long-term training in related areas be provided to the young professional staff to improve their capabilities.
Both the institutes, viz. the PFI and PFRI should undertake a detailed survey to assess the status of commercially important species so far as conservation is concerned. All such activities should be part and parcel of the national forest policy with proper monitoring and evaluation. Training programmes for local communities should be initiated to conserve woody as well as non-woody FGR. The Forest Geneticist/Silviculturist should be actively involved with the DFO (Silva) from the beginning of any conservation programmes. The team of wildlife in each province should be placed at the disposal of the Forest Geneticist to conserve critically endangered biomes.
A strong coordination is needed to strengthen the international treaties, like the CBD and the MAB-programme, to which Pakistan is a signatory. The CBD has emerged as the most powerful convention in the post-Rio era. It is now almost a decade that Pakistan signed and ratified the CBD.
It has approved the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), submitted mandatory reports to the CBD secretariat and attended almost all the international meetings arranged by the CBD secretariat.
Since the preparation of the BAP was steered by an NGO (IUCN-P), it could be observed that the level of awareness as seen in the activities of similar NGOs is quite good. This could also be attributed to the availability of donor funds mainly from the GEF window for biodiversity. However, conservation efforts appear to revolve around wildlife, natural habitats and capacity building activities. Wildlife is one of the many components of biodiversity. Simultaneously, the association of tree growers and community-based organizations, NGOs and schoolchildren need to be involved in all activities for the conservation of genetic resources. The national TV should be used to create awareness among the people. Following these guidelines it is anticipated that the endangered species in some ecosystems may be restored.
