CGIAR Central Asia and the Caucasus

Program Themes

The research problems are inter-related and the development of solutions necessitates a research program that integrates crops, livestock, natural resource management and the necessary policies to support improvements. The research activities of the Consortium Partners in Central Asia and the Caucasus are fully integrated into the Medium Term Plans of ICARDA, the convening Center for the Program. The program is organized under broad themes, with each theme sub-divided into activities.

These themes provide the overall framework in which specific projects are developed and implemented in partnership between NARS and IARCs. Given the urgency of the situation, the focus is initially on the transfer and adaptation of improved technologies for rapid impact on agricultural production, while at the same time strengthening the national institutions and building their capacity to undertake strategic research and technology generation.

Program Themes:

1. Productivity of Agricultural Systems
   • Germplasm Enhancement
   • Strengthening National Seed Supply Systems
   • Cropping Systems Management and Agricultural Diversification
   • Livestock Production Systems and Integrated Feed/ Livestock Management
2. Natural Resource Conservation and Management
   • Irrigation, Drainage, and Water Basin Analysis
   • On-Farm Soil and Water Management
   • Rangeland Rehabilitation and Management
3. Conservation and Evaluation of Genetic Resources
   • Plant Genetic Resources
   • Animal Genetic Resources
4. Socioeconomic and Public Policy Research
5. Strengthening National Programs