We are seeking proposals to develop a practical, science-based, and locally implementable PRM framework. It will draw from successful international models of resistant management strategy while tailoring recommendations to Pakistan’s agronomic, ecological, and socio-economic conditions.

Description

The Better Cotton is a multi-stakeholder initiative and the largest cotton sustainability programme in the world. BC and its Partners currently support over 2.3 million farmers in 23 countries in adopting more sustainable agricultural practices. Thanks to these efforts, Better Cotton accounts for around 22% of global cotton production. BC works closely with stakeholders all the way from farms to fashion brands and civil society organizations, driving the cotton sector toward sustainability.

In Pakistan, Better Cotton has been actively engaged in driving positive change within the cotton sector since 2010. Operating through its dedicated country office, the organization has implemented the Better Cotton Standard and collaborated with local stakeholders to improve the sustainability and livelihoods of cotton farmers not only in Pakistan but also in the Central Asia region. These efforts have resulted in significant advancements, fostering the adoption of sustainable cotton cultivation practices and reducing environmental impact throughout the country.

To achieve the ambitious targets outlined in Better Cotton's 2030 strategy, the organization recognizes the importance of process development to implement and amplify its impact. Cotton production in Pakistan is critical for rural livelihoods, economic development, and export earnings.

However, rising pest resistance particularly to insecticides and Better Cotton has become a serious threat to productivity and environmental sustainability. To address this, there is an urgent need to develop a comprehensive and context-specific Cotton Pest Resistance Management Framework
(PRM) for field to implement by that promotes sustainable pest control and protects beneficial organisms.

More information about Better Cotton can be found on our website: www.bettercotton.org Better Cotton Initiative started working in Pakistan from 2009 and has MoU with Ministry of Interior Government of Pakistan. In 2018, Better Cotton Initiative got registered a section 42 company in Pakistan and running operating through this company.

Background

We are seeking proposals to develop a practical, science-based, and locally implementable PRM framework. It will draw from successful international models of resistant management strategy while tailoring recommendations to Pakistan’s agronomic, ecological, and socio-economic conditions.

The purpose of this consultancy position is to engage an individual consultant or firm to review the literature, conduct key informative interviews and design a Cotton Pest Resistance Management Framework that is evidence-based, locally appropriate, and easily adaptable by Better Cotton programme
partners and farmers in Pakistan. The framework should be handy to implement for strengthening the IPM implementation and provide a path to achieve country and Better Cotton overall 2030 targets of pesticide reduction.

Objectives

The consultant will be responsible for:

1. To review literature, international frameworks of pest resistance, conduct KIIs with experts to gather information of successful frameworks of pest resistance monitoring and management.
2. Develop a locally tailored pest resistance monitoring and management framework aligned with Pakistan’s agronomic, ecological, and socio-economic conditions.
3. Conduct a training session for programme partners on the practical application of the framework

Scope of Work

1. Review literature and global best practices/frameworks on monitoring and managing insect/pest
resistance and provide actionable recommendations for contextual adaptation and implementation in inception and final report.

2. Review Pakistan’s current pest dynamics, pesticide usage, resistance patterns, and Better Cotton performance to contextualize the information for development of resistant management framework.

3. Conduct consultations with equal representation from Punjab and Sindh, 12 (KIIs) with  entomologists (03), extension workers (03), progressive farmers (03), pesticide dealers (03), seed companies (02), and Better Cotton staff (02).

4. Gather insights on current practices, knowledge gaps, and adoption barriers through key KIIs.
5. Develop Pest Resistance Management Framework. The framework must include the following
sections:

• Algorithm based pest resistance monitoring for early warnings, trend analysis and actionabledecisions based on Better Cotton RIR and practice adoption data. The other data sources like trends and threats of pest resistance.
• An R-based decision dashboard will run pre-set algorithms on “pest resistance indicators” and translate them into prioritized actions.
• Develop integrated insect and Better resistance management strategy encompassing crop rotation, refuge planning, action thresholds with scouting protocols, and recommendations on biopesticides, natural predators, and cultural practices for sustainable pest control.
• Recommendations for policy integration, regulatory alignment, and public-private partnerships in final report.

6. Conduct one training session for programme partners on the practical application of the framework.

The consultant will work in close collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders, under the supervision of the Capacity Building Coordinator. Additionally, the consultant will maintain reporting with Better Cotton focal point.

High-level Timeline

The specific dates of delivery for each deliverable will be agreed upon at the beginning of the consultancy,  considering the overall timeline and milestones. 

Required Skills & Knowledge 

The Consultant must have hold following experience, skills & competencies: 

In addition to skills, competencies and expertise, we will consider value for money and demonstrable  commitment to the sustainability field to evaluate applications.