The NARC-G1, developed by scientists at the National Agriculture Research Centre (NARC) in Islamabad, stands out as the most lucrative garlic
variety in the country. This variety has so much potential that it can yield double or even triple the produce. Its per-acre yield ranges from 6 to 9
tonnes, attributed to its larger seed or bulb size, thicker cloves, and greater weight compared to conventional crops, besides the plant’s
improved height. Its shelf life is more as compared to conventional varieties.
The locally produced garlic weighs around 30-50 grammes on average, while NARC-G1 boasts a weight of 250-450 grammes. Furthermore, this
variety has exhibited robust resistance against crop diseases.
The NARC-G1 has consistently displayed excellent performance under diverse weather conditions through rigorous testing across various
regions, from Karachi in the south to Gilgit in the north. Major contributions to Pakistan’s garlic production come from Punjab and Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa provinces, accounting for over 79% of the total output.
An additional advantage of NARC-G1 is its extended shelf life. When stored in a well-ventilated and shaded environment with the stalk intact,
NARC-G1 garlic remains unspoiled for up to a year, demonstrating resistance to sprouting even in household or warehouse storage.