46 SCIENTIFIC REPORTS OF THE AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH 



product to about one-seventh. Packed in this manner, it is 

 possible to compress the weekly supply of vegetables neces- 

 sary for a battalion on active service into twelve kerosine 

 tins which can be transported by two mules. At the time of 

 writing, the process is in full operation in the Quetta Can- 

 tonments where a large drying ground has been arranged 

 by the Army. 



The vegetable drying experiments have aroused a great 

 deal of interest among the zamindars, a large number of 

 whom have visited the drying ground. A detailed report of 

 the process is now in the press and it is proposed to have 

 this translated into Urdu for local circulation. There is 

 every prospect that the work will lead to the foundation of 

 a new local industry. 



4. Fruit-packing. 



The sale of improved fruit boxes to the public during the 

 year exceeded all expectations. If: was stated in the last 

 report that a large supply had been procured for 1916 more 

 than sufficient to meet any demand that was likely to arise. 

 Early in the season, however, the sales increased so rapidly 

 that it was difficult for the staff available to place the boxes 

 on the market fast enough. The Indian traders bought up 

 ail the crates and punnets before the season was half over 

 and only a few peach boxes were carried over for 1917. 

 During the season, 4,398 boxes and 366 punnets were sold, 

 the proceeds amounting to Rs. 5,028. Had the stock been 

 larger, boxes to the value of at least Rs. 7,500 would have 

 been sold. The Indian dealers have now realized the value 

 of the two-pound punnet, suitably arranged in crates, for 

 the transport of grapes. By means of these crates, Balu- 

 chistan grapes reach distant cities of India like Madras, 

 Bombay and Calcutta without damage. In consequence^ 

 the demand from India has increased and is likely to increase 

 still further. The only thing needed for stimulating the 

 grape trade was a suitable method of packing for transport 

 and this has now been provided. The valleys of Baluchistan 

 are eminently suitable for the cultivation of grapes. The 



