State Level Trainers' Training Programme commences
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal,November 26, 2012:
A 2-DAY long State level Trainers' Training Programme on "Tuber Crop Based Farming System for Sustainable Production and Income Generation" being organized by All India Coordinated Research Project on Tuber Crops, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal began from today at the College of Agriculture, CAU.
The inaugural function of the training programme was graced by Dr Kh Ratankumar, Minister for Works and Transport and Dr SN Puri, Vice Chancellor, CAU, Imphal as Chief Guest and President respectively.
Dr M Ruhinikumar, Director of Research, CAU, Imphal and Dr James George, Project Coordinator, AICRP-TC, CTCRI, Thiruvananthapuram were also present as Guests of Honour.
Speaking as Chief Guest of the function, Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar expressed contentment at the overall performance of CAU and stated that CAU, Imphal has been contributing to the development of the state in the field of agriculture.
It has not only brought about a transformation in agriculture in Manipur but also throughout the North East region.
He also stated that Tuber crop is an alternate crop besides rice and it is the third most important food crop after cereals.
Taking note of woeful condition of the road leading from Imphal to CAU in Iroishemba, the Minister assured that there is nothing to worry about the road since it would be fully repaired during this season and added that just filling up pot holes along the road stretch will not be a good idea.
Delivering the Presidential speech, Dr SN Puri stated that of the many challenges being faced by CAU, Imphal, increasing the intensity of crops has been most challenging.
Pointing out that a large number of cultivable areas in the state are being left unused after harvest, Dr Puri suggested that "If we can cultivate second crop in these areas, a lot can be improved in the food production of the state thereby generating income of the society".