CAU seminar eyes food security
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 29 2011:
A two day seminar cum training programme on 'Seed production on Major Cereal Crops of Manipur' organised by Directorate of Research (Mega Seed Project) of Central Agricultural University, Iroisemba commenced from today at the university's conference hall.
Speaking as the chief guest, Director of Extension and Education (CAU) Prof M Premjit emphasised on the need for advanced pre-plantation preparation for both rabi and kharif crops.
Highlighting that paddy varieties cultivated in Manipur not only tastes good but also have high nutritional value and called upon the farmers to consult subject experts in order to ensure bumper yield, he also announced that CAU would extend all possible assistance to promote maize cultivation in the hill districts as hilly terrain is highly suitable for cultivation of the food crop.
Premjit further advised potato cultivators to keep constant touch with subject experts as nurturing potato seeds and storage after harvest is a time consuming process.
Presenting the presidential address, CAU's Director of Research Dr M Rohinikumar said as seed variety and soil texture are important elements for ensuring a good harvest there is need for utmost care and consultation to grow plants in a scientific manner.
While pointing out that majority of the 25 lakh population of the State depends on rice as the staple food for which an annual quantity of 600 metric tonne is required to feed the people, he said with only 2 lakh hectares plantation area available in Manipur multiple cropping system needs to be adopted to enhance the local production scale.
Rohinikumar also stated that plantation of maize, wheat and potato too should be promoted and expanded as there are many areas in Manipur where these food crops suitable for plantation.
He also informed that seed breeding is the responsibility of the University.
While CAU's Head of Plant Breeding & Genetics Prof JM Laishram graced the inaugural day as the guest of honour, KVK, Thoubal (Plant Breeding) S Sumangal lectured on 'Quality seed production in hybrid rice: The present status with reference to Manipur'; Junior Plant Breeder (AICRP/R&M) Dr Th renuka on 'Quality hybrid seed production in maize, procedure for production of single and double cross hybrid maize and its future in Manipur'; and CAU's Assistant Prof N Brajendra on 'Composite maize production for seed with reference to Manipur' as the resource persons.