Annual Zonal Workshop of KVKs kicks off
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 19 2024:
The Annual Zonal Workshop of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) organised by the ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute (ATARI), Zone VII, Umiam in association with College of Fisheries, Lembucherra began today at the College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura.
The three-day event, running from September 19 to September 21, brought together 43 KVKs from across the state of Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura, marking a significant milestone in advancing agricultural innovation in the Northeast, said a release.
The workshop was inaugurated by N Indrasena Reddy, Governor of Tripura.
Speaking on the occasion, N Indrasena Reddy commended KVKs as the true bridge between the laboratory and the land.
He emphasized the role of KVKs as game changers in the region, with over 50 percent of farmers benefiting from their knowledge and services.
The Governor praised the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and CAU, Imphal for its pioneering role in agricultural technology transfer and urged a focus on youth employment through innovative agricultural solutions.
Dr Anupam Mishra, Vice Chancellor, CAU, Imphal emphasized the importance of the College of Fisheries in promoting sustainable fisheries practices across Northeast India.
He underscored the vital role of the College in developing innovative fish farming techniques and fostering a network of different KVKs to enhance the region's fisheries sector.
He highlighted the significance of networking between KVKs and the College of Fisheries to disseminate modem, eco-friendly fisheries practices to rural farmers, ensuring improved livelihoods and environmental sustainability.
The VC also stressed on the need for continued collaboration to boost the region's fish production and integrate sustainable aquaculture into Northeast India's agricultural framework.
Dr U S Gautam, DDG (Agricultural Extension), ICAR, outlined an ambitious roadmap for the development of KVKs.
Emphasizing the future of agricultural innovation, Dr Gautam highlighted key strategies to transform KVKs into hubs of excellence.
A central focus of his vision included enhancing the intellectual property portfolio of KVKs, aiming to increase patents, copyrights, and geographical indications linked to indigenous agricultural technologies and practices.
Dr R R Burman, ADG (Agricultural Extension), emphasized the monumental role KVKs have played in advancing sustainable agriculture.
He praised KVKs for their technology backstopping and partnerships with the private sector, which have significantly enhanced agroforestry, regenerative agricultural technologies, and carbon farming practices.
Dr P Chakraborty, former Member of ASRB, New Delhi, and ADG (PP) of ICAR, stated that the workshop serves as an ideal platform for fostering partnerships, sharing knowledge, and shaping strategies for future agricultural growth in the region.
Dr M M Adhikary, former Vice Chancellor of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, emphasized the significance of knowledge sharing and partnerships in ensuring sustainable and resilient agricultural progress.
Dr A K Mohanty, Director of ICAR-ATARI Zone VII, highlighted the event's diverse agenda, featuring Stakeholders' Interfaces, Agri-Industry/FPO Meets, and a showcase of cutting-edge agricultural technologies.
Prof A B Patel, Dean, College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (I), Tripura shared that the three-day event will include sessions such as the Stakeholders' Interface, Agri-Industry/FPO Meet, Technology Exhibition, and the PPV&FRA Workshop.
"These forums will enable participants to exchange ideas, review policies, and reflect on the remarkable achievements of the KVKs", he added.
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