Set up millet board at agri university: MLA Sawarkar
organised by the Directorate of Extension Education at PDKV Akola,
, University Executive Council member and farmers' issues expert, advocated for establishing a millet board in Maharashtra's agricultural universities, similar to Bihar's Makhana Board.
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He additionally discussed the importance of balanced BT cotton seed usage and urged farmer producer companies to maintain integrity in agricultural trade operations.
The establishment of a millet board in state agricultural universities is essential, MLA Savarkar said.
MLA Savarkar, speaking as special guest, addressed the declining soybean cultivation and rising pigeon pea farming trends. He highlighted the successful implementation of PKV Amba and Suvarna Soya varieties, whilst advising adherence to university guidelines for home-grown seeds.
He emphasised expanding coarse grain cultivation and suggested that purchasing 17 varieties of coarse grains at minimum support prices would enhance agricultural income.
He stressed the universities' role in promoting sustainable agriculture.
Sharad Gadakh, Vice-Chancellor of
, noted favourable rainfall predictions and emphasised combining modern technology with traditional farming methods. He discussed rainfall patterns over five decades, suggesting intercropping with cotton and soybean to minimise weather-related losses.
He advocated for integrated farming systems, proper crop rotation, and organic fertiliser usage.
The event saw participation from numerous dignitaries including MLA Savarkar, Mahabeej General Manager Vivek Thakre, farmer representative Rishikesh Junghare, and various university directors. Farmers from Vidarbha, Marathwada, and parts of Madhya Pradesh attended in significant numbers.
The programme commenced with honouring Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh's portrait. Technical sessions covered various agricultural topics, including weather forecasts, pest management, and cultivation techniques. The fair witnessed unprecedented participation, with approximately 1,400 farmers purchasing university-modified seeds. The event recorded sales of agricultural inputs worth 17 million rupees, including substantial quantities of certified seeds for various crops.
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