Take tech to farmers’ to boost their income: Agri minister

Varanasi: Union minister of state for agriculture & farmers' welfare Ramnath Thakur called upon agriculture scientists to undertake more pro-farmer research with focus on increasing their income.During his stay at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (ICAR-IIVR) here on Sunday, he held detailed interactions with the institute's scientists and staff and called for promoting innovations in agricultural sector and doubling farmers' income.The minister appreciated ongoing research and development activities of the institute, including improved vegetable varieties, seed production, protected cultivation, organic and natural farming, value addition and entrepreneurship development initiatives. He stated that effective dissemination of scientific technologies at the farmers' field level, availability of quality seeds, cost-reducing technologies and direct market linkages would play decisive role in enhancing farmers' income. The minister also emphasised strengthening Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to promote collective marketing, processing and export opportunities.He highlighted that govt is prioritising an integrated model of research-extension-entrepreneurship to enhance farmers' income, in which leading institutions like ICAR-IIVR play a crucial role. He instructed the institute to ensure rapid dissemination of technologies to farmers, availability of quality seeds and planting materials, development of export-oriented vegetable varieties, strengthening partnerships with startups and FPOs and engaging youth in agri-entrepreneurship. "Success of scientists lies in taking their research work and technologies to the fields and providing direct benefits to farmers," said Thakur, emphasising that vegetables are a guarantee of nutritional security in the country and can benefit farmers substantially. Director Dr Rajesh Kumar, presented a comprehensive overview of the institute's activities and achievements. He elaborated on significant contributions of vegetable crops towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, ensuring nutritional security and enhancing productivity. He reaffirmed the institute's commitment to working closely with farmers and continuing its dedicated efforts in future too.