ICAR- Indian Institute of Vegetable Research Hosts Mega Agricultural Fair in Varanasi to Promote Advanced Farming Practices

Varanasi: In a bid to foster advancements in agriculture, the ICAR- Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) in Varanasi is set to organize a three-day Regional Agricultural Fair at its Shahanshahpur campus from February 3rd to 5th, 2024. The fair aims to promote human health and farmer prosperity through the dissemination of advanced agricultural practices.

Shri Surya Pratap Shahi, the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister of Uttar Pradesh, will grace the occasion as the chief guest, accompanied by key dignitaries such as Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research, and officials from ICAR including Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, DDG (Hort), Dr. US Gautam, DDG (Extension), and Dr. Sudhakar Pandey, ADG, ICAR.

The fair will focus on diverse agricultural aspects, including agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, advanced vegetable cultivation, polyhouse technology, high-tech nursery practices, organic farming, and processing. Technical sessions will cover crucial topics such as value addition, agricultural mechanization, drones, and pest and disease management, providing a platform for interaction between agricultural experts and farmers from across the country.

Organized in collaboration with the Association for Promotion of Innovation in Vegetables, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, State Government, and various government and private establishments, the fair will showcase a vegetable exhibition and offer a platform for the display and sale of agricultural inputs and implements by various organizations.

Dr. Tushar Kanti Behera, Director of IIVR, emphasized the importance of addressing issues like climate change, storage, marketing, processing, and self-employment in agriculture for future food and nutrition security. Highlighting the success story of India’s record production in 2022-23, he acknowledged the contributions of farmers, policy makers, scientists, and stakeholders. The fair is expected to contribute significantly to the dissemination of advanced agricultural technologies and practices among farmers in the region.

Farmers from six different states, along with dignitaries from state and central governments, universities, ICAR institutes, agri-business institutes, and various companies, are expected to participate in the three-day event. The fair is set to play a vital role in promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers with the latest knowledge and technologies.