Lucknow: A meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee was held under the chairmanship of Agriculture Production Commissioner, Monica S. Garg, to discuss the successful implementation of various horticultural development schemes and programs operated by the Uttar Pradesh Department of Horticulture and Food Processing. The meeting focused on the adoption of modern techniques, the integration of ongoing research and innovations from both India and abroad, and delivering these benefits directly to farmers. Key topics discussed included the expansion of horticultural crop areas, monitoring pesticide use, and promoting flower cultivation.
One of the significant decisions taken during the meeting was to ensure the availability of high-quality hybrid (F1) seeds to expand the area under horticultural crops in the state. For this, the Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) in Varanasi, Narendra Deva Agricultural and Technical University (NDUAT) in Ayodhya, and the Central Institute of Subtropical Horticulture (CISH) in Lucknow have been instructed to provide the Department with detailed information on advanced varieties and their availability. Based on this, the department will place seed demands as required.
The meeting also emphasized the promotion of the controlled use of chemical pesticides. To achieve this, Dr. G.P. Singh, Joint Director at the R.C.I.P.M.C., Lucknow, was tasked with preparing comprehensive guidelines. These guidelines will be circulated at the district level among farmers, promoting the balanced use of chemical pesticides. This initiative aims not only to encourage the judicious use of pesticides but also to have a positive impact on the environment and agricultural production.
Dr. A.K. Shasne, Director of the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow, informed the committee that the institute is currently running flower cultivation projects in 12 clusters across the state. To promote the advanced cultivation of flowers such as roses, marigolds, and gladiolus, it was decided to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NBRI. This collaboration will provide farmers with high-quality planting material, which is expected to enhance their income sources.
Additionally, to promote advanced vegetable production techniques and boost mango exports, the Department will coordinate with IIVR in Varanasi and CISH in Lucknow to organize training programs for farmers. Given the growing threat of pests and diseases due to changing weather patterns, the Department has requested consultation from agricultural universities and research institutions to provide advice on pest control and disease prevention to safeguard crops.
The meeting also saw valuable inputs from experts and officials regarding the effective implementation of horticultural projects. Among those present were Agriculture Secretary Mr. Anurag Yadav, Special Secretary of the Department of Horticulture and Food Processing Mr. O.P. Verma, Director Dr. V.B. Dwivedi, Director of Agriculture Dr. Jitendra Kumar Tomar, Principal Scientist at CISH Dr. Sushil Shukla, IIVR Varanasi’s Dr. Anant Bahadur Singh, and other officials.
These decisions are expected to significantly enhance the expansion and successful implementation of horticultural schemes in the state, benefiting farmers with better access to advanced techniques and resources.
