Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya on Wednesday emphasized that scientific research and innovation will play a crucial role in strengthening food security and paving the way for a self-reliant and developed India.
He was addressing the inauguration of a four-day international conference on “Pathogens, Plant Health and Food Security: Climate Resilient Agriculture and Landscape Conservation” at Amity University Lucknow, where he attended as the chief guest and formally launched the event with a ceremonial lamp lighting.
During the programme, Maurya released a book titled “Pathogens, Plant Health and Food Security” and honoured eminent scientists from across the country with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their outstanding contributions. The event also brought together leading researchers, academicians, and policymakers to deliberate on sustainable agriculture and food security.
In his address, Maurya highlighted that food security extends beyond production and includes storage, cold chain infrastructure, processing, quality, and effective marketing. He noted that despite Uttar Pradesh’s vast agricultural potential, farmers often face losses due to inadequate storage facilities, lack of value addition, and insufficient market linkages.
Calling upon scientists and researchers, he urged the development of technologies to safeguard crops against natural disasters such as unseasonal rains and hailstorms. He stressed the need to shift focus from quantity to quality to make Indian agricultural products globally competitive.
Maurya also pointed to ongoing infrastructure development in the state, stating that Uttar Pradesh has made significant progress in road, rail, and air connectivity, helping attract investment and boost economic growth. He further highlighted initiatives under the leadership of Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath aimed at empowering farmers, youth, and women.
Referring to schemes like One District One Product, he said local products have gained global recognition, while new initiatives such as “One District One Dish” are expected to boost branding and marketing of food products. He added that enhancing value addition in agriculture can significantly increase farmers’ income and generate employment opportunities.
The conference is being jointly organized by the Amity Food and Agriculture Foundation and the Indian Society of Mycology and Plant Pathology, bringing together distinguished scientists to discuss challenges such as climate change, emerging plant diseases, and sustainable farming practices.
Prominent participants included Ashok K. Chauhan, Aseem Chauhan, Prof. Anil Vashishth, Dr. C. D. Mayee, Dr. S. S. Chahal, Prof. Pokhar Rawal, Dr. Lalit Mahatma, and Dr. D. R. Singh, among others.
Experts at the conference stressed the importance of integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, genomics, and drone-based solutions to tackle agricultural challenges and ensure long-term food and nutritional security.
The event concluded its inaugural session with a formal vote of thanks, setting the stage for in-depth discussions over the next four days on sustainable agriculture, plant health, and food security.
