Calling for stronger links between research and the farming community, District in charge Minister R B Thimmapur has asked horticulture scientists to ensure that advanced cultivation and harvesting technologies reach farms instead of remaining within institutions.
He made the remarks while inaugurating the Horticulture Mela at the University of Horticulture Sciences in Bagalkot. “Research and development should not be limited to universities and institutions. They should be taken to farmers to help them achieve better yields and materialise better market prices,” he said.
The minister urged university professors to work closely with them and address their challenges. “Farmers have several problems. They have nowhere to go to seek redress. The university should have a full fledged Raitha Samparka Kendra where they offer counselling services and volunteer to visit the fields of farmers,” he said. He added that the State government would support the setting up of such centres in Bagalkot and other campuses.
MLA Bheemsen Chimmanakatti stressed the need for deeper engagement between the university and farmers. He said efforts should focus on improving soil fertility, increasing crop yields, reducing input costs, simplifying post harvest processing and helping farmers secure better prices. “It is a matter of pride that the University has gained importance at the national level. But farmers should benefit from it,” he said.
Rajya Sabha member Narayanasa Bhandage expressed satisfaction over the growth of the university and appreciated its use of demonstration plots to share knowledge with farmers. He also congratulated farmers who were honoured during the event.
MLC P H Pujar said the climate of Bagalkot and Vijayapura districts is suitable for horticulture and urged the university to guide them in adopting horticulture crops to earn better returns.
MLC Hanamant Nirani advised farmers to make use of various schemes offered by the Union and State governments. He also encouraged them to work collectively and benefit from equipment sharing schemes.
Vice Chancellor Dr Vishunvardhan, Regional Commissioner Janaki K M, Deputy Commissioner Sangappa, Additional Deputy Commissioner Ashok Teli, and university board members including S N Vasudeva, H G Manohar, Anita K V, Thammaiah N, Balaji Kulkarni and Janardhan were among those present.
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