Awareness Campaign on Crop Diversification Held at ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research

In a concerted effort towards enhancing agricultural sustainability and resilience, an awareness program on 'Crop Diversification' was organized today at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research (ICAR-IIFSR), Modipuram, Meerut, under the aegis of the LiFE Mission.

The event, graced by Smt. Shubha Thakur, Additional Secretary, Government of India, as the Chief Guest, marked a significant step towards advocating for diversified farming practices in the country.

Addressing the gathering, Smt. Thakur underscored the necessity of embracing crop diversification as a response to the evolving agricultural landscape. She emphasized the remarkable surge in grain production witnessed in the past few decades and stressed the imperative of adapting to changing environmental dynamics. Notably, she urged farmers to integrate oilseeds and pulses into their crop rotations, highlighting that India presently imports approximately 40% of its edible oil. Smt. Thakur particularly advocated for the adoption of inter-cropping techniques, especially in sugarcane cultivation, to facilitate crop diversification.

Dr. Sunil Kumar, Director of ICAR-IIFSR, shed light on a pioneering pilot project aimed at augmenting crop diversity in 75 districts across the nation. The project, he explained, seeks to ensure food security, nutritional enhancement, and livelihood sustenance for farmers while reducing reliance on external markets. Dr. Kumar elaborated on the project's emphasis on educating farmers about innovative farming system models tailored to meet future challenges.

A total of 55 farmers from five villages, who were enlisted under various research programs, actively participated in the event. They were provided with essential inputs for Kharif crops as part of the institute's efforts to bolster agricultural productivity and sustainability.

The event served as a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on the critical need for crop diversification in Indian agriculture, offering insights into practical strategies and initiatives aimed at fostering a resilient and prosperous farming community.

The endeavors of stakeholders, including policymakers, agricultural researchers, and farmers, underscored a shared commitment to transforming India's agricultural landscape through sustainable and diversified farming practices.