ICAR-VPKAS, Almora Hosts Agriculture Industry Stakeholders Regional Consultation Meet

ICAR-VPKAS, Almora, hosted a two-day Agriculture Industry Stakeholders Regional Consultation Meet on January 30-31, 2024. Aimed at bridging the gap between technology development and farmers, the event witnessed the inauguration by Prof Satpal Singh Bisht, Vice-Chancellor of SSJ University, Almora. Notable figures like Dr Praveen Malik, CEO of Agrinnovate India Ltd, and Dr Lakshmi Kant, the institute's Director, graced the occasion. With a focus on collaborative efforts, the meet showcased technologies developed by ICAR Institutes and emphasised the vital connection between agriculture and animal husbandry.

Regional Meet Highlights

The Chief Guest, Prof Satpal Singh Bisht, commended ICAR-VPKAS for its technological advancements. He urged scientists to engage with local communities, addressing mountain-specific challenges and emphasising the integration of animal husbandry with agriculture.

Dr Praveen Malik, in his address, highlighted the impediment to the 'lab to land' program, citing farmers' lack of access to new technologies. He stressed the responsibility of all stakeholders in showcasing how these innovations could boost income and save time for farmers, enabling them to diversify into additional income-generating activities.

भाकृअनुप -विवेकानंद पर्वतीय कृषि अनुसंधान संस्थान, अल्मोड़ा में कृषि उद्योग हितधारकों की क्षेत्रीय परामर्श बैठक का उद्घाटन pic.twitter.com/DFRgab98Zc
— ICAR VPKAS (@IVpkas) January 30, 2024
 

Dr N.K. Hedau outlined the purpose of the meet, setting the stage for discussions on the commercialisation of technologies. Dr K.K. Mishra expressed gratitude to the participants, emphasising the importance of collaboration between ICAR/SAUs, Line departments, KVKs, and Industries.

The meet's second day featured a showcase of developed technologies, providing a platform for more than 90 participants from various institutions to interact. The sessions covered the role of Agrinnovate, presentations by ICAR/SAUs on their technologies, and constructive dialogues with stakeholders.

A significant milestone was marked with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ICAR-VPKAS and SSJ University, Almora. The agreement focuses on collaborative research, mutual institute/campus development, and academic programs.