ICRAHOR 2024: Driving Technological Revolution in Horticulture at Amity University's Int’l Conference

Amidst concerns over dwindling resources and climate change impacting traditional food production, Amity University hosted the 2nd International Conference on Recent Advances in Horticulture Research (ICRAHOR-2024) on February 15th and 16th, 2024. The conference, held at the F1 Seminar Hall, brought together experts from various fields to explore innovative solutions to global food and nutritional security challenges.

Technological Advancements Drive Horticultural Sector Forward

The horticulture industry, with its potential to enhance food production through technological interventions, took center stage at ICRAHOR-2024. Participants witnessed groundbreaking advancements in high-tech greenhouse horticulture, ranging from sensor technology and energy solutions to robotics and production technologies. These innovations promise to revolutionize horticultural practices, offering more sustainable and efficient methods of cultivation.

Harnessing Digitalization for Future Growth

Digitalization emerged as a key driver of change in the horticulture sector. The integration of automated, networked systems allows for remote management of gardens, enabling stakeholders to monitor and control conditions from afar. Moreover, the utilization of machine learning and big data management facilitates the extraction of valuable insights from plant development data, further enhancing productivity and efficiency.

Objectives & Themes of ICRAHOR-2024

ICRAHOR-2024 aimed to foster audacious initiatives and creative strategies to transform the horticultural landscape. The conference outlined several objectives, including:

• Providing a framework for utilizing horticulture products to enhance food and nutritional security.

• Exploring advancements in nanotechnology, high-tech horticulture, and molecular techniques.

• Introducing cutting-edge concepts such as robotics, big data, and vertical farming.

• Encouraging ambitious research projects and start-up initiatives within the horticultural community.

The event's focus areas spanned various themes, including technological advances, the role of AI, post-harvest management, urban/backyard farming, and success stories in horti-entrepreneurship.

Successful Inauguration and Notable Speakers

The inaugural day of ICRAHOR-2024 witnessed resounding success, with participants engaging in both hybrid and online modes. Founder Dr. Ashok K Chauhan unveiled ‘Mission Horticulture,’ underscoring the conference's commitment to driving industry transformation. Despite a parallel engagement, Dr. Sudhakar Pandey ADG Horticulture joined online, highlighting the event's global reach.

By showcasing cutting-edge technologies and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, the conference laid the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable future in food production and agricultural practices. As global challenges continue to mount, events like ICRAHOR-2024 play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of the horticultural industry.