National Seminar Focuses on the Importance of Sustainable Practices and Integration of Advanced Technologies

A two-day National Seminar on Precision Farming Technologies aimed at enhancing the production and productivity of horticultural and forestry crops began on October 23, 2024, at Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni. Organized by the Precision Farming Development Centre (PFDC) within the Soil Science and Water Management Department, in collaboration with the Indian Society of Tree Scientists (ISTS), the seminar attracted 200 participants, including farmers, university scientists, researchers, and experts from various institutions nationwide.

C Paulrasu, Secretary of Horticulture, Himachal Pradesh, was the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony. Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, UHF Vice-Chancellor and Prof. P.K. Khosla, Shoolini University Chancellor and President ISTS were the Guests of Honour.

In his address, C. Paulrasu commended the university and PFDC for their efforts in bringing cutting-edge precision farming technologies to the farmer’s field. He emphasized that agriculture has become a focal point for the government, which is committed to ensuring farmers achieve maximum returns from their farm activities. He encouraged farmers and youth to engage with new technologies and highlighted the government's initiatives promoting natural farming and sustainable practices.

Prof. Chandel pointed out the pressing challenges of water scarcity and land degradation, urging PFDC to align its goals with contemporary agricultural needs. He advocated for the integration of environmentally friendly methodology like natural farming into PFDC's programs, particularly for Himalayan agriculture, and stressed the importance of conducting impact assessments. Prof. Khosla discussed the significance of tree crop-animal forestry for the livelihoods of farmers, recalling the origins of forestry discipline at the UHF.

Earlier in the event, Dr. Uday Sharma, Head of Soil Science and Water Management and Seminar Convenor welcomed attendees and stressed the importance of farmer participation in precision farming for valuable feedback. He informed that the seminar represents a key initiative of a project funded by the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), aimed at promoting the latest agricultural technologies among farmers, scientists, and policy-makers.

Dr. Sanjeev Chauhan, Director of Research, noted that PFDC has developed specific recommendations for micro-irrigation and protected cultivation, along with a comprehensive Package of Practices (POPs) addressing water requirements for fruits, flowers, and vegetables.

The centre has also introduced cost-effective rainwater harvesting solutions through LDPE-lined storage tanks. Over the years, PFDC has organized 70 training programs benefiting around 2,500 farmers and has conducted skill development initiatives for over 200 individuals in greenhouse operation and micro-irrigation.

The PFDC was established in 1995-96 within the Department of Soil Science and Water Management, supported by the National Committee on Precision Agriculture and Horticulture (NCPAH) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India. Its primary objective is to demonstrate the latest horticultural technologies to farmers and stakeholders, including agricultural and horticultural department officials.