Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala has called for a transformation of agri-food systems through scientific innovations in view of the increasing food demand, environmental degradation and the challenges posed by climate change. He was speaking after inaugurating the 16th Agricultural Science Congress (ASC) in Kochi today.
In his address, Rupala emphasized the need for increased mechanization in agricultural production and the development and popularization of specialized farm implements for women in agriculture. The Minister also shared his concerns about the detrimental impact of marine and inland water pollution on aquatic life and coastal ecosystems, urging scientists to find sustainable solutions to this pressing issue.He also highlighted the need to promote traditional farm products such as Pokkali rice and ensure profitability for the Pokkali farmers.
As part of the event, he inaugurated the Agri Expo, showcasing innovative agricultural technologies from public and private sector research institutes, universities, agro-industries, extension agencies, and NGOs. Additionally, the Union Minister presented awards, including the Dr. B.P. Pal Award for Excellence in Agricultural Sciences and the Dr. A.B. Joshi Memorial Lecture Award.
India’s food grain demand will rise to 340-355 metric tonne by 2033: Dr. Himanshu Pathak
Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary to the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) delivered the presidential address. He said that India’s food grain demand is projected to increase to 340-355 metric tonne by 2033. He added that research on genomics and genome editing would be the core focus for technological breakthroughs in agriculture and commodities where traditional breeding cannot yield the desired results.
Addressing the occasion, Kerala Agriculture Minister P Prasad stressed on ensuring food and nutritional security for all the citizen of the country, while maintaining the health of the ecosystem and environment intact. He said that the ‘Poshaka Samrudhi’ scheme recently launched by the government of Kerala will contribute towards this goal.
The minister also said that it is the time to turn to carbon neutral development pathways, and focus on newer technologies to augment production, adding that post-harvest sector also needs urgent attention.
The four-day ASC is being organised by the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) and hosted by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). Over 1500 delegates from India and abroad are attending the event.
