While emphasizing the need for natural farming, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said that adopting this method would not only strengthen the economy of the farmers but also be beneficial for the State.The Governor was speaking on the occasion of 'Kisan Mela' organized by Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni at the Agricultural Science Centre, Sharbo at Kalpa in Kinnaur district here on Tuesday evening.
He said that in the G-20 summit, heads of states of various countries were served millet meals obtained from natural farming in India. “We will have to shift our focus on natural farming and producing natural products so as to consume a nourishing diet”, said Shukla. He said that there was a vast potential for millet farming in the Kinnaur district and the farmers should take advantage of this.
He especially emphasized on encouraging the cultivation of black cumin and asked the scientists of Horticulture University to work in this direction and encourage and train the farmers. He urged the district administration to develop the marketing system and support self-help groups for marketing their produce.
The Governor also honoured the progressive farmers on the occasion and visited the exhibition showcasing natural farm products.Earlier, Dr. Indra Dev, Acting Vice Chancellor of Horticulture University and Director, Extension Education welcomed the Governor and briefed about the activities of the Regional Horticulture Research and Training Center Sharbo.
The progressive farmers also shared their experiences regarding apple farming, women empowerment and agriculture, natural farming, medicinal plants and beekeeping etc. Dr. Ashok Thakur, Co-Director of Sharbo Center presented a vote of thanks.
Earlier, the Governor also visited Vegetable Production Research Center at Kalpa and took stock of high density apple farming. He said that as per the demand, farmers should use the drone technology in the agriculture sector. He said that farmers could get a lot of benefits by using high-density plantation and drone technology.