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Krishimela 2024 concludes signalling a bright future for Indian agriculture
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Wednesday, 20 November, 2024, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Nandita Vijayasimha, Bengaluru
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Krishimela 2024, despite the rain, signals a bright future for Indian agriculture, as more and more farmers are embracing the tools and techniques that will help them thrive in the face of evolving challenges.
The four-day event held from November 14 to 17, at the 1,320-acre campus of the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) GKVK Campus, with the theme of this year’s event, 'Climate Smart Digital Agriculture', focused on sustainable, innovative practices to tackle climate challenges.
The mela underscored the role of agricultural universities in sparking interest on farming in youth, and driving economic growth in the sector. “There were nearly 700 stalls showcasing innovations aimed at reducing farmers' workloads, such as drones and cultivators.
Karnataka’s Agriculture Minister N Chaluvaraya Swamy highlighted the government’s efforts to encourage the state’s 78 lakh farmers to adopt technology, aided by subsidies. He lauded institutions like "UAS for developing high-yield, low-cost crop varieties to address the challenges of climate change."
The event was a hotspot for showcasing advanced agricultural technologies. From smart irrigation systems and drones for crop monitoring to advancements in soil health management and sustainable farming practices, the Krishimela provided a platform for farmers to witness and engage with the future of farming.
One of the major highlights was the opportunity for farmers to exchange ideas and experiences. The event emphasised the value of peer-to-peer learning, where seasoned farmers shared insights on best practices, crop diversification, and organic farming techniques.
Several interactive sessions were held, where experts in the field of agriculture conducted workshops on topics like crop protection, pest management, soil fertility, and the use of digital tools in farming. Live demonstrations of new machinery and technologies also drew large crowds, showing practical applications of these innovations.
While rain did pose a challenge, it also demonstrated the resilience of the agricultural community. Despite the weather, the participation rate remained high, with farmers and exhibitors staying committed to the event, underscoring the urgency of innovation to adapt to changing weather patterns, especially with the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.
Several government officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, attended the event and pledged more support for the agricultural sector. Corporates and agritech startups also showcased their products and services aimed at improving productivity and sustainability in farming.
There was a significant emphasis on sustainable agriculture this year, with many exhibitors highlighting eco-friendly solutions like bio-based fertilisers, organic pest control methods, and water-efficient irrigation systems. This reflects the broader push for environmentally responsible farming practices, said the participants.
The event has reaffirmed that agricultural innovations are critical in the modern farming landscape, particularly in addressing the challenges of water scarcity, climate change, and the need for increased productivity. With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, the event has paved the way for a more connected and innovative agricultural ecosystem, with farmers gaining access to new knowledge, products, and technologies that can transform their livelihoods, said a section of tech agri companies.
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