Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 3: 30th Annual Group Meeting of All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Rapeseed Mustard commenced today at SKUAST-Jammu.
Dr B N Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu was the chief guest on the occasion and Dr Sanjeev Gupta, ADG (Oilseeds & Pulses), ICAR, New Delhi was the guest of honour.
In his address, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu highlighted the pressing challenges posed by the projected population growth. To meet the growing demand for essential food items, including oilseeds, pulses, vegetables, fruits, dairy products and meat, he stressed the need for substantial improvement in agricultural practices, increased productivity and sustainable farming techniques. The Vice Chancellor emphasized that technological interventions and sustainable farming practices enhancing productivity while minimizing environmental impact must be embraced by all stakeholders.
Addressing the alarming deficit in oilseed production, the Vice Chancellor highlighted that the country currently faces over 60 percent annual demand shortfall. Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory also reported a deficit in total oilseed production by over 70 percent.
The Vice Chancellor appreciated the recent sanction of 31 crore project by the Jammu and Kashmir Government, focusing on the promotion of oilseeds under the “Holistic Agricultural Development Project (HADP).” This collaborative effort with the SKUAST-Jammu in the Union Territory aims to overcome the shortage of oilseeds in J&K-UT in the next 3-5 years in a phased manner.
During the meeting, Dr Sanjeev Gupta, ADG (Oilseeds & Pulses), ICAR, New Delhi, emphasized the significance of oilseed production and the challenges and opportunities in the sector. He mentioned that ICAR is actively collaborating with NITI Aayog to set challenges and goals for the year 2047.
Dr R K Samnotra, Director Research, SKUAST-Jammu highlighted the potential of the Jammu region for rapeseed mustard cultivation, with a productivity potential of more than 17 quintals in irrigated areas and 14-16 quintals in rainfed areas.
Earlier Dr P K Rai, Director, ICAR DRMR Bharatpur presented crops status and research highlights of the program for the year 2022-23 and also presented Annual Report of AICRP (R&M).
Dr Vivek Arya, Associate Professor, Soil Science, conducted proceedings of the programme and vote of thanks was delivered by Dr S K Rai, Sr Scientist and Organising Secretary.
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