The Vice Chancellor of the Horticulture University, D. Maheswar said that the research for coming out with two new high yielding and pest resistant varieties of Capsicum and Marigold flower is in its advanced stage.
This will go a long way in increasing the income levels of the horticulture farmers.
Addressing a press conference in Kalaburagi on Thursday Dr. Maheswar said that the scientists in the University, after the successful trials in the laboratory, are now conducting field trials in the University campus and the initial results are encouraging.
He said that with a view to reach out to the horticulture farmers elsewhere in the state and popularising horticulture, the University has proposed to establish Horticulture Information Centre and Farmers Research Centre in Kalaburagi, Yadgir and Bidar. A proposal in this regard has been submitted to the state government for approval.
'Mega Horticulture Fair' in Bagalkot
To a question, Dr. Maheswar said that the University located at Bagalkot has started a new diploma course in Grapes production and processing of wine this academic year and the response from the students has been encouraging. As many as 20 students have taken admission in the first year of the diploma course.
He said that the University was organising the “Mega Horticulture Fair” in the University campus at Bagalkot from December 12 to 15 to be inaugurated by the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on December 13.
Agriculture Minister Krishna Byregowda and Horticulture Minister Shamanur Shivashankarappa would also be participating.
The major thrust of the fair would be to disseminate the technical know-how on horticulture and allied enterprises to the farmers and exhibiting the latest advances made in horticulture cultivation.
The theme of the fair is “Mechanisation for prosperity”. On all the four days the scientists of the University would be present at the fair for providing the necessary inputs to the visiting farmers.
During the fair, Dr. Maheswar said that the University would give away the Best Innovator Award, Best Innovator Award – for students (farm machinery) and Best Livestock Breed Award.
Technical sessions on priority areas including rain water harvesting, efficient use of water, recent advances made in Grape and Pomegranate production, hi-tech horticulture, and other subjects would also be held during the fair. Another feature of the fair was the exhibition of cattle, sheep, goat and dogs organised on all the three days.
