Climate change major challenge faced by agri sector: Yeddyurappa

He asks varsities to develop drought-resistant food crops

B.S. Yeddyurappa, Shivamogga MP, handing over the prize to the winnerof the best stall at the Krishi Mela in Shivamogga on Tuesday.— Photo: VAIDYA

B.S. Yeddyurappa, Shivamogga MP and national vice-president of BJP, urged the government to purchase power from neighbouring States and from private power companies.

In the past, when the State faced power crises due to deficient rainfall, the government would enter into agreements in advance to purchase power.

The State government should earmark ample funds to purchase power and ensure that transmission corridors and lines are reserved in this regard, he said, at the valedictory of Krishi Mela, organised by University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences (UAHS), Shivamogga, on Tuesday.

Agricultural activities had received a serious setback in the State owing to power crises. Farmers were suffering from losses owing to fluctuations in the price of their produce and inconsistent climate.

Mixed cropping would insure the farmers against loss. Farmers can enhance their income by growing multiple crops on a plot of land and agricultural scientists should provide guidance to them, Mr. Yeddyurappa said.

Climate change had posed a major challenge for the agriculture sector.

In the event of deficient rainfall, farmers should cultivate pulses and oil seeds that require less water. Agricultural universities should develop drought-resistant varieties of food crops and popularise them to counter the challenges posed by climate change, the MP said.

Addressing the gathering, C.M. Ibrahim, deputy chairman of Karnataka State Planning Board, called upon farmers in Malnad region to take up apiculture. Honey produced in the vicinity of Western Ghats is known for its distinct taste and has great demand in the Middle East.

Mr. Ibrahim urged the UAHS administration to organise similar krishi melas at the taluk level to reach out to more farmers and to keep them updated on the latest innovations.

B.Y. Raghavendra, Shikaripur MLA, said the State government had allotted 800 acres of land near Iruvakki in Sagar taluk for the new campus, UAHS, Shivamogga.

An estimated amount of Rs. 300 crore was necessary to set up the new campus, he said, while requesting the government to release the funds at the earliest.

C. Vasudevappa, Vice-Chancellor of UAHS, Shivamogga, was present.