Latest news with #IndianInstituteofHorticulturalResearch
Time of India
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Centre plans stricter law against counterfeit farm inputs including pesticides and seeds
Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at the ICAR, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR) campus in Bengaluru BENGALURU: The Centre will soon introduce a stricter law to address the issue of spurious pesticides, non-genuine seeds, and counterfeit fertilisers, said Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. He was speaking to farmers at the ICAR – Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR) campus on Sunday as part of the ongoing 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan'. This initiative aims to connect scientists with farmers under the Centre's 'lab to land' programme. It was his first visit to South India during the campaign, which began on May 29. 'Those who are involved in selling fake seeds and pesticides will be severely punished,' said Chouhan, referring to several complaints by farmers in many states. The farmers' concerns were highlighted in a 2015 study by Ficci, which revealed the loss of over 10 million tonnes of food production due to the use of spurious pesticides that year. It also showed that the value of fake pesticides was growing at 20% per year, with states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Haryana, and Karnataka being among the worst affected. Although the sale of fake or substandard seeds, pesticides, and fertilisers is a punishable offence under existing laws, the absence of proper monitoring and accountability does not yield the desired results on the ground. The new law is expected to address these enforcement gaps. During his speech, Chouhan also promised to introduce a scheme to reduce farmers' transportation costs for tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. This would ensure they receive a fair price for their produce without losing money to middlemen who take a significant cut in delivering the farm produce to the desired destination. Under the scheme, the Centre will collaborate with states to bear the transport costs, involving agencies that procure from farmers and deliver the produce to markets in other states. The minister's farm visits to rural areas near Bengaluru on Sunday were part of the fortnight-long campaign to connect with farmers and gather first-hand information on their day-to-day farm-related problems. 'The central govt will collaborate with states, Agricultural Universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), farmers, and scientists to draw a comprehensive roadmap to improve farming operations and achieve the goal of developing India as the world's food basket,' said Chouhan while addressing the gathering of farmers and farm scientists. He stated that the 'Abhiyan' envisions 'One Nation, One Agriculture, One Team' to work for the farmers' interests. In Karnataka, more than 70 interdisciplinary teams comprising scientists and officials from agriculture and allied departments have been visiting farms daily since May 29. These teams are recording feedback directly from farmers to shape need-based, problem-oriented agricultural research programmes.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Monsoon rains drown crops, raise vegetable prices
Pune: The incessant early monsoon rainfall in most southern states has damaged vegetable crops, jacking up the prices of tomatoes 30-40% in the wholesale markets in the last fortnight and they are likely to increase further after 2-3 weeks, said experts. The heavy rainfall has also damaged the vegetable crops standing in the fields. The prices of the damaged vegetables have crashed, while the slightly better qualities fetch higher rates, said market functionaries. "The impact of the damages inflicted on the plants by the heavy rainfall will be seen in the output and prices after 3 to 4 weeks," said Ajay Belhekar, a tomato farmer from Junnar, Pune. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning For Working Professionals. BITS Pilani WILP Apply Now Undo Data from Agmarknet shows that prices of tomatoes have increased by 10% to 25% in states like Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra in the past one week. At the wholesale markets in Nashik and Pune, tomato prices have almost doubled in the last month. Prices of leafy greens like methi, spinach and coriander have also increased by 12% to 16%. The pre-monsoon showers are expected to adversely affect all vegetable crops in their different stages of growth. Live Events "The vegetables, which are currently in vegetative growth phase can be affected due to excess rainfall as it affects the nutrient uptake and root growth," said HC Prasanna, principal scientist at Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR).
The Hindu
13-05-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Koppal's fair showcases region's mango diversity
The eagerly awaited Mango Fair 2025, a 10-day exhibition and sale of different varieties of mangoes, was inaugurated on the premises of the Department of Horticulture in Koppal on Tuesday. K. Raghavendra Hitnal, Koppal MLA, who inaugurated the event, praised the efforts of the Horticulture Department for successfully organising the annual mango fair for the last nine years to support farmers and promote local produce. 'The Horticulture Department and the Koppal administration have been organising the mela for the last nine years to encourage farmers to cultivate mangoes and provide a market for the fruit. I appreciate it. Horticulture crops are more beneficial compared to agricultural crops. Farmers must switch to horticulture crops, especially mango cultivation. Mango is cultivated on around 6,000 hectares of land in the district and it needs to be further expanded,' Mr. Hitnal said. The fair drew large crowds of farmers, horticulture enthusiasts, students, and consumers from across the region. The festival served as a vibrant platform for celebrating the diversity and richness of mango cultivation in Karnataka. The fair featured over 100 different mango varieties, including both indigenous and hybrid types such as Alphonso, Dasheri, Mallika, Totapuri, Kesar, and Raspuri. The Miyazaki mango, also known as Taiyo no Tamago or Egg of the Sun, which was considered to be the world's costliest mango typically priced at ₹2.5 to ₹3 lakh per kg, was also put on display. Mango pickles are also put on exhibition and sale at the fair. Exhibitors from various districts, including Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Bidar, Raichur, Ballari, and Vijayapura, participated, showcasing the remarkable biodiversity of mangoes cultivated in Karnataka. Over 30 stalls were put for the exhibition. Technical support was provided by the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru, which conducted demonstrations on grafting techniques, organic practices, and 'En-Ripe'—a safe method for natural mango ripening. Experts also offered consultations to farmers on improving yield and quality, as well as guidance on expanding their market and exploring export possibilities. Banners were put up and leaflets were distributed to sensitise the consumers on the nutrition available in mangoes. Koppal Kesar Mango, the popular variety of mango grown in Koppal district, was in high demand on the first day of the fair. The boxes for packing these mangoes are provided to farmers under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.
India.com
21-04-2025
- India.com
Know How To Spend A Day Exploring Bengaluru's Botanical Gardens
Bengaluru encompasses the Indian title 'Garden City of India' due to its abundant natural vegetation and diverse plant life. People who love nature can find peaceful retreats from city chaos at each one of the botanical gardens throughout the city. People who live in Bengaluru as well as visitors to the city discover restoration and knowledge through visiting these botanical gardens across one day. A detailed plan follows to optimize your visit of Bengaluru's botanical gardens throughout an entire day. 1. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden Immediately After Sunrise Lalbagh Botanical Garden stands as a famous green space in Bengaluru that covers 240 acres of land. Tipu Sultan together with his father the first Hyder Ali established this botanical garden in 1760 before implementing expansions which added approximately 1,800 plant species including unique specimens from across the world. Catch the first light of day in this location for a peaceful start that brings near-perfect weather conditions. The Glass House based on Crystal Palace design shows flower displays when it hosts shows for both Republic Day and Independence Day weekends. Yere walk the maintained paths while marveling at rocks and enjoy quiet contemplation at the Lalbagh Lake. 2. Experience the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) by visiting it. The next destination after Lalbagh should be the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) which rests in Hessarghatta. The research institute functions as a public botanical garden apart from conducting its scientific operations. The Indian Institute of Horticultural Research encompasses large lands where visitors can see thousands of fruit trees and medicinal plants and ornamental flowers along with vegetable plants. The most notable feature of this garden includes its demonstration plots alongside experimental fields that demonstrate sustainable horticulture techniques. This location creates an excellent environment for people interested in plant science and agricultural studies. 3. Explore Cubbon Park's Hidden Treasures Nature lovers should include a visit to Cubbon Park as it stands alongside botanical gardens even though it does not strictly qualify as one. The large 300-acre land mass of this park includes structured lawns combined with abundant trees as well as specialty garden zones such as the Bamboo Garden and Rose Garden. Walkers who visit the park can enjoy paths among tall mahogany trees, sandalwood, rain trees and more. Look for the aquarium facility within the park's grounds if you have the opportunity and use it to enjoy your meal while safeguarded by ancient banyan trees. 4. Venture to Nandi Hills to experience its tranquil botanical features Take a weekend journey to Nandi Hills which lies roughly sixty kilometres outside Bengaluru for visiting. Visitors are drawn to Nandi Hills mainly because of its panoramic vistas and historical attractions yet they discover abundant natural variety inside the region. The native vegetation of shrubs and flowering plants as well as medicinal herbs covers the hilltops. The first light of day reveals a remarkable sunrise spectacle which mists hide from view across the landscapes. Birdwatchers should search for migrating feathered creatures which visit this specific location. 5. Relax at GKVK Campus Gardens Many botanical gardens within the Gandhi Krishi Vigyan Kendra (GKVK) campus serve as additional sites for exploration. Facilities designed for agricultural teaching at these gardens provide pleasure to all kinds of visitors. The main attractions of the gardens at GKVK Campus include the Aromatic Plants Garden together with the Medicinal Plants Garden as well as the Ornamental Plants Section. The sections give information about how different plant species promote uses and provide advantages. This peaceful setting stands as an ideal spot to relax following exploration of the tourist sites throughout the day. 6. Spend your leisure time relaxing at Bannerghatta National Park's Butterfly Park The Bannerghatta National Park contains the Butterfly Park in addition to its wildlife safaris as well as other attractions for visitors within its grounds. The conservatory serves as habitat for different butterfly species together with host plants which foster their survival. The netted passage creates a multispectral impression that shifts attendees into a colorful world. Both families and photography enthusiasts can find a distinctive attraction at this destination due to its combination of botanical gardens with the main experience. 7. Wonderla Amusement Park offers its green spaces as a perfect place to spend your evening. The day ends at Wonderla Amusement Park found in Bidadi near the location. Wonderla Amusement Park offers its visitors both thrilling rides and well-organized garden landscapes that offer rest following a botanical discovery tour. Take a pleasant stroll through orderly hedges alongside flower beds while you take time to enjoy various enjoyable activities. You can finish your day on a memorable note when nature combines with entertainment at the location. Tips for Maximizing Your Experience Put on walking-friendly footwear since most places demand foot movement. Hydration and energy maintenance becomes crucial because you should bring both water and snacks for continuous refreshment during the day. Advice to review operational schedules before visiting since some gardens limit their entry times along with needing pre-event permissions. Preserve the beauty of these gardens by showing respect to Nature through Uncategorized actions that both avoid wild animal disturbance and flower plucking. A camera will help you record and preserve both floral displays and natural scenery from your visit. Visiting Bengaluru's botanical gardens offers more than beautiful flower admiration because it allows visitors to connect with nature together with ecosystem education and recognition of the city's dedication to green preservation. This schedule will allow you to explore Bengaluru's natural landscapes and achieve a rejuvenating outdoor day alongside understanding the area's natural treasures.
