A three-day professional training programme, sponsored by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Japan, began on Sunday at the vegetable section of Kanpur’s Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology. The programme, inaugurated by the university’s vice-chancellor Anand Kumar Singh, aims to promote sustainable farming practices and enhance women’s participation in the agriculture sector.
In his address, Singh highlighted the pressing need to reduce agrochemical use in agriculture, citing the harmful effects of excessive chemical use on soil, air, groundwater, and the health of all living beings. He emphasized the importance of adopting alternatives to agrochemicals and low-input techniques in vegetable cultivation.
The vice-chancellor introduced the Japanese IMEC Film Farming hydroponic system, a technology that enables the production of high-quality cherry tomatoes using minimal water and fertilisers, without any agrochemicals. He noted that the Total Soluble Solids (TSS) level, which indicates sweetness, in cherry tomatoes produced using this technique is nearly double that of conventionally grown tomatoes. This not only improves the quality of the produce but also opens up opportunities for farmers to fetch higher market prices.
Hiroshi Yoshioka, CEO of Mebiol Inc., Japan, expressed his gratitude to the university for organizing the training programme. He stated that the IMEC Film Farming technology could help establish agriculture-based businesses by enabling farmers to grow high-value crops with better market prices.
The programme director, P.K. Singh, outlined the training’s objective to enhance women’s participation in the agriculture sector and promote agriculture-based economies by developing their skills. The training includes 12 lectures by scientists from various research institutions across the country and four practical exercises, providing participants with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
The event was attended by various university officials, including the dean of the faculty of community science, the director of extension, and the dean of the horticulture faculty. Additionally, 35 progressive farmers, young entrepreneurs, and research students from various districts of the state participated in the programme.
This training programme signifies a step towards sustainable agriculture and women’s empowerment in the sector. By introducing innovative technologies like the IMEC Film Farming hydroponic system and promoting low-input techniques, the programme aims to create a more sustainable and profitable agricultural sector. Moreover, by focusing on women’s participation, the programme seeks to foster inclusive growth and development in the agriculture-based economy.
The implications of this training programme are far-reaching. By adopting sustainable farming practices, farmers can improve the quality of their produce, reduce environmental pollution, and enhance their livelihoods. Furthermore, the programme’s focus on women’s participation can lead to more inclusive and equitable growth in the agriculture sector, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the rural economy.