105th meeting of Maharashtra Council of Agricultural Education and Research concluded.
Agriculture University should take into account the climate and environmental changes and fix farmer-centred practices: Agriculture Minister Dadaji Bhuse.
Agriculture Universities should coordinate in the interest of the farmers, take into account the climate and environmental changes and work out a farmer-centred approach and work towards making the farmers financially self-sufficient, said Agriculture Minister Dadaji Bhuse.
He was speaking at the 105th meeting of the Maharashtra Council of Agricultural Education and Research held at the Chima Hall of the College of Horticulture.
Mr Bhuse said that taking into account the climate and environmental changes as well as the interests of the farmers, the Agriculture University should make changes in the cropping system by the department. Wild animals are causing a lot of damage to agricultural crops today and a change in cropping patterns is needed. For this, research should be done with the guidance of experts. It takes time to change the curriculum at the university level considering the changing environment.
Farmers are engaged in fish farming in the field and efforts should be made to make the farmers financially viable by guiding the farmers in this regard. Field visits should be planned to convey information to the farmers through the students of the University of Agriculture. The research work done by one university should be used by other universities as well.
The admission process in the Agricultural University should be carried out smoothly in the interest of the students.
The evaluation of Krishi Vidyalaya should be done as per the prescribed criteria. Emphasis should be placed on building infrastructure with economic considerations in mind. Care should be taken not to encroach on the reserved space of Agriculture University and affiliated schools, said Mr Bhuse.
Minister of State for Agriculture Shri. Kadam said the country as well as foreign agricultural research projects should be considered for the benefit of farmers in the state. Use state-of-the-art technology while conducting research at the university level. Considering the serious consequences of future temperature rises, research should be done to change the cropping pattern.
Vice President of Maharashtra Council of Agricultural Education and Research Shri. Abitkar suggested that while taking a decision on agriculture, the decision should be taken keeping in view the geographical conditions of the time, infrastructure, guidelines of the government.
Dr Harihar Kausdikar, Director, Education and Research, Dr. Vitthal Shirke, Director, Extension Education, Dr. Nitin Gokhale, Extension Education and Resources Development Branch and Dr Nitin Gokhale, Joint Director, Administration gave presentations.
