MLC Kancharla Srikanth demonstrating a farm equipment at the inauguration of a training session for agriculture scientists, at the Centre of Excellence in Kuppam in Chittoor district on Wednesday.
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in-charge for Kuppam Assembly constituency and MLC Kancharla Srikanth said that Kuppam is recognised as the country’s premier zone for research in agriculture and horticulture practices through the Centre of Excellence (CoE) utilising Israeli technology. The MLC on Wednesday inaugurated the first batch of the awareness programme at the CoE, jointly organised by the Horticulture Mission of Andhra Pradesh and the Israel Embassy in New Delhi.
The programme comprises 40 government horticulture officials from 12 States, who are receiving comprehensive training on plant protection issues, led by expert trainers. The curriculum includes topics such as mulching, drip irrigation, advanced cultivation methods, nursery practices, grafting techniques within poly houses, and innovative crop cultivation strategies.
The attendees included Uri Rubin Steen, Agriculture Attaché from the Indo-Israel Embassy in New Delhi; Project Officer Brahmadev, District Horticulture Officer Madhusudan Reddy and District APMIP Officer Balasubramaniam.
Mr. Srikanth highlighted the importance of hosting international experts at the horticulture hub in Kuppam for research advancements. He praised the Chief Minister’s vision of establishing a horticulture hub in this remote region, which has facilitated innovation and elevated the hub’s status to a national level.
He said that farmers, who previously depended on traditional cropping methods, are now achieving improved income by diversifying their crop production. The government, he asserted, is prepared to endorse various experimental initiatives to assist farmers.
The MLC proposed plans to develop training opportunities for students and reaffirmed the commitment to establishing a horticulture university in the region. He also said that a proposal for the creation of an airport in Kuppam is in progress to streamline the transportation of vegetables, fruits and flowers to other regions.
A unique technique demonstrated at the CoE includes the grafting of different plant species. Moreover, food processing units are being established to provide comprehensive support to farmers. Horticulture officials also shared their strategies with the delegates from various countries.
Published – December 04, 2024 07:05 pm IST