India Unveils Pioneering Pest Management Research Hub to Boost Sustainable Agriculture
Union Minister Inaugurates National Integrated Pest Management Research Center
"Maintaining soil quality is crucial; it's the foundation of our life," says the Union Minister.
A Call to Action: Building a New India with Farmers
New Delhi, 28 February 2024 – The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in New Delhi celebrated the inauguration of the research and administrative building for the National Integrated Pest Management Research Center today. The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Tribal Affairs, Arjun Munda, led the ceremony. Munda emphasized the center's vital role in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for combating pests and diseases in crops. He highlighted the potential benefits to the nation, expressing hope for crops free from disease and reduced chemical and pesticide use, underlining the importance of soil quality.
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Munda stressed the importance of collaborating with food providers to forge a new India, aspiring for complete self-reliance in food grain production by 2047 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. He reflected on the successes of natural and organic farming, contrasting it with past challenges of food grain production met by the Green Revolution. However, he noted past oversights that have led to soil degradation, underscoring the current government's focus on self-reliance, nutrition, and soil health.
In an era of decreasing water levels and emerging agricultural challenges, Munda called for innovative solutions and a united effort towards sustainable practices. He envisioned a prosperous India where farmers thrive, women and youth are empowered, and the underprivileged gain security, marking 75 years of independence with innovation across various sectors.
Munda also highlighted legislative efforts to empower women in agriculture through the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, alongside initiatives like Self Help Groups, FPOs, and the Sahakar Se Samdhi Abhiyan campaign for a harmonious family life through climate action and soil protection. The Prime Minister Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme aims to bolster farmers' incomes, with a significant transfer of Rs 21 thousand crore to farmers' bank accounts announced.
The event featured speeches from the Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Kailash Choudhary, South Delhi MP Ramesh Bidhuri, and Dr Himanshu Pathak, Secretary, DARE and Director General, ICAR. Dr Tilak Raj Sharma, Deputy Director General (Crop Science) of ICAR, welcomed attendees, while Dr Subhash Chandra, the center's Director, expressed gratitude. The ceremony was attended by Dr AK Singh, Director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, ADG Dr DK Yadav, ICAR officials, directors of ICAR institutions, public figures, farmers, and local residents.