Bengaluru: The three-day Triphal diversity show was inaugurated at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesaraghatta here. This event is planned to Showcase a diversity of about 300 mangoes, 100 Jackfruit and 100 Banana genotypes in collaboration with ICAR-National Research Centre for Banana, Trichy, Tamil Nadu, from 31st May 2024 to 02nd June 2024.
Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, DDG (Horticultural Sciences) ICAR-Headquarters, New Delhi, was the chief guest who inaugurated the fair and highlighted the importance of Mango, Jackfruit and Banana for the livelihoods of farmers, socio-economical status, nutritional importance of these fruits, and other multifaceted uses of the fruits. Diversity is a key factor in achieving many milestones of production and productivity in India.
While explaining climate change and its impact on the production of tropical fruits, Dr Singh elaborated on the export potential and necessity to develop and practice SOPs throughout the cycle of crop production and the value chain.
The involvement of literate youth in the production of horticultural crops and extended activities of post-harvest handling, processing and value addition would lead to a potential rise in fruit exports and revenue generation.
He also emphasised international collaborations, especially with the Australian Council for the exchange of faculty and as a part of outreach academic programmes of the council.
Dr. Prakash Patil, Director, IIHR, spoke about the role of ICAR-IIHR and ICAR-NRC, Banana, in the collection, maintenance and improvement of diverse germplasm of Mango, Jackfruit and Banana.
He also highlighted that this particular show is conducted to educate farmers, private stakeholders and public sector organizations for potential collaboration, exchange and improvement of production and value chain to attain the best possible outcomes for enhanced economic returns.
Dr. R. Selvarajan, Director, ICAR-NRC, Banana, Trichy, Tamil Nadu, speaking about cultural, socio-economical and geographical aspects of Banana, said that Banana is regarded as Kalpataru, the whole of its parts utilised in one or the other way as part of our culture, nutrition, and its by-products. India stands first in the production and consumption of bananas with huge export demand and where we have to focus on extending the area and increasing the productivity of bananas.
Ms Harriet white, Vice Consultant from the Australian Consulate, Bengaluru appreciated the efforts of ICAR-IIHR in conducting the Triphal diversity show and emphasised bilateral collaboration between India and Australia for mutual benefits in the field of Agriculture research and education.
Earlier Dr. Shankaran M. organising secretary of this show and HoD, Division of Fruit Crops, welcomed the dignitaries of the function, Dr. Madhavi Reddy, President, SPH, IIHR, Dr. K.B. Dundi, Additional Director Fruits, Government of Karnataka, Dr. Sudarshan. S.D., Executive Director, CDAC and other dignitaries, farmers, entrepreneurs, students and scientists were present during the programme.
On this occasion, seven farmers were awarded custodian farmers for their efforts in conserving Mango, Jackfruit and Banana Genotypes.
Two MoUs were also exchanged and two publications were released.
Inputs and Photos Courtesy: ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesaraghatta
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