Trainees Observe Technological Models, Crop Demonstrations, and Value Chain Facilities
Hawalbagh (Almora) Correspondent – A one-day field exposure-cum-training program on the theme of Mountain Agriculture was organized on 30th June 2025 at the ICAR-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan (ICAR-VPKAS), Hawalbagh for Indian Administrative Service (IAS) trainee officers. The objective of this program was to provide an administrative perspective on the challenges, opportunities, and innovations in hill agriculture.
The IAS trainee officers Snehil Kumar Singh, Dr. Harshita Singh, and Anshul Bhatt, from the Uttarakhand Academy of Administration, Nainital, participated in the program. The event was coordinated by Dr. Kushagra Joshi, who welcomed the participants and outlined the day’s agenda.
The program was inaugurated by the Director of the institute, Dr. Laxmi Kant, who gave a detailed presentation on the historical background of the institute, ongoing research activities, current status and challenges of hill agriculture, and future prospects. He emphasized how trainee officers can contribute to rural development by formulating agriculture-based development schemes in their respective districts.
Dr. Nirmal Kumar Hedau, Head of the Crop Improvement Division, discussed the improved varieties of hill crops and potential for quinoa and asafoetida (hing) cultivation. Dr. Krishna Kant Mishra, Head of the Crop Protection Division, provided insights into pest and disease management techniques relevant to mountain agriculture.
Dr. Brij Mohan Pandey (Crop Production Division) shared success stories of tribal sub-plan initiatives in marginal areas. Dr. Kushagra Joshi discussed models of socio-economic research and information dissemination. Dr. Rajesh Khulbe provided insights into successful models of millet (mandua) and barnyard millet (ugal) promotion in the northeastern states.
The trainees visited the institute’s museum, mechanization workshop, and millet value chain facilities to gain practical exposure. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kushagra Joshi.
This initiative proved to be a valuable step in helping IAS trainees understand the significance of agricultural research in mountainous regions and its integration into administrative planning and policy-making.
