VC highlights importance of organic farming at 2-day seed spices seminar

A two-day seminar on “Seed Spices: Challenges and Opportunities” was recently inaugurated at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (HAU).

The seminar was organised by the Department of Vegetable Science.

Vice-Chancellor BR Kamboj was the chief guest at the event. The seminar was attended by researchers and officers of the Horticulture Department, farmers, and scientists from the Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

In his address, Kamboj emphasised the need to develop high-quality vegetable varieties to ensure better public health.

He highlighted the importance of organic farming, drip irrigation and pest management, urging scientists to work more efficiently in these areas.

Along with increasing production, he stressed the need to maintain seed quality to prevent any adverse health effects. The event was moderated by Dr Vijaypal Panghal, a senior scientist of the department.

The VC called for the promotion of natural farming among farmers.

He encouraged collaboration to tackle challenges such as climate change, and emphasised adopting modern agricultural practices to boost farmers’ incomes.

Training farmers and producing high-quality, disease-free plants could enhance vegetable production, he added. He stressed the importance of processing vegetables post-harvest to make vegetable farming more profitable.

He urged farmers to form groups and work collectively under the farmer-producer organisation (FPO) model, and directed officials to provide training on vegetable and spice farming techniques. During a field visit, Kamboj inspected crops such as garlic, fennel, onions and coriander.

Research Director Dr Rajbir Garg said, by shifting from traditional crops to spice and vegetable farming, farmers could significantly improve their financial condition.

He advised farmers to use high-quality seeds and advanced techniques to enhance production.

Dr SK Tehlan, Head, Department of Vegetable Science, welcomed all attendees and provided insights into departmental activities.

The seminar also witnessed the participation of officers and staff from the Horticulture Department (Hisar).