Be job providers, not job seekers: VC to farmers

Our Correspondent

Palampur, November 25

Prof Ashok Kumar Sarial, Vice-Chancellor, CSK HP Agriculture University, inaugurated a month-long training programme on “Job Role of Small Poultry Farmers” at Dr GC Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (COVAS) here today.

Addressing 20 farmer trainees, the Vice-Chancellor said promising schemes to encourage farming and farm enterprises had been launched by the Central and state governments. Progressive farmers should come forward to avail the benefits of these.

He exhorted them to become job providers, not job seekers. The university was making efforts to attract young farmers.

Sarial said the university had developed 20 farm and animal husbandry-based models and advised the farmers to make use of the special training as the government was spending huge sums.

University scientists would visit some trainees after a few months to see the progress. The farmers were told to be in touch with scientists at the university or its Krishi Vigyan Kendras at the district level to seek timely help and guidance.

Dr Yash Pal Thakur, director, Extension Education, said that backyard poultry had a good potential. “It is helpful for providing additional income to the farmers. Sixteen training programmes, sponsored by the Agricultural Skill Council of India, will be organised by the university,” he added.

Dr Mandeep Sharma, Dean, COVAS, said “Karaknath” breed of poultry had been adopted by some progressive farmers, adding that the university had developed “Him Samridhi” poultry breed.