The Hindu : Karnataka News : Develop high-yield crops, scientists told

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Sep 22, 2004

Karnataka

Karnataka

Develop high-yield crops, scientists told

By Our Staff Reporter

BANGALORE, SEPT. 21. The Minister for Agriculture, K. Srinivasa Gowda, has called upon agricultural scientists to develop crop varieties that give better yield and minimise water consumption.

Mr. Gowda was speaking after felicitating 31 teachers, including those who served in the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) as scientists and research fellows, at a function here today organised by the Teachers' Association of the UAS.

Scientific approach

Referring to the water scarcity and the need to step up crop production, he said the situation could be addressed only with a new scientific approach.

In the context of the scientific and technological advances being made, agricultural scientists should explore methods to augment agricultural production with minimal water consumption and find ways to preserve and dwindling water resources, the Minister said.

`Fieldwork'

Referring to the importance of field experience in agriculture education, Mr. Gowda reiterated that the Government would introduce "fieldwork" as a compulsory practical subject from the next academic year.

The Government would allocate 50 marks for fieldwork and another 50 marks for theory in the respective subjects at the graduate level, the Minister said.

`Institute awards'

Puttanna, an MLC representing teachers, urged the Government to institute annual `Krishi Shikshak awards.'

He also urged agricultural scientists to develop pesticides to protect sugarcane from white mite.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, M.N. Sheelavanthar, presided over the function.

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