PGR conservation workshop cum-diversity fair organized in Jaunsar-Bawar region of Dehradun, Uttarakhand

The ICAR-NBAGR, New Delhi has organized a Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Awareness Workshop cum-Diversity Fair on 29th April, 2019 at Jadi village in Jaunsar-Bawar region of Dehradun, Uttarakhand under TSP Scheme. Over 150 tribal farmers of Jaunsar-Bawar region have attended the Workshop. Dr. KC Bhatt, Principal Scientist, ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi welcomed the participating farmers and scientist experts for their benign presence in the workshop. Dr. RS Rathi, Principal Scientist, ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi explained about the purpose of workshop. Dr. SP Ahlawat, Head, Division of Plant Exploration and Germplasm Collection, ICAR-NBPGR, New Delhi has expressed his views on the importance of on-farm management of crop landraces in view of changes in traditional agriculture in last 40-50 years due to aftermath of green revolution, developmental activities, impact of climate change, and drastic change in cropping pattern. He emphasized on the need for reviving our old seed chain system and pass on the inherited rich agro-biodiversity to future generations. Dr. SK Malik, Principal Scientist, ICAR, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi also addressed the gathering on importance of integrated farming system, value of diversified agriculture and community seed bank. Dr. JC Rana, Co-ordinator (GEF-Project) Bioversity International, New Delhi emphasized on the nutritional value of local crops and their conservation in traditional agriculture. He stressed upon the use of local crops and food in nutritional and livelihood security. Shri Mahavir Singh, Sarpanch (Siyanaji), Jadi Panchayat, the chief guest of the programme has expressed that we must listen carefully and to adopt the views of scientists on the importance of traditional crop landraces and their on-farm management. Farmers have also interacted with the scientists and discussed their problems pertaining to less rains and snow fall, low productivity and crop infestations. Inputs in form of seed and farm implements were distributed to the tribal farmers. The farmers showed overwhelming response and willingness to cultivate traditional crops, landraces for their consumption. The workshop concluded with the vote of thanks.

(Source: Dr. Sudhir P Ahlawat, Principal Scientist & Head, ICAR-NBPGR,)