ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, successfully organised a "Summer Vegetables Field Day" today at its campus. The programme, themed "Strengthening Partnerships in the Vegetable Seed Sector," witnessed enthusiastic participation from representatives of seed industries, progressive farmers, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
During the field visit, participants were introduced to a diverse range of improved hybrids and open-pollinated varieties of key summer vegetables, including muskmelon, bitter gourd, cucumber, chilli, and tomato. These varieties are recognised for their superior yield potential, quality attributes, and adaptability to varying agro-climatic conditions.
© Indian Council of Agricultural Research
In his address, the Chief Guest, Dr Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, highlighted the critical role of vegetables in ensuring nutritional security. He emphasised the need to strengthen public–private partnerships in the seed sector and advocated for large-scale demonstration of ICAR-IARI-developed vegetable varieties and hybrids across the country, particularly through ICAR-IARI regional stations, to enhance their adoption. He also underlined the importance of adopting improved cultivation practices such as trellising (machan system) and mulching in cucurbitaceous crops. Dr Rao further stressed the significance of quality seed production and the wider dissemination of improved varieties and hybrids.
Representatives from the seed industry and progressive farmers shared their feedback during the interaction session, appreciating the performance and potential of the showcased varieties.
© Indian Council of Agricultural Research
The event was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Dr P. S. Brahmanand, Project Director, Water Technology Centre; Dr R. N. Padaria, Joint Director (Extension); and Dr C. Vishwanathan, Joint Director (Research).
The field day witnessed the participation of around 50 stakeholders and served as a vibrant platform for interaction, knowledge exchange, and fostering future collaborations, particularly in the areas of technology dissemination and commercialisation.
The programme effectively demonstrated the potential of improved summer vegetable varieties and reaffirmed ICAR-IARI's commitment to strengthening the vegetable seed sector in India.
For more information:
Indian Council of Agricultural Research
www.icar.org.in/
