From Farm Produce To New Technology, Dharwad Krishi Mela Has Plenty To See

DHARWAD: Colourful flowers, farm produce, cattle of different breeds, an intriguing collection of insects and new farm technologies are among the attractions at the Krishi Mela at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad.

The fruit and flower show, opened by University Vice-Chancellor Prof NB Prakash on Friday, has emerged as one of the attractions of the fair being held at the University campus. Different varieties of fruits, vegetables, flowers and other farm produce have been put on display, with visitors getting information about their varieties, quality and cultivation methods. The livestock exhibition is another draw. Farmers are stopping by to look at different breeds of cattle and learn about them.

The insect exhibition was another interesting place. It features both beneficial and harmful insects and provides information about their life cycles, their impact on crops and scientific methods of controlling crop pests.

The fair also has stalls showcasing new agricultural research, farm machinery and technologies. Demonstrations are arranged to give farmers a closer look at how the equipment and technologies work and how they can be used in farming.

Addressing the seed fair held as part of the event, former Vice-Chancellor Prof RR Hanchinal said women had played an important role over the years in conserving and developing seed varieties.

He said the theme of this year's Krishi Mela— ‘Empowered Women–Sustainable Agriculture’ — was significant, given the contribution of women to seed conservation. The university has developed several high-yielding seed varieties and is also working on varieties that can perform better during drought conditions, he said. The four-day event will officially be inaugurated by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Saturday.