Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Aug 8: Farmers should not only concentrate on agriculture but also focus on allied agricultural activities to increase their income, said Bantwal MLA Rajesh Naik Ulippady.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Kisan Ghosti, training, and equipment distribution programme held on Thursday at Ambedkar Bhavan, B C Road, organised by the agriculture department under the National Agricultural Extension Sub-Mission.

"In our district, there are many small-scale farmers, and a large number of them are involved in secondary occupations besides farming. There is no better profession than agriculture. I have shaped my life through farming and I am leading a peaceful life today because of it," he said.

BOODA president Baby Kundar, in his address, stressed the need to promote soil-suitable farming. “Only if agriculture survives can nature and the country survive. Such programmes that inspire farmers should be held at the gram panchayat level,” he said.

Several farmers who have achieved excellence in agriculture were honoured on this occasion with district and taluk-level Atma Shreshtha awards.

ID cards were distributed to Krishi Sakhis of the taluk. Training was also conducted on the use of judicious pesticides and reducing residue levels in crops. Private landowners were trained on crop surveys.

Horticulture department assistant director Pradeep D’Souza, agriculture department deputy director Kumuda, CPCRI scientist Dr Madhu, Bantwal agriculture department technical officer Nandan Shenai were present.

Assistant director of the agriculture department Veena K R welcomed the gathering with an introductory speech. Kadeshwalya gram panchayat development officer Sunil compered the programme, and technical manager Deeksha proposed the vote of thanks. Staff members Hanumanth Kalagi and Virupaksha Hadapad rendered support.