Latest technology in farm sector disseminated

A mega ‘Kissan mela’ organised by Agricultural Technology Management Agency was held in Tuticorin on 22nd Saturday.

Official sources said that the fair was arranged to disseminate technological advances in the agricultural sector to the farmers and to make them aware of the role of high quality inputs in enhancing productivity of crops.

In all, 17 stalls were established by various departments, research institutes and private firms to showcase certified seeds, agricultural implements, fertilizers and government schemes.

V. Subramanian, chief scientist, Agricultural Research Station, Kovilpatti, explained features of KC-3 variety of cotton developed by the station recently to visitors and how it was suited for rainfed conditions.

He said that use of the type would yield a lint length of 26.4 mm and a ginning percentage of 37.

The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University deciphered the importance of pre-monsoon sowing for raising cotton, sorghum, pulses, maize and sunflower.

The expo also gave an insight into the agronomy practices such as furrow system to conserve soil moisture.

The stall set up by the Department of Sericulture explained the process involved in manufacturing ‘twisted silk.’

The veterinarians from Department of Animal Husbandry explained the steps to combat diseases among the cattle.

The Pepsico India Holdings Private Limited elucidated the methodology to extract sap from seaweeds, which could be used to enhance plant growth.

Earlier, Minister for Animal Husbandry P. Geetha Jeevan inaugurated the mela and distributed certified seed, hand sprayers and coconut seedlings to farmers under various government-sponsored schemes.

Collector R. Palaniyandi, Joint Director of Agriculture M. Mohanados, Superintendent of Police Deepak Motibhai Damor and officials participated.