Farmer-scientist dialogue over Bt crop sought
“The problems and apprehensions of farmers could be addressed through an open dialogue with scientists. It is with this intention that Agriculture Technology Management Association (Atma) has been organising field visits and interaction with scientists,” he said at a seminar on Mechanisation in Sericulture and Modern Technology here on Tuesday.
Advantages
The application of Bt technology to agriculture yields special advantages to farmers. The investment on pesticides has drastically come down with the advent of the technology and the government, for this reason, has been promoting it. The farming community had vehemently opposed introduction of Bt cotton in the beginning. However, the benefits of the crop were realised by farmers gradually.
“One can arrive at a definite stand with an open-minded discussion with the scientists,” he noted.
He said that the farmers in the district have shifted focus to horticulture from food grains. The ample opportunities for export of the produces could be not be exploited due to poor quality of the output. Scientists can guide farmers in ensuring the quality of the produce.
Farmers in dark
Former president of Krishika Samaj, Venkateshappa, sought details on Atma(Agriculture Technology Maintenance Institute). “Officers are time and again referring to Atma. But farmers are in dark about this institution. It has neither come to rescue of farmers so far,”he objected.
Earlier, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer G V Rangarao, who inaugurated the seminar called upon farmers to adopt to emerging technologies in agriculture to tackle new challenges.
Dr Jayashankar, Dr Saralakumari of Kurubur Krishi Vignana Kendra, assistant professor Dr Bhanuprakash enlightened the farmers on new technology. ZP deputy secretary Lakshminarayana and Deputy Director K B Shantamurthy were present.