PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Agriculture minister Ganesh Joshi emphasised the importance of promoting tissue culture in the State and directed the establishment of tissue culture labs in both the Garhwal and Kumaon divisions. He gave the direction during a meeting held on Wednesday with officials from the Agriculture and Horticulture departments. During the meeting, he conducted a review of various schemes operated by the Central and State governments, along with providing necessary guidelines to ensure their effective implementation.
Joshi stated that tissue culture technology will offer farmers opportunities for lower costs, reduced risks and increased income. He highlighted that this technology represents a significant step toward modernising farming practices, making them more scientific and commercially viable. The minister instructed officials to prepare a concrete action plan to promote tissue culture and empower farmers economically by encouraging them to cultivate more profitable crops. He also pointed out the potential of the aroma sector, emphasising the cultivation of crops like lavender and dandelion in hilly areas. He advocated for innovative work in the aroma sector that involves more farmers.
Additionally, Joshi directed the State to expedite the development of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a testing lab that meets international standards for agricultural and horticultural products exported to foreign markets. He also called for the identification of suitable land for this purpose and urged the establishment of a food processing unit, instructing officials to complete all necessary paperwork and initiate work promptly.
Joshi said that all schemes must be implemented effectively and in a timely manner, urging officials to work with dedication and commitment to ensure that farmers receive the real benefits of these programmes.
