Krishi Mela at GKVK begins today

Besides latest technologies developed at the UAS, new hybrids and scientifically grown crops will be on display.

As many as 600 stalls have been set up involving various development departments, input agencies, NGOs, agri-entrepreneurs, Self Help Groups and UAS students and faculty members. In addition to this, 34 best male and female farmers, including 10 organic farmers, will be honoured on the occasion.  

Dr P G Chengappa, Vice-Chancellor, UAS, said good agriculture practices with self-sustaining methods should be introduced and shared among the farmers.

The new hybrid KBSH 53 sunflower seeds that produce 42 to 44 per cent of oil content, a new hybrid of Hebbal Avare, which will have more aroma essence (sogadu), will be demonstrated. Soil sense study with three-line equation cropping of Brinjal (Araka-anada) and high yielding and nutritious Soyabean - Karune will also be showcased.  
All season horse gram along with two ragi varieties GPU-66 and KMR - 301, Foxtail Millet (Navane) which can be grown as a bonus crop along with the main season ragi crops will also be introduced.

The mela will also talk about the growing methods and usage of aromatic and medicinal plants like pacholi, rosemary, lemon grass, aloe vera.   

UAS has developed new technologies in areas of crop production, weed control, pest and
disease management, horticulture etc. Further, arrangements have been made to showcase improved practices of subsidiary enterprises like animal husbandry, dairy, poultry, sheep, fish, etc.

More importance will be given to organic farming. Organic Farming Mission Chairman Anand Arshi told Deccan Herald that 52,200 farmers who were introduced to organic farming will set up their stalls. "Around 300 farmers from each taluk have shown interest in organic farming for which Rs 100 crore has been allotted by the State government. These farmers will be trained from January," he said. A dog show will also be part of the Mela.  Additional BMTC buses from Kempegowda Bus Terminus will ply to GKVK campus.