‘Sarson Vigyan Mela–2026’ Organised

24 February 2026, Bharatpur

ICAR-Indian Institute of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, in association with the Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology, Gurugram, successfully organized ‘Sarson Vigyan Mela–2026’ today. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 500 farmers across the region and served as a dynamic platform for direct interaction between scientists and farmers, aimed at accelerating the adoption of improved mustard production technologies.

The programme was graced by Dr. H. C. Sharma, Former Vice-Chancellor of Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan, as the Chief Guest.
In his inaugural address, he described farmers as the backbone of the nation and stressed the need to ensure better market access for them. He underscored the importance of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) as an effective mechanism for empowering farmers and securing remunerative prices. He also encouraged farmers to adopt beekeeping alongside mustard cultivation, noting that it can significantly enhance income and improve mustard productivity through effective pollination. Emphasizing integrated farming systems, he stated that scientific practices and direct market linkages would pave the way for sustainable agricultural prosperity.

Dr. Vijay Veer Singh, Director, ICAR–IIRMR, warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, dignitaries, farmers, and stakeholders. In his address, he highlighted the Institute’s significant achievements in collaboration with IPFT, Gurugram, particularly in the management of Orobanche (Gudiya). He informed that the Institute has secured three patents and developed nano-herbicides for its effective control. He further emphasized that advanced varieties and scientific production technologies developed by ICAR–IIRMR are playing a vital role in enhancing farmers’ incomes and contributing to national self-sufficiency in edible oils.

Other dignitaries also highlighted the importance of adopting scientific production and plant protection technologies to enhance rapeseed–mustard productivity in the country.

During interactive technical sessions, scientists and progressive farmers shared scientific insights, field experiences, and success stories in rapeseed–mustard cultivation. Experts provided practical, science-based solutions to farmers’ queries on improved varieties, nutrient management, pest and disease control, climate resilience, and value addition. The dialogue-based approach ensured that farmers’ field-level challenges were directly addressed by subject matter specialists.

Progressive farmers who demonstrated outstanding efforts in adopting and disseminating ICAR–IIRMR technologies were felicitated during the event. Their achievements were showcased as inspiring examples for the wider farming community.

An exhibition featuring stalls by ICAR–IIRMR, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and private companies was also organized. The exhibition showcased advanced production technologies, improved mustard varieties, plant protection solutions, farm machinery, and digital extension tools. The stalls attracted considerable interest from farmers and other stakeholders, reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to bridging the gap between research and field application.

The Sarson Vigyan Mela–2026 reaffirmed ICAR–IIRMR’s dedication to strengthening farmer–scientist linkages and promoting sustainable and profitable mustard cultivation to enhance farmers’ income and ensure national edible oil security.

(Source: ICAR–Indian Institute of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur)