Second International Conference & 'APCHNE-2012' Inaugurated

Use New Frontiers in Nano-Technology for Specialized areas of Agriculture and Health - Shri Harish Rawat

New Delhi, 15 February 2012

‘The new frontiers in nano-technology, for precise and result oriented delivery systems, can help us, in many specialized areas of agriculture and health. Issues like environmental safety and sustainability, through integrated pest management approaches are very important. Increased global awareness, and trade-linked compulsions on good agricultural practices, is required for Global Gap standards, for our farmers and entrepreneurs alike’, said Shri Harish Rawat, Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Food Processing Industries and Parliamentary Affairs. He was inaugurating Second International Conference on ‘Agrochemicals Protecting Crops Health and Natural Environment - Role of Chemistry for Sustainable Agriculture (15-18 February)’ organized at Pusa Campus.

‘Demand of food grains in our country would be 257.35 million tons in 2016-17 and 294.97 million tons in 2026-2027. The use of chemicals in agriculture and its adverse impact on the ecosystems is further complicating the overall scenario of food production, safety and sustainability. We have to tread the path with utmost dedication and commitment’, he added.

Shri Rawat also felicitated agricultural experts and Industrialists in the conference.

Earlier, Prof. V.L. Chopra, Former Member of Planning Commission urged to look into three major areas of concern-Increasing load of agricultural chemicals causing soil and environmental problems, gradual increase in use of pesticides and lack of general awareness. He called for greater attention of scientists and academicians to address these issues.

Dr. John Unsworth, Chairman, International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Committee on Crop Protection Chemistry highlighted the role of IUPAC. Dr. N.A. Shakil provided information about the Conference.

The Conference is jointly organized by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Society for the Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture and Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Senior officials of ICAR, National and International organizations and representatives of pesticide industries are participating in the conference.

(Source-NAIP Sub-Project on Mass Media Mobilization, DKMA)