Maitri - Indo-Brazil Agri-Tech Cross Border Incubation Programme launched
9th December, 2019, New Delhi
The Pusa Krishi Incubator, of ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute launched the “Maitri - Indo-Brazil Agri-Tech Cross Border Incubation Programme” at the National Agricultural Science Centre Complex today.
Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR) highlighted the importance of such programmes for strengthening and promoting the best agricultural practices internationally. Dr. Mohapatra regarded the programme to be useful for the exchange of agricultural technologies and expertise between both the countries. The Director General accentuated on the importance of various agricultural and allied science technologies that are crucial for strengthening the agricultural arena in the country.
Citing the example of various schemes launched by the Government of India, Dr. Mohapatra underlined about the adoption of In-Situ straw management that has helped various states to achieve the zero straw burning status in the country. He also stressed on the promotion of various digital platforms for the agricultural and farming communities.
He emphasized that the collaboration with Government of Brazil will help in effective exchange and, of course, transfer of newer agricultural ideologies and technologies. The Director General urged the young Incubatees to be vigilant and smart enough to adopt the latest and newer technologies for succeeding in their lives.
The Chief Guest, H.E. Shri Andre Aranha Correa do Lago, Ambassador of Brazil to India regarded the venture as an auspicious occasion for strengthening the partnership with the agriculturally-rich countries like India. He stated that there is a wide scope of agriculture and allied sciences in India. Shri Lago accentuated on the cross border relations as the opportunity to learn about the expertise of each other and prosper more in the designated fields. He also stressed that the occasion will enhance the relations between the two countries. Applauding the various achievements made by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Government of India, Shri Lago hoped for life long association with the country for prospering and accolade both the countries with new advancements in the agricultural arena.
Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Secretary (Additional Charge), Technology Development Board, Advisor and Head - Technology Development and Transfer and NEB Division, Department of Science & Technology regarded the challenges and solutions to be the two sides of a coin. He stressed that prompt and effective solutions in the need of the hour can prove to be really helpful in succeeding any field of work. He stated that the collaboration between both the countries will enhance the cross border promotion of Start-Ups.
In his welcome address, Dr. A.K. Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR & Director, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi briefed about the salient features of the collaboration between the two countries. He stated that the occasion will provide an opportunity to the young Incubatees to learn and share their expertise with other Incubatees as well.
Dr. Neeru Bhooshan, CEO, Pusa Krishi Incubator briefed about the incorporation of the concept of Start-Ups. She emphasized that this 6 Months Programme will definitely help to take the agricultural scenario of both the countries to a newer height. Dr. Bhooshan accentuated that the initiative will enhance the farmers to commercialize their products at an international level.
The senior officials of Government of India and Government of Brazil participated in the programme.
Dr. A.K. Singh, Joint Director (Research), ICAR0IARI proposed the vote of thanks.
(Source: ICAR-Directorate of Knowledge Management in Agriculture, New Delhi)