CSIR-IHBT Palampur team visited Mizoram to promote cultivation of mushrooms, high-value aromatic crops, and low-chilling varieties of apples
Some suitable areas of Mizoram have high-value aromatic crops potential. To help the farming community by planting shiitake and oyster mushrooms and low-chilling varieties of apple. To improve the economy of Mizoram, Mizoram Science Technology and Innovation Council (MISTIC), Aizawl, Mizoram, and College of Horticulture, Thenzol is doing it in collaboration with CSIR IHBT, Palampur.
Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, Director, CSIR-IHBT, Palampur said that the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India has awarded the Institute three projects for inter-institutional collaboration, and approval was given under this initiative of project Shitake and Oyster. To promote the cultivation of mushrooms, high-value aromatic crops, and low-chilling varieties of apples and the development of sustainable use of biological resources of Mizoram approval has been granted.
For this, the CSIR-IHBT team visited Mizoram from 7-10 January 2024. They did training at the College of Horticulture, Thenzawl, and various places in Mizoram
Many Programs were also organized. Dr. Rakesh, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-IHBT Kumar and Principal Scientist E. Mohit Sharma from Horticulture College, Thenzawl, Mizoram, and Dr. Dewi Lalruatliana, Senior Scientific Officer of MISTIC visited various project sites to review aromatic crop projects.
The team interacted with local apple farmers in Khanpui village of Aizawl district and Pruning techniques, nutrient management, irrigation basins, and pits required for the cultivation of Meticulous construction were highlighted. At various places in Mizoram, pilots were conducted. There are plans to bring about 20 acres of area under low-chilling apple varieties. The objective of the initiative is to provide farmers with the latest knowledge required for successful apple cultivation.
The team participated in the event on January 9, 2024, with scientists, and students. There was also a training session on the cultivation and processing technology of aromatic plants for farmers and employees. Organized training program. A process of essential oil extraction from lemongrass and citronella, a practical demonstration was also given to the trainees.
Dr. Rakesh Kumar said that aromatic plants obtain essential oils that are traded in the perfume, flavor, pharmaceutical, and pesticide industries in international markets. Scientists of CSIR-IHBT and Chief Scientist of MISTIC discussed the Progress of Projects between Officer and Member Secretary, Shri ER H Lalsawaliyana
A meeting was also organized to discuss and monitor further plans. The team met Mr. PUCC Lalchuangkima, Chief Executive Officer, of Aizawl Smart City.
The discussion of the meeting focused on aromatic plants and low-chilling varieties of apples, which would promote progress in agricultural innovation and sustainable development. These joint initiatives aim to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical implementation.
The unwavering commitment of CSIR-IHBT and MISTIC aims to empower local farmers and transform Mizoram into sustainable agriculture.
It will also motivate them to adopt the methods.
