Parmar varsity organises exposure tour for sudents
A group of 30 students of 2nd and 3rd year BSc Forestry of Dr. Y.S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni along with faculty undertook an exposure tour at different destinations. The tour was funded by NAHEP IDP.
The tour commenced with the students taking part in the three-day 5th Kisan Swaraj Sammelan 2022 organized by Alliance for Sustainable and Holistic Agriculture at Karnataka State Open University, Mysore.
The main aim was to showcase the farmer empowering, sustainable, equitable and viable alternatives in Indian farming and the role of youth in agriculture. Several pioneers of the ecological farming movement shared their experiences and opinions on this platform. Several lectures and presentations by eminent scientists and experts on topics like the Importance of Agroecology, and Economic Security for all farm households. Professor Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, UHF Vice-Chancellor also gave a presentation on the Promotion of Natural farming which was followed by farmer success stories from throughout the country.
During the event, issues regarding Tribal Farming Practices, Challenges of tenant farmers, and Monetary disputes among agriculture workers were raised and solutions were presented for the same. A thematic session on Youth and Agriculture was held where students from various institutions brainstormed on a wide range of topics such as urban forestry, organic farming through a modern approach etc.
The students got a chance to visit the Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam, in Tamil Nadu and participated in the Consortium of Industrial Agroforestry. Dr. KT Prathiban, Dean of the College interacted with the students at Agroforestry Business Incubator Forum. Visits were conducted to see the Clonal Seeding Unit, Multifunction Agroforestry Models, Seasoning and Wood Preservation Unit and Xylarium where specimens of different wood species were displayed.
Students were exposed to new techniques in nursery production of fast-growing and short-rotation commercial tree species. Discussions on the contribution of forestry to the global economy and the scenario of wood-based industries were also held. The students were apprised of the technology and preparation of rooting media. Hands-on training was given on CNC unit (Computer Numerical Control) and carving practical using CNC technology. The visit ended on 16th November with a visit to the nearby plywood industries.
