Provide chemical-free food grains to future generations: Himachal agri varsity VC

During his inaugural address, he urged participants to refer scientific literature and review it before carrying out any scientific investigation. He was addressing the participants in the seminar organised under the joint aegis of Northern Region of Indian Phytopathological Society (IPS) and Himalayan Phytopathological Society (HPS). He advised them to learn from their guides and build mutual professional relations with professionals. He said there institutions did not have much funds for research-related works, but the relations they would make would benefit them in the future.

The ceremony was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Naveen Kumar. During his address, he said more production of food grains would happen only when the crop was disease-free. For this, one had to work together with the farmers in the fields, he said. He emphasised providing disease-free and chemical-free food to the coming generation. Kumar further said the symposium was based on topics such as planning new dimensions in plant disease research, epidemiology of plant diseases, integrated disease management, molecular advances, climate-friendly technology in plant pathology, artificial tools in plant diseases and mushroom cultivation. The aim was to address challenges in phytopathology, contribute to sustainable agriculture and ensure food security by promoting research, education and awareness in the field of plant diseases and their management.

Former dean of Agriculture College BM Singh was the special guest. DK Baniyal, head of the department, said nine different sessions would be organised during this two-day symposium. He said these would include four oral presentation sessions, two award sessions. Six invited keynote lectures and 22 oral presentations would be given and 14 contestants would compete for awards. In all, 116 posters would be displayed in various poster sessions, he added.