Talks on for seed park in state with Dutch co, says min

UP horticulture minister Dinesh Pratap Singh said state govt was looking for an opportunity to collaborate globally for creating a seed park in the state.
Addressing an agriculture summit organised by the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) in the state capital, Singh said that the association was in talks with top Dutch companies for the purpose.
The minister further said export potential of the state would be enhanced through farmer-industry-institutions partnerships and by providing exposure to international farming practices and market functioning.
The discussions at the summit revolved around the state’s notable achievements in agriculture and explored strategies for further advancements.
Singh emphasised importance of grassroots engagement, stressing the need for educating farmers in villages. He highlighted the critical role of quality production in enhancing market presence and need for focused effort on export sector. He also underlined the importance of reaching out to village farmers to ensure inclusive growth.
ICFA chairman M J Khan highlighted crucial need for integrating digital technology into farming practices and stressed digital enablement of farmers as essential for improving farming efficiency, enhancing the quality of produce, reducing costs and ultimately increasing overall value of farm products.
Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak said UP had huge potential in agriculture and opportunities had to be harnessed through partnerships with chambers and the private sector and mobilising trade and investments to strengthen the farm economy and farmers’ incomes.
Source: TimesOfIndia