Nauni varsity to enhance skills of Nepalese farmers and agri-officials

Nauni, February 26, 2024: In line with the collaborative efforts between the External Affairs Ministries of India and Nepal, a 30-member delegation from Nepal, consisting of farmers and officials from the agriculture department, arrived at the Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni. This group will participate in a 10-day training program focused on 'Capacity Building of Public and Private Stakeholders for Organic Highland Apple and Walnut Farming in the Karnali Region of Nepal.'

The training initiative is supported by the Ministry of External Affairs, Northern Division, Nepal Section, New Delhi, in partnership with the Federal and Provincial Agriculture Ministry of Nepal. The university has been selected by the Ministry of External Affairs to contribute to the skill development of Nepalese agriculture officials and farmers, particularly in the organic cultivation of apple, walnut, and kiwi.

During the opening session, Director of Research Dr. Sanjeev Chauhan shed light on the historical collaboration between India and Nepal across diverse fields and emphasized the cultural, social, and geographical similarities between the hilly regions of Nepal and Himachal. “It is a proud moment for the university, that the government of India has chosen us to showcase our technology and aid in the skill development of the farmers and agri-officers from Nepal. The progress made by Himachal has been due to the proper application of science and the hardworking farming community,” said Dr Chauhan.  He highlighted Himachal's progress in Natural Farming and the university's position as a leading center for training officials in this methodology.

Dhan Bahadur Kathayat, Agriculture Extension Officer from the Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperative, Government of Karnali Province, Nepal, provided a comprehensive overview of the agriculture and horticulture landscape in Nepal. He shared insights into the organic practices in the Karnali region, where the agri produce is branded as 'Mulyawaan' to establish a distinct market presence and secure better prices for farmers.

Earlier, Dr. Rajesh Kaushal, Joint Director of Research, informed that this is the inaugural batch of trainees from Nepal and this collaboration will see the university enhance the skills of around 300 participants. The training will focus on hands-on experience in fruit and vegetable cultivation, with an emphasis on apple, walnut, and kiwi. The participants will also gain insights into organic and natural farming methodology, along with biocontrol measures. Dr. Amit Vikram, Joint Director of Research, presented the Vote of Thanks.

The session was attended by Dr. Manish Sharma, Dean College of Horticulture; Dr. CL Thakur, Dean College of Forestry; Dr. Inder Dev, Director Extension Education; Dr. Rajesh Bhalla, Dean Students’ Welfare; Dr. KK Raina, Librarian; Dhayan Singh Chauhan, Comptroller; Er Anil Parmar, Estate Officer; and heads of various departments.