Hukmi Chand Gadri Receives ‘Best Farmer Award’ at ICAR-CRIDA’s 42nd Foundation Day

Udaipur: On the occasion of the 42nd Foundation Day of ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (ICAR-CRIDA), progressive farmer Hukmi Chand Gadri from Lapsiya village in Rajsamand was honored with the ‘Best Farmer Award’ for his outstanding agricultural practices.

The award was presented under the All India Coordinated Research Project for Dryland Agriculture (AICRPDA), being implemented at the Dryland Agriculture Research Center under the Directorate of Research at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology. The honor was conferred by Chief Guest Dr. Himanshu Pathak and Dr. V. K. Singh.

Gadri adopted several innovative techniques, including in-situ water conservation by breaking the subsoil hard pan using a vibro-chisel plough, peripheral bunding, sowing along the slope, spraying 1.0% soluble NPK (18:18:18) in maize during drought conditions, and implementing a chickpea–maize intercropping system. These practices significantly improved water conservation, crop productivity, and farmers’ income.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Pratap Singh of the university described the achievement as a significant and positive milestone, stating that such innovations provide new direction for sustainable agricultural development and bring pride to the institution.

Director of Research Dr. Arvind Kumar Verma noted that the achievement reflects the successful coordination between scientific guidance and farmers’ efforts, demonstrating the practical value of agricultural research. Regional Research Director Dr. S. S. Lakhawat called it an inspiring example of innovation in dryland agriculture, encouraging other farmers to adopt modern techniques.

The university officials also extended congratulations to the team at the Dryland Agriculture Research Center, Rojia, Bhilwara, including Dr. Lalit Kumar Chhata, Project In-charge (AICRPDA & NICRA) Dr. K. C. Nagar, and Senior Research Fellow Mayank Goyal for their contributions.

This recognition not only highlights Gadri’s dedication and innovation but also marks an important step in promoting advanced techniques in dryland farming and enhancing farmers’ income.