Progressive Farmer Honored for Innovation in Dryland Agriculture

Udaipur: On the occasion of the 42nd Foundation Day of ICAR–Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (ICAR-CRIDA), Hyderabad, progressive farmer Shri Hukmi Chand Gadri from Lapasiya village in Rajsamand district, Rajasthan, was honored with the “Best Farmer Award” for his outstanding agricultural practices. The award was presented by Chief Guest Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General (DG), ICRISAT, Hyderabad, along with Dr. V.K. Singh, Director, ICAR-CRIDA. Shri Gadri is associated with the All India Coordinated Research Project for Dryland Agriculture (AICRPDA), being implemented at the Dryland Agriculture Research Centre under the Directorate of Research, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur. Shri Gadri adopted several innovative techniques, including breaking the hard pan in subsoil using a vibro-chisel plough for in-situ water conservation, 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 have significantly improved water conservation, crop productivity, and farmers’ income. Vice Chancellor of MPUAT, Prof. Pratap Singh, termed this achievement as a significant milestone for the university, stating that such innovations provide new direction for sustainable agricultural development and bring pride to the institution. Director of Research, Dr. Arvind Kumar Verma, highlighted that this accomplishment reflects the effective coordination between scientific guidance and farmers’ hard work, demonstrating the practical value of agricultural research. Regional Research Director Dr. S.S. Lakhawat described it as an inspiring example of innovation in dryland agriculture that will motivate other farmers to adopt advanced technologies. Prof. Pratap Singh, Dr. Arvind Kumar Verma, and Dr. S.S. Lakhawat also extended congratulations to Chief Scientist Dr. Lalit Kumar Chhata, Project In-charge (AICRPDA & NICRA) Dr. K.C. Nagar, and Senior Research Fellow Mayank Goyal from the Dryland Agriculture Research Centre, Bhilwara, for their contribution to this achievement. This recognition not only highlights Shri Gadri’s dedication and innovation but also marks a significant step toward the promotion of advanced techniques in dryland agriculture and enhancing farmers’ income.