UDAIPUR — Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, on Tuesday inaugurated a 15-day Retail Fertilizer Dealer Authorization Certificate Training Program organized by its Directorate of Extension Education to enhance the technical knowledge and advisory skills of fertilizer dealers.
Inaugurating the program, Vice Chancellor Dr. Pratap Singh said the training is essential for fertilizer and pesticide dealers, enabling them to become not only input suppliers but also trusted advisers equipped with scientific knowledge to guide farmers.
He urged participants to apply the technical knowledge gained during the training in their businesses and to provide timely, science-based recommendations to farmers. He said dealers can play an important role as agents of change by promoting modern agricultural technologies and helping farmers adopt practices that improve productivity and income. He also encouraged the participants to remain connected with university scientists and stay updated with the latest agricultural research and literature.
Director of Research Dr. Manoj Mahala highlighted the significant role of fertilizer and pesticide dealers in agricultural development. He said dealers serve as an important link in transferring advanced technologies, improved crop varieties and balanced nutrient management practices developed through scientific research to farmers. He encouraged trainees to use the scientific and practical knowledge acquired during the program to provide accurate and reliable advice that reduces production costs, protects soil health and promotes sustainable agriculture.
Director of Extension Education Dr. R. L. Soni emphasized the importance of balanced fertilizer use, soil testing and soil health. He said sustainable and profitable farming requires integrated nutrient management, soil health cards, organic farming practices and crop diversification. He added that the training would include both theoretical and practical sessions on fertilizer-use efficiency, integrated farming systems, sustainable agriculture and modern farming technologies.
Training Coordinator Dr. Rajeev Bairathi, professor, said the program has been organized for 45 participants from several districts, including Udaipur, Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Banswara, Dungarpur and Salumber. During the 15-day course, participants will receive theoretical and hands-on training related to fertilizer authorization certification from university scientists and officials of the state Agriculture Department.
The inaugural session also included an orientation for the participants, outlining the objectives, training schedule and activities planned over the next 15 days. University officials, including Dr. Adarsh Sharma and Dr. Sumit Yadav, attended the program.