Farmers Trained to Boost Oilseed Production

(mohsina bano)

Udaipur, February 24: A one-day workshop was organized on Monday under the National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO) to enhance oilseed production. The workshop saw the participation of 100 selected farmers from Kherwara, Mavli, Jhadol, Phalasia, and Nayagaon Panchayat Samitis.

Held at the new conference hall of MPUAT's Directorate of Research, the workshop focused on increasing oilseed production and achieving self-reliance in edible oils. Dr. R.S. Ratnu, a plant disease scientist, provided insights into diseases affecting oilseed crops like sesame, groundnut, soybean, castor, sunflower, mustard, linseed, and safflower, along with their preventive measures.

Dr. R. Swaminathan, an entomologist, elaborated on major pests affecting oilseed crops, identification of beneficial insects, and the advantages of crop rotation. Dr. P.B. Singh, Dr. Arvind Verma, and Dr. Abhay Dashora shared information on improved groundnut varieties and weed management.

During the inaugural session, Sudhir Kumar Verma, Joint Director of Agriculture (Extension), Udaipur, highlighted that the central government has sanctioned ₹10,800 crore for the Oilseed Production Mission till 2030-31, with 20% funding from the state government.

The event also featured addresses by Additional Director of Agriculture Niranjan Singh Rathore, Assistant Director Shyam Lal Salvi, Deputy Director Khyalilal Khatik, Mitali Rathore, and D.P. Singh, who shared their insights on the mission’s objectives.