The ICAR-Indian Institute of Natural Resins & Gums, Ranchi, Jharkhand, formerly known as Indian Lac Research Institute, in association with the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khunti, Jharkhand organized the “Technology and Machinery Demonstration Mela - 2022” at the Institute’s Research Farm on 2nd April 2022, Ranchi.
The Mela exhibited improved versions of equipment and machinery required for the post-harvest process and crop production developed by different centres of ICAR. Some of the modernized equipment showcased were reversible MB plough, zero till drill, seed spices planter, groundnut planter, air sleeve boom sprayer, seed spices thresher, self-propelled reaper, turmeric polisher, aloe vera juicer, storage bins, solar dryer, among others. The farmers also showcased a great interest in understanding the working, maintenance, and use of the machineries.
Dr. K.K. Sharma, Director, ICAR-IINRG, Ranchi was invited as the chief guest of the event. He stated that the main aim of the exhibition is to make farmers aware of the new age of agricultural technology and equipment. Dr. Sharma also highlighted the accessibility of the provision for hiring of machines on a custom basis at block levels and the subsidized rate of machines under the newly launched government schemes.
Dr. Nirmal Kumar who is the Head of Production and Extension Management Branch, ICAR-IINRG, Ranchi, Jharkhand underlined that by the utilization of new technology and machinery, one can reduce the expenditure on cultivation and thereby increase profits.
Dr. Niranjan Prasad, Head of Mechanization and Process Engineering Branch, ICAR-IINRG, Ranchi shifted to focus on the importance of the farm machines/equipment in doubling the income of the farmers.
Dr. J. Ghosh, In charge of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khunti, and Jharkhand emphasized the advantages of integrated farming and mass level production of farm produces by assembling large groups at the Village level.
More than 155 participants took part in the exhibition.
