Farmers Seminar on Scientific and Technological Approaches for Sustainable Spices Productions

An exclusive FARMERS SEMINAR on "Scientific and Technological Approaches for Sustainable Spices Production" was organized FIRST TIME by the Indian Society for Spices, Kozhikode, in collaboration with ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, on September 14, 2023, at ICAR-IISR, Regional Station, Appangala, Madikeri, Karnataka. The program was inaugurated by Professor Ashok S Alur, Vice-Chancellor of Kodagu University, Kushalnagar, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. R. Dinesh, Director of ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode; Dr. K. Kandiannan, Principal Scientist and President of the Indian Society for Spices (ISS); Dr. M.N. Venugopal, Former Head of ICAR-IISR, RS, Appangala; Dr. S. J. Ankegowda, Head of the Regional Station, Appangala, and Vice President of the Society; and Mr. Bose Mandanna, Former Vice-President of the Coffee Board. Additionally, there were other notable attendees, including the Assistant Director of the Spices Board, Madikeri; the Head of CHES, Chettalli; the Deputy Director (Research) of CCRI, Sub Station, Chettalli and the Head of KVK, Gonikoppal. Dr V Srinivasan, and Dr Sheeja, T E, HOD’s of ICAR-IISR and Executive Members of ISS - Dr Sharon Aravind (Secretary) , Dr Maneesha S R (Treasurer) , Dr R Gobu (Joint Secretary) and Mr. Manjunath B. D (EC Member) and many ISS Members were also present. During the event, high-yielding hybrid of Black pepper named IISR Chandra was unveiled. Additionally, an e-newsletter from ISS, an e-manual containing seminar lecture notes and leaflet from ISS were also released. The seminar emphasized on recent advances in improved varieties, production and plant protection technologies of black pepper, cardamom and ginger. AnMoU was also signed between ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode and Kodagu University, Chikka Aluvara, Kushalnagar, intended to facilitate collaboration in education, research and training related to spices, marking a pivotal step towards advancing knowledge and innovation in this field. During the seminar, the lectures were focusing on black pepper, cardamom and ginger covering the major topics viz., varietal wealth by Dr. Shivakumar M.S. Scientist, ICAR-IISR, RS, Appangala; Nutrient management by Dr. S. J. Ankegowda, Head, Regional Station, Appangala; Critical factors in cultivation of spices by Dr. M.N. Venugopal, Former Head of ICAR-IISR, RS, Appangala; Disease management by Dr. C.N. Biju, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode; Pest management by Dr. Balaji Rajkumar M and harvest and post-harvest technology by Dr. Akshitha H.J. Scientist, ICAR-IISR, RS, Appangala. An exhibition showcasing technologies of ICAR-IISR was also arranged for the benefit of farmers. The event saw participation from more than 150 farmers from various regions of Karnataka, making it a valuable seminar. Dr. Honnappa Asangi, proposed a vote of Thanks.