AEPSA

AEPSA Agricultural Extension Platform for South Asia (AEPSA)

Agricultural Extension Platform for South Asia (AEPSA) Second Meeting of the AEPSA Advisory Committee Date: 13th Decembe...
16/12/2025

Agricultural Extension Platform for South Asia (AEPSA) Second Meeting of the AEPSA Advisory Committee
Date: 13th December, 2025
Venue: KAB-I, Pusa, New Delhi

Society of Extension Education Agra, Organized 2nd International Congress - 2025 at Siksha O Anusandhan, University, Bhu...
27/11/2025

Society of Extension Education Agra, Organized 2nd International Congress - 2025 at Siksha O Anusandhan, University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
The theme was " Rethinking Social Ecology in Digital Landscape".
It was attended by Dr VV Sadamate, Chief Coordinator, AEPSA.

"*"Address delivered at the National Conference on Strengthening Food Systems through Increased Fruit Cultivation"*" # D...
19/11/2025

"*"Address delivered at the National Conference on Strengthening Food Systems through Increased Fruit Cultivation"*"

# Dr RS Paroda, Founder Chairman of the Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS) delivered the inaugural address at the National Conference on Strengthening Food Systems through Increased Fruit Cultivation (CFI-2025) on November 18-19, 2025, jointly organized by ICAR, Alliance Bioversity & CIAT, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., and CHAI, aligns with the objective of "Advancing scientific research and funding initiatives to increase fruit accessibility for low-income families". Dr Paroda's remarks highlighted the commendable progress in horticultural production while stressing the critical need to translate this success into tangible nutritional and economic benefits for all citizens, particularly vulnerable communities.

# Dr Paroda acknowledged the significant strides made in horticultural production in recent years, which have ensured the widespread availability of fruits and vegetables across the country. However, he voiced a serious concern: non-affordability. Despite increased production, the price of nutritious fruits remains out of reach for many low-income families, negating the nutritional benefits of the production boom.

# Dr Paroda emphasized on the conservation and evaluation of local and lesser-known fruit trees. He stressed the importance of reviving these species for both nutritional security and community empowerment. The conference agenda, which includes sessions on "Enhancing and Conserving Fruit Tree Diversity to Strengthen Nutritional Security" and presentations on indigenous and underutilized wild fruits, reflects this critical focus.

# A key takeaway from his address was the need to develop a robust value chain for fruits to ensure better nutrition and increased income of farmers. Dr Paroda underscored that sustained productivity must be linked to efficient post-harvest management and value addition. By creating an effective value chain, the economic viability of fruit cultivation can be enhanced, offering a sustainable livelihood and improving nutritional outcomes for small and marginal farmers.

# Dr Paroda concluded by urging all stakeholders—scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders—to commit to collaborative action to make the vision of "Fruitful India" a reality for every citizen. "A Book “Fruitful Insights” was also released at this occasion"

Dr.R.S. Paroda Emphasises Innovative Approaches for Climate-Smart Agriculture at NICRA-ITD Workshop held at ICAR–ATARI, ...
03/11/2025

Dr.R.S. Paroda Emphasises Innovative Approaches for Climate-Smart Agriculture at NICRA-ITD Workshop held at ICAR–ATARI, Hyderabad
As part of the National Workshop on Technology Demonstration Component (TDC) under the NICRA Programme, Dr. R. S. Paroda, Former Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR) and Chairman, TAAS & AEPSA Advisory Committee, New Delhi, visited ICAR–ATARI, Hyderabad on 30th October 2025.
Dr. Paroda interacted with and guided the scientific staff and project professionals of ICAR–ATARI, Hyderabad, emphasizing the importance of innovative approaches in technology demonstration and adaptive research for climate-smart agriculture. Dr.Rajbir Singh, DDG (Extension), ICAR; Dr. A.K.Nayak, DDG (NRM), ICAR and ATARI Zonal Directors participated in the programme.
During the interaction, Dr. Paroda appreciated the commendable work of ICAR–ATARI, Hyderabad under the NICRA–TDC and other programmes. He lauded the institute’s effective coordination and monitoring of 72 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, for their significant role in promoting climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural technologies at the grassroots level.
Dr. Paroda also commended ATARI Hyderabad’s initiatives in advancing integrated farming systems, resource conservation, and capacity-building programmes for farmers and field functionaries. He noted that the institute’s efforts in technology refinement, validation, and upscaling have greatly contributed to enhancing farm productivity, climate risk management, and livelihood resilience in the region. Dr. Paroda encouraged the team to continue their innovative and farmer-centric approaches to further strengthen agricultural research and development in southern India. During his visit, Dr. Paroda, along with dignitaries, participated in a plantation drive organized at the institute premises, symbolizing a shared commitment toward environmental sustainability and climate-resilient agriculture.

Address

Trust For Advancement Of Agricultural Sciences TAAS IARI Pusa Campus New Delhi
Delhi
110012

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