Horticulture Key to Economic Growth and Rural Development

Horticulture plays a crucial role in the economic development of the country enhancing the livlihood of the of people. This was emphasised by Karnataka Governor Mr Thawar Chand Gehlot today.

He was addressing the14th convocation of the University of Horticulture Sciences in Bagalkote, Karnataka. In his address, Mr Gehlot said that there were vast opportunities in horticulture and agriculture. By availing these opportunities and adopting new technology, farmers as well as young graduates of horticulture can bring a qualitative change in their economic conditions.

Over 50% of the country’s population is dependent on agriculture. He gave away gold medals to meritorious students. On this occasion, Director-General of the International Crop Research Institute of Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, Dr Himanshu Pathak urged young horticulture graduates to update their skills to face new challenges in farm sciences. He said the students need to be equipped with recent developments in data science, artificial intelligence, climate resilience, food innovation, sustainable ecosystems etc. Horticulture can contribute to the overall economic growth of the country. By 2025, horticulture crops in Karnataka are expected to be grown in 2.68 million hectares.