The ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, had organized a very important exhibition named Kisan Mela-cum-exhibition on Scientific Aquaculture in the V. G. Auditorium, ICAR-CIFA.
The Chief Guest of the occasion was Dr. P. K. Sahoo, Director of ICAR-CIFA, who also spoke on the symbiotic relationship of ICAR-CIFA’s technological innovations with farmers’ income enhancement. He specifically mentioned the female role in agriculture, which is of critical importance for the sector. He praised the success stories of women entrepreneurs and showcased their products promoted under the branding efforts of the Self-Help Groups.
Jagadish Panda, the chief guest and the representative from the Department of Fisheries, Government of Odisha, captured the minds of the attendees by elaborating on the different government schemes that are relevant to the fisheries sector; he provided some insights into some of the opportunities that are available to the farmers.
There were bright demonstrations of knowledge and innovation, through which 10 exhibition stalls depicted the participating members’ diverse contributions at the ICAR-CIFA campus. This foundation provided a basis for interaction, education, and cooperation, which resulted in an exchange of ideas between everyone.
The Kisan Mela was immensely popular, as it attracted more than 250 farmers and farm women. These strong participation enabled further understanding of the phenomenon of communication of such initiatives in agricultural education and outreach, community participation, and utilization of scientific progress in aquaculture.
On the whole, the Kisan Mela-cum Exhibition at ICAR-CIFA was a resounding success, reflecting the combined efforts to support sustainable agriculture and the empowerment of farmers for a brighter future.
Source-ICAR-CIFA, BHUBANESWAR