#### Crop Diversification Boosts Productivity and Employment in Southern Rajasthan
Two-Day Training Program for Agriculture Officers Begins at MPUAT Udaipur
Udaipur.The Directorate of Research, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, inaugurated a two-day training program for agriculture officers under the Crop Diversification Project. Thirty Assistant Agriculture Officers and Supervisors are participating in the program.
The primary aim of this training is to equip agriculture officers with innovative strategies to transform the farming systems of arid southern Rajasthan. Crop diversification is being recognized as a vital step towards sustainable agriculture, enhanced productivity, farmer income growth, and rural employment generation.
Challenges and Opportunities in Crop Diversification
Project In-Charge Dr. Hari Singh, in his inaugural address, emphasized that a shift from traditional monocropping to diversified farming systems can significantly improve soil health, reduce risks posed by climate variability, and enhance farmer profitability. He highlighted that in districts like Udaipur, Chittorgarh, and Banswara—where water scarcity and erratic rainfall are major challenges—integrating pulses, oilseeds, and horticultural crops alongside maize and wheat can prove to be a game-changing practice.
Expert Insights
Dr. Arvind Verma, Director of Research, discussed advanced weed management practices, stressing integrated approaches to minimize yield losses. He underlined that crop diversification through rotation and intercropping disrupts weed cycles and reduces dependence on herbicides.
Prof. Dr. Pokhar Rawal delivered a lecture on advanced agronomic practices for enhancing productivity under diversified systems. He provided in-depth insights into crop diseases, their diagnosis, and modern methods of crop care.
Dr. Bairwa presented a comparative analysis of cost and returns between horticultural and field crops. He noted that although horticultural crops such as vegetables, fruits, and spices require higher initial investment, they generate considerably greater returns compared to staple crops.
The Way Forward
Experts concluded that crop diversification not only increases profitability for farmers but also creates local employment opportunities. It is a crucial step toward making agriculture more resilient and sustainable in the long run.
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