During the 6th Science and Technology in Kannada conference, Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science and Technology, N.S. Boseraju, underscored the indispensable link between scientific innovation and agricultural progress. He emphasized that global advancements in science and technology are rapidly accelerating, making their integration into farming practices crucial for sustained growth.
Speaking at the inaugural event of the conference’s second day, held at the Basaveshwar Convention Hall on the University of Agriculture Science (UAS) campus in Raichur, Minister Boseraju praised the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy for its commitment to public education. He noted that the academy’s various programs aim to demystify science and technology, and organizing this sixth conference in Kannada was a particularly commendable effort, ensuring accessibility for local communities.
The Minister urged farmers, especially those within irrigation zones, to adopt modern scientific and technological methods to enhance their agricultural output. He shared the State government’s ambitious plans to expand irrigated land, citing the current irrigation of six lakh acres from the Tungabhadra dam water as an example of potential growth.
MP G. Kumar Naik echoed these sentiments, stressing that agricultural science is now a critical area for research and development. He believes that such conferences empower farmers by connecting them with governmental benefits, including the Union government’s recently announced support prices for green and red chilies.
Naik expressed his appreciation for conducting the conference in Kannada, ensuring that farmers could easily comprehend and benefit from the discussions. He lauded the significant role of agricultural scientists and students in agriculture courses, highlighting their contribution to elevating both societal well-being and educational standards alongside agricultural advancements. Following his address, Mr. Naik unveiled the commemorative issues.
A.G. Srinivas, who serves as the head of the Department of Entomology at UAS and was the conference coordinator, reaffirmed the academy’s two-decade-long dedication to fostering science and technology awareness. Distinguished attendees included Rajasab A.H., President of the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy; D. Mallikarjuna, a member of the Management Board; Thimmanna Somappa Chavadi; Sharanabasappa Kotappagol, Registrar and member secretary of the Management Board; Dean K. Narayana Rao; retired Vice-Chancellor M.K. Nayak; renowned author and former chairperson of the Kannada Book Authority Dr. Vasundhara Bhupathi; and professors Mallikarjuna Ayyanagowda and Dr. Sharanagouda, among other prominent figures.