KAU News - March 2016

Volume XXII. ISSUE 1 Web: www.kau.in March 2016 Email: [email protected] 2016 inaugurationCM Declares New Agriculture College at Wayanad Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that the role of agricultural Chief Minister Oommen Chandy inaugurates Pooppoli 2016development in Nation’s progress cannot go unnoticed. horticulture potential of Wayanad. Interaction with international Speaking after inaugurating the global florifest (Pooppoli 2016) experts also helped scientists and research scholars gain in knowledgeorganised by KAU at RARS, Ambalavayal, Chief Minister highlighted and experience. The show is arranged with co-operation of otherthe contributions of KAU and also announced that a new Agricultural departments, PSUs and District administration.college will start functioning at Ambalavayal from next academicyear onwards. (more news on page 8 & 9) Minister for SC/ST development P. K. Jayalakshmi inauguratedthe exhibition being conducted as part of florifest. I. C. BalakrishnanMLA presided over the function in which KAU Executive Committeemembers M. P. Vincent MLA, P. A. Salam and Aji Francis;District Panchayat President Ushakumari, District CollectorV. Kesavendrakumar IAS, Women’s Commission ChairpersonRosakutty, Hill Area Development Authority Vice-ChairmanM. D. Appachan, KAU functionaries and local body representativesparticipated. Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran welcomed thegathering while RARS head Dr. Rajendran Pangath offered voteof thanks. 2016 edition of flower show also coincides with the firstinternational conference on succulents and other ornamentalsorganised by International Society for Horticultural Sciences (ISHS)held in India. The conference has helped to bring to light theInside this issue GC APPROVES DEFICIT FREE BUDJETPage 2 Academic Council, CRS Lab Complex, KAU budget for 2016-17 was passed by He assured the house that a separate FSA Song & Hi-tech Horticulture Centre the General Council. meeting of the Council will be held to discuss CoA Jubilee, SAARC meet, Republic DayPage 3 & CCBM Seminar The 125th Meeting of the detailed budgetary programmes council which met at Thiruva- Budget at a Glance after the election code of Metereological day, GC moots OrganicPage 4 PoP, CoF Workshop & FAST lab nanthapuram on March 29 Outlay - Rs. 546.63 crores conduct is withdrawn. approved the budget esti- Plan Expenditure The meeting was atte-Page 5 World Soil day, Recognitions & KVK Rs. 68.11 crores Workshop mates presented by the Chairman, Vice-Chancellor Non Plan Expenditure nded by Executive Commi-Page 6 Vice-Chancellor’s Message Dr. P. Rajendran. Rs.378.94 crores ttee members Dr. Jose Joseph, Aji Francis and Water Day, GIS trainings, Thirumumb home, External aided projectsPage 7 Fungus for Cancer fight Rs. 65.50 croresPage 8 ISHS Seminar Dr. Rajendran, in his brief Revolving Funds Fincance Special Secretary speech said that the 546.63 Rs. 9.99 crores E. K. Prakash as well as elected crore budget envisages non plan Internal receipts and nominated members ofPage 9 Pooppoli promotes agri development grant in aid of Rs. 281.91 crores Rs. 22.79 crores General Council and UniversityPage 10 CM hails KAU, plagiarism workshop, Onion and plan grant of Rs. 65.50 crores. The officers participated. farming workshop receipts under external aided projects is Dr. Jiju P. Alex, V. S. Sathyaseelan, Inauguration of water source, Farming pegged at Rs. 78.27 crores. N. L. Sivakumar, V ishnu Narayanan,Page 11 lessons for SBT Managers, Agro service The Vice-Chancellor hoped to get more Dr. S. Devanesan, Director of Agriculture centres, Women’s day grant in aid under non plan in the light of Ashok Kumar Thekken, Sasthamangalam Agri polytechnics, Krishi Vigyan award,Page 12 SAARC Scholarships & ONV Rememberance new pay revision, recruitment of staff and Mohan, Soumya Krishnan and Dr. R. Krishna other unavoidable expenditure. kumar participated in the discussions.

PAGE - 2 KAU NEWS Vol. XXII Issue 1Academic Council propose Laboratory Complex at BalaramapuramRepository of Research publications inaugurated The KAU Academic Council has decided to start a reposi- tory of Research papers, books and other publications of faculty members. The 126th meeting of the Council held at KAU head quarters under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor Vice-Chancellor & Academic Director in the Dr. P. Rajendran also stressed Vice-Chancellor inaugurates the Lab complex Academic Council Meet on December 30 the need to discourage publica- at CRS, Balaramapuram tion of research papers in predatory journals. Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran The council also decided to select students for MBA (ABM) based on the score in inaugurated the new training hall –KMAT (Kerala Management Aptitude Test). Hither to the University was conducting a laboratory complex at CRS, Balarama-separate test for MBA (ABM) admission. puram on November 19. Director of Research Dr. Sajan Kurien presided over The council decided to equate M.Sc (Wildlife Science) of Wildlife Institute of India, the function.Dehra Dun with that of M.Sc. Forestry (Wildlife Science) of Kerala Agricultural University.Another decision is to include B.Tech. (Food Engineering) also as a qualification for The farmers’ training programmeadmission to M.Tech. (Ag. Engg.) with specialization in Agricultural Processing and Food was inaugurated by Dr. K. Prathapan,Engineering. Director, SHM. Dr. C. S. Jayachandran Nair delivered the Keynote address. Dr. P. V. Balachandran, Registrar, Dr. T. E. George, Director (Acad & PG Studies) and Dr. S. Devanesan welcomed the gatheringDr. R. Krishnakumar, Controller of Examinations spoke. Deans, Directors and elected and Dr. N. V. Radhakrishnan proposedmembers of the council participated. vote of thanks.Food Security Army New Centre for Hi-Tech HorticultureInvocation song launched The new centre for High Tech Horticulture and Precision Farming has started functioning at Vellanikkara. The centre attached to ARS, Mannuthy and located close to International Students Hostel is meant for undertaking research, demonstration and training in High Tech Horticulture. A new office building, training hall and poly houses for soil and soilless cultivation and large scale production of vegetable trans- Vidhyadharan Master inaugurating the plants and grafted function to launch FSA invocation song seedlings has been Music director P. S. Vidhyadharan Master launched the FoodSecurity Army (FSA) invocation song . developed in an Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran at the area of 1.0 acre at New Centre for Hi-Tech Horticulture The maestro reminded the audience that thenjaatupaatu, the centre and remai-thekkupaatu, koythupaatu etc. not only inspired farm workersbut also created a festival mood during farming operations. ning 4.0 acres of land will be utilized for open field precision Video visualization of the 3 minute long invocation song farming. It will also house the Centre of Excellence in Protectedwritten by Gokul G., FSA master trainer was carried out bySandeep M. M., another Master Trainer. Cultivation and Precision Farming sanctioned by the State Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha, Director of Extension, KAU presided Government will now function at this new centre.over the function held at ARS, Mannuthy on October 1. MusicianDr. Sreevalsan J. Menon felicitated the creators of invocation The seedling production unit at the centre has an installedsong. Dr. U. Jaikumaran, Professor & Head, ARS and, Dr. K. P. capacity to produce 15.0 lakh seedlings per year and largePrameela, Professor spoke. scale production of vegetable transplants has already started. Around 2.0 lakh vegetable seedlings of Amranthus, Snake gourd, Cucumber, Ashgourd, Chilli, Tomato and brinjal have been produced in the first lot.

Vol. XXII Issue 1 KAU NEWS PAGE - 3CoA, Vellayani Enters Diamond Jubilee Republic Day Celebrated in KAU Minister for Agriculture K. P. Mohananinaugurated the year long diamond jubileecelebrations of CoA, Vellayani on September30. Dr. Jameelaprakasam MLA presided overthe function. The minister also inaugurated newPesticide residue analytical laboratorybuilding, Amphitheatre and Biotechnologylaboratory and laid foundation stone for Agricultural Minister K. P. MohananDiamond jubilee auditorium, Alumni gate, inaugurates Diamond Jubilee Celebrationsnew students’ hostel and honey quality of CoA, Vellayanicontrol lab. ‘CoA’s contributions for state’s agricultural sector is noteworthy. I have always stressed Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran addre-on providing best possible facilities for students, which would reflect in their capacity ssing KAU Community on Republic Day 2016building. I am happy to inaugurate the new facilities.’, Minister said. Republic Day celebrations were Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran in his welcome address proposed to explore agri - held in various campuses of KAU. Ateco tourism potential of Vellayani campus. He reminisced that CoA, established in 1955 the University Head Quarters Vice-was the first and foremost institution in Kerala dedicated for agricultural science. He Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran hoisted theexplained various activities planned during the diamond jubilee year. national flag and addressed the gathering of teachers, staff, students District Panchayath Vice President Roufous Daniel, Kalliyur Panchayath President and labourers.Udayakumar, KAU G C member Rajiv Nellikunnel, Registrar Dr. P. V. Balachandran, FacultyDean Dr. L. Rajamony, SHM MD Dr. K. Prathapan, Organizing committee General In his Republic day message theConvenor Dr. S. Devanesan, Alumni Association president Dr. Abdul khader, University Vice-Chancellor said that KAU intendsfunctionaries and college alumni participated. to implement farmer friendly modes for technology transfer in order toSAARC Regional Meeting empower rural farming community inSouth Asian Seed bank Network proposed the use of advanced technologies to enhance productivity. He called upon the University community to play their roles in all initiatives to ensure food safety and nutritional security of all citizens. National Seminar On DNA of BrandsVice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran inaugurates the SAARC Regional Meeting The two day national seminar on DNA of Lasting Brands, organisedRegional Consultation meeting of SAARC of quality seeds is the key to enhanced by MBA (ABM), KAU on September 15 & 16 was inaugurated bycountries hosted by KAU on December 28-30 productivity. Therefore the seed quality and M. P. Ramachandran, Chairman and Managing Director, Jyothi Laboratoriesresolved to ensure food security in the region seed availability has to be ensured first.’, Ltd., Mumbai. KAU Registrar i/c Dr. P. V. Balachandran presided.and address the shortage caused by natural he said. P. Rajendran, Manging Director,calamities including climate change. Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung, senior programme KSFE Ltd. delivered the keynote address. George Thomas, ExecutiveThe meeting organised by SAARC specialist, SAARC Agricultural centre, in his Director, ESAF Microf inance Ltd. released the placement brochure ofAgricultural centre was inaugurated by presidential address proposed that India MBA and Dr. T. N. Jagdeeshkumar, Director of Students Welfare receivedDr. P. Rajendran, KAU Vice-Chancellor. In his should take the lead in establishing and the first copy. CCBM Associate Deanaddress, Dr. Rajendran proposed a network supporting seed banks in the region. Dr. A. Sukumaran, MBA course Director, Philip Sabu and Dr. A. M. Jose spoke.of seed banks among SAARC countries and Dr. S. Rajendra Prasad, Director, seedmaintain a common database of production, research, ICAR; Dr. Sajan Kurien, Director ofavailability and stock of seeds. ‘ The Research, KAU; Dr. S. Devanesan, Deananticipated population explosion makes it (Faculty of Agriculture, KAU); R. Ajithkumar,imperative to step up the production and Director, Department of Agriculture andproductivity of all crops. Adequate supply Dr. K. Prathapan, Director, SHM participated.

PAGE - 4 KAU NEWS Vol. XXII Issue 1Meteorological Day GC bats for Organic PoPObserved The 124th meeting of KAU General Council decided to formulate a comprehensive policy and package of practices for organic farming.Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran inaugurated world Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran shared the concern of the housemeteorological day programmes organised at Academy regarding the lack of clear guidance for organic farming. Raising the issue,for climate change studies and Research on March 23. Rajiv Nellikkunnel drew the attention of the house to the mismatch betweenIn his inaugural address, the Vice-Chancellor pointed moves to make Kerala a fully organic state and the non existence of aout that Climate Change, once a theoretical concept, has scientific package of organic practices. Dr. Jiju P. Alex pointed out thatnow embraced every walk of life. ‘While the common though a comprehensive organic farming package is yet to be developedman experience it as rise in temperature, water scarcity everyone is pushing the agenda resulting in application of unscientificand loss in crop productivity, scientists see it as a methods, which is inadvisable. V. S. Sthyaseelan stressed the need for aphenomenon which affect life and health of every living clear strategy in this regard and proposed a separate workshop forbeing. Whether hotter, drier or wetter, it makes life developing a comprehensive organic farming package. Vice-Chancellordifferent. Enhancing awareness and enabling research pointed out that an adhoc organic farming package is existing and assuredon it would only enable effective steps to mitigate it. I the house that a comprehensive package of practices will be developedproudly recollect that KAU is the first University in India with the involvement of all concerned.to have started a course on climate change. Let’s makeit meaningful and enterprising.’, he said. The Vice-Chancellor also assured that sincere and persistent efforts Director of Extension Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha presided. will be pursued for getting arable land in lieu of the land proposed to beDr. Jos C. Raphel made a presentation on water surrendered to Power Grid corporation.conservation methods while Dr. Sunil K. Mukundan Later the Vice-Chancellor assured the student leaders that the threedelivered a lecture on Agriculture and climate change proposed colleges will be constituent colleges in regular mode and theDr. E. K. Kurien welcomed the gathering and Dr. Alexander issue of restructuring CCBM Course will be discussed and resolved in Vice-George proposed vote of thanks. Chancellors’ meeting in April.Workshop on Human Wildlife Conflicts FAST Lab at CoH openedMeasures to ensure co-existence proposed KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran The two day Consultative Director of Extension Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha has said that unless the benefit ofWorkshop on Human Wildlife delivering the validictory address on 16 March advanced technology in soil analysis isConflicts in the Eastern and available to farming community, theNorthern Forest Circles of advancements in this arena wouldKerala: Issues and Possible become meaningless.Solutions held at CoF on15 & 16 March proposed a He was speaking after inauguratingseries of interventions to the new FAST (Frontier Advancedcontain and control conflicts Science and Technology) laboratorybetween humans and wildlife. attached to Department of Soil science and Agricultural chemistry at CoH, Apart from scientific practices like rail fencing, repellant against wild bores, alert Vellanikkara. The Vice-Cahncellor alsosystems and nylon nets, practical approaches like buffer farming including reintroduction stressed that every modern equipmentof native fruit trees and fodder in forests was proposed to forbid intrusion of animals acquired in laboratories should be putin to human habitats. to maximum use as it would become redundant once another advanced The workshop was inaugurated by Pramod G. Krishnan IFS, CCF (Wildlife), Palakkad equipment comes out. He also calledwhile KAU Director of Extension Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha delivered the valedictory address. for sharing of equipment instead of repeatedly procuring same machines. The farmer representatives insisted on validation and documentation of traditionalpractices and adequate compensation for crop loss and threat to life. Co-ordination Dr. Maicykutty P. Mathew, Associatebetween departments like Revenue, Agriculture, Forests, Tourism, Police and Local Self Dean CoH, Dr. A. I. Jose Former DirectorGovernment institutions was also stressed as a priority. Participatory programmes for of Extension, Dr. Koshy Abraham, formerwaste management in forest areas, awareness campaigns, farmer support programmes Associate Dean, CoH, and Dr. P. K.and wild life management strategies were proposed by farmer representatives. Sushama, Professor & Head, Dept. of Soil Science & Agrl. Chemistry spoke. Dr. P. S. Geethakutty, Head, Centre for Gender Studies in Agriculture and FarmEntrepeunership development was the moderator in the plenary session. Former KFRI A talk on ‘Modern concepts in labo-Director Dr. P. S. Easa, Former Forest officer M. I. Varghese, Dr. P. O. Nameer and ratory techniques’ was also held inDr. Mani Chellappan presented papers. Forestry college Dean Dr. K. Vidyasagaran, connection with the programme.Workshop Co-ordinator Dr. S. Gopakumar and Dr. Abdul Jabbar spoke.

Vol. XXII Issue 1 KAU NEWS PAGE - 5World Soil Day celebrations in KAU C.N.Jayadevan MP inaugurates soil day celebrations at Vice-Chancellor inaugurates soil day celebrations KAU Head Quarters at CoA, Vellayani World Soil Day on December 5 was celebrated in various Dr. T. E. George, Dr. V. S. Devadas, Dr. Alexander George,campuses of KAU. While C. N. Jayadevan MP inaugurated the Dr. K. Aravindakshan, Dr. P. Sureshkumar, Dr. P. S. John andfunction chaired by M. P. Vincent MLA at KAU Head Quarters, Dr. P. K. Sushama spoke. An exhibition on soil nourishment agentsVice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran inaugurated the programme and methodologies was also arranged.organised at CoA, Vellayani. Soil day was observed in otherresearch stations and KVKs as well. Inaugurating the soil day celebrations at Vellayani, Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran stressed the need to prevent Speaking after inaugurating a seminar on soil and man soil degradation and protect the soil to avoid the ecologicalorganised by Communication Centre at KAU central auditorium, disasters. The Vice-Chancellor distributed soil health cards toC. N. Jayadevan MP said that India cannot progress without selected farmers of Vizhinjam, Venganoor, Karavaram,enhancement of agricultural productivity, which heavily depended Kazhakuttam, Navaikulam and Aruvikkara as well as theon soil health. We have to re-invent the natural methods to certificates for the winners of the essay competition conductednourish the soil by which alone enhanced productivity can be in connection with commemoration of International Year of Soilsachieved.’, he said. 2015 and World Soil Day. KAU Director of Extension Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha welcomed Faculty Dean Dr. S. Devanesan presided over the function.the gathering and Communication centre head Dr. S. Estelittaproposed vote of thanks. KAU Executive Committee member Aji Dr. C. S. Jayachandran Nair, Associate Director of Research,Francis, RAIDCO Director P. R. Jayakumar, Dr. T. N. Jagdeeshkumar, Vellayani welcomed the gathering and Dr. Sumam George, Professor (SS & AC) proposed vote of thanks.Awards & Recognitions Workshop on Indigenous Knowledge in Organic Pest and Disease Management Dr. V. M. Abdul Hakkim, Head, ARS, Anakkayam was conferred with Outstand- The workshop on indigenous ing Achievement award during the knowledge in organic pest and international conference on Advancing disease management of vegetables Frontiers in Biotechnology for Sustainable organised by Thrissur KVK at Thrissur Agriculture and Health organised by called for retrieval, consolidation, Department of MCE in collaboration with preservation and popularisation of DST during February 25-26 at Allahabad. traditional know how in farming. Dr. Santhoshkumar T., Assistant The workshop recommendedProfessor, RARS Pilicode has won the Best that even while embracing advancedPaper Award in the technical session technology for added advantage in Inaugural address by M.P. Vincent MLAon Traditional Science in the 25th productivity enhancement, indigenous knowledge evolved throughSwadeshi Science Congress held at Sree practices of generations should not be allowed to become extinct.Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit,Kalady during 16-18 December, 2015. KAU Executive Committee member M. P. Vincent MLA, in his inaugural address highlighted the role of public involvement in production of safe Dr. Smitha M. S., Assistant Professor, CRS, Madakka- to eat food. Scientific analysis and recommendations of indigenousthara won the first prize for poster presentation in knowledge would enhance the efficacy of such practices, he said.National Seminar on Strategies for development of Corporation councilor Annam John presided over the inaugural function.cashew held on 19th and 20th February 2016 at Regional District Panchayath President C. C. Sreekumar was the guest of honour.Fruit Research Station, Vengurla, Maharashtra. Her posterwas about Alternate management strategies for the KVK head Dr. Ranjan S. Karippai, Associate Director of Research Dr. Jim Thomas, Associate Dean Dr. Koshy Abraham, Principal Agriculturalcashew stem and root borer, Plocaederusferrugenius l. Officer P. C. Sreeletha, Deputy Director of Agriculture V. S. Roy, Dr. Rehmath Niza, Dr. Mary Regina, Dr. Jalaja S. Menon and Dr. Prameela participated in the deliberations.

PAGE - 6 KAU NEWS Vol. XXII Issue 1Message from Vice-ChancellorWhy not a Separate Budget for Agriculture Our Union Government presents a general budgetand a separate budget for the Railways. Railway isbestowed with special attention as it is the main arteryof transportation of goods and people across India.Railways have been accorded top priority as it is aportfolio connected with the Indian masses. It ispertinent to note that India will remain a predomi-nantly agricultural country during most of the time ofthe 21st century, particularly with reference tolivelihood opportunities. So the demand for a separateand independent budget for Indian agriculture is verytopical. Agriculture continues to remain the backbone ofIndian economy. In spite of our advancements in thetechnological and industrial sector, agriculture andallied activities continues to provide livelihood opportunities to around 58 per cent of our total workforce. With 60% of theland being arable, India is the second largest country in terms of total arable land. Annually, Indian agriculture produces 264tonnes of food grains and contributes to ten percent of the total exports. No doubt, growth of this sector is an essentialperquisite for our overall economic growth. Despite all these facts, agriculture is not receiving due support in economic terms. Our goal of food self sufficiency can onlywork if agriculture gets the necessary attention it deserves. Public policy support is crucial for ensuring this. Though declarationsand promises to earmark considerable amounts for agricultural development and farmer welfare programmes are galore ineach year’s general budget, the outlays don’t become outcomes, due to the lack of proper attention, monitoring and evaluation.A better management is indispensable for turning the outlays into outcomes, so that the interest of real farmer is protectedand promoted. Agriculture cannot be seen separately from food and nutritional security. India’s food grain production has touched an all-time high, but the upcoming challenges in the form of climate vagaries, drop in land area, increasing population and the lackof interest shown by Indian youth to take up agriculture are bound to create problems. Enhancing productivity of crops andresurrecting the image of farmer to attract youth are indispensable steps. Production strategy with respect to food grains, cereals, pulses, fruits and vegetables needs to be streamlined and constantlymonitored. Regularistaion of input supply, stress on human resources development, capacity building of rural youth throughtechnology awareness, entrepreneurship development and industrial linkage etc. are vital in sustainable agriculturaldevelopment. In a country which suffers post-harvest losses worth Rs. 2 lakh crores, post-harvest processing assumes greatimportance. Synchronizing these activities need a single minded approach. Such an approach would become meaningful and effectiveif the activities for agricultural development are properly planned, adequately supported, promptly monitored and aptlymodified according to an evolving scenario. A separate budget will definitely be catalytic to agriculture, especiallyif involvement of professionals in the field is ensured while chalking out development programmes. Indian agriculture mustmove from the concept of food security for the masses to the concept of nutrition security at the level of every child, womanand man. Let this be a topic for discussion at appropriate levels.

Vol. XXII Issue 1 KAU NEWS PAGE - 7World Water day CoF hosts Training in GIS TechnologiesLet’s realise the Value of Water : VC The five day training programme on KAU V ice-Chancellor Dr. Remote sensing and GIS technologies P. Rajendran has said that the for spatial planning in Agriculture value of water is realised not when organised at College of Forestry was it is available in abundance but inaugurated by KAU Vice-Chancellor when it is scarce. Dr. P. Rajendran on March 19. Inaugurating the Nodal Water In his inaugural address Vice- Chancellor called for optimum use of GIS Technology Centre and a work- technologies for planning developmental activities. ‘GIS technologies and remote shop on water literacy organised sensing techniques help in identifying the real need through accurate analysis and in connection with world water day, synthesis of data, which in turn guide us to best planning solution. TheVice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran inaugurates the Vice- Chancellor said that variation and depletion of bio resources Water day celebrations at Mannuthy Kerala, which has forty four rivers, can be effectively assessed, realistic thirty lakes and umpteen ponds planning needs identified and remedial measures planned.‘, said Dr. Rajendran.and more rain fall than neighbouring states never thought of water scarcity. But the present Associate Director of Researchday picture, a very gloomy one, compels us to repent on the lavishness with which we Dr. Jim Thomas presided. CoF Dean Dr. K. Vidyasagaran offered welcome andspent this resource and the reluctance with which we approached water conservation K. Srinivasan proposed vote of thanks.programmes. Let’s evolve a realistic approach to water usage, water conservation and At Vellayanireuse of water., he said. The five day training programme on Remote sensing and GIS for spatial The Vice-Chancellor also released a software DVD on drip irrigation protocols. Executive planning in Agriculture conductedCommitte member Dr. Jose Joseph released a book on Agricultural water management at CoA, Vellayani was inaugurated byresearch in Kerala. Aji Francis, EC member released the booklets on drip irrigation and Dr. S. Devanesan, Dean, Faculty ofideal pumpsets for irrigation. Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha, Director of Extension presided over the Agriculture on February 29.function. Dr. Mary Rejina, Dr. P. S. John, Dr. P. K. Sureshkumar, Dr. S. Anitha, Dr. P. Indiradevi, Dr.Abdul Hakkim. Dr. K. P. Visalakshi and Mariyamma George handled classed on in situwater conservation, ground water protection, scientific drip irrigation, irrigation practicesin farms and rain water harvesting. An exhibition on water conservation and tools forirrigation was also organised in connection with the world water day.Poet Thirumumb’s home Fungus may aid cancer fightGets a makeover KAU has joined hands with The renovated resi- Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) to dence of the late poet, establish the anti-cancer properties of freedom fighter and social a rare genus of medicinal fungus that reformer T. Subramanian acts as a bio control agent against Thirumumb, which houses agricultural pest. the Centre for Studies on Farming Culture at RARS This fungus was first reported from Pilicode was inaugurated Kerala by Dr. T. Santhosh Kumar, on September 24. Assistant Professor, RARS, Pilicode, in 2013 while conducting research on managing the coconut root grub Minister for Agriculture K. P. Mohanan inaugurated (Leucopholisconeophora) affecting trees in northern Kerala. It was laterthe centre in a function presided by K. Kunhiraman confirmed as a species belonging to the Cordyceps genus known alsoMLA, Dr. P. Rajendran, Vice-Chancellor delivered the as caterpillar fungus.key note address. Director of Research Dr. I. Johnkuttypresented the report. P. Karunakaran MP, Nileswar Preliminary studies conducted at the RCC showed that the species isBlock Panchayath President T. V. Govindan, capable of suppressing tumour cells and inhibiting the proliferation ofKurumathur Grama Panchayath President M. V. lung cancer (adenocarcinoma) cells.Ramani, Cheruvathur Grama Panchayath PresidentM. Balakrishnan, Registrar Dr. P. V. Balachandran, “We will also explore the possibility of using the species to developDirector of Physical Plant Dr. V. R. Ramachandran nutraceuticals with immunity-enhancement, anti-aging and anti-fatigueand Associate Director Dr. K. Abdul Kareem spoke. properties,” KAU Vice-Chancellor P. Rajendran said. The major challenge faced in the research is culturing the fungus as it requires the grub or its larva as host. KAU has initiated efforts to identify alternative host species that would enable easier multiplication of the fungus. The scientists are also trying to understand the ecology and distribution of the fungus across Western Ghats.

PAGE - 8 KAU NEWS Vol. XXII Issue 1ISHS Conference highlight Horticulture Potential of Wayanad, Propose measures for sustainable growth of floriculture The international symposium on succulents and other While Dr. Rajeevan P. K. presented a paper on Orchid-centricornamentals organised at RARS, Ambalavayal highlighted the need floriculture development in Kerala, Dr. Sreelatha Unniyampurathu,to drive the greening of cities and people’s lives using ornamentals presented a paper on Significance of Ex situ conservation of Exacumso as to address the challenges confronting cities, society and bicolor Roxb. in Kerala, Smt. Smitha Revi presented a paper onindividuals. Insect pest complex of Rose at RARS, Ambalavayal and Dr. Alex R. presented paper on Quality flower production of goldenrod (Solidago The three day symposium jointly organised by International canadensis L.) through growth regulation.Society for Horticulture (ISHS) and Kerala Agricultural Universitywas inaugurated by Prof. Dr. K. V. Peter, Former KAU Vice -Chancellor Dr. T. Janakiram, ADG (Horticulture) suggested setting up of Heliconiaand Director, World Noni Research Foundation, Chennai in a function house, Ginger house, tree house, sun garden, Herbal garden etc.presided over by Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha, Director of Extension, KAU. for attracting tourists and also the concept of green offices. The Conference Venue-view from outside An inside view of the conference hall Dr. A. K. Singh, MD, National Horticultural Board, Dr. Sisir Kumar Wayanad District Collector Kesavendra Kumar IAS proposedMitra, Chairman, Tropical and Sub Tropical Fruits section (ISHS) the promotion of floriculture in Wayanad which can provideDr. Janakiraman, ADG, ICAR, Dr. M. Anandaraj, Director, IISR, livelihood for the tribal population in the district and plan forKesavendrakumar, District Collector, Narendra, DFO (North developing adventure tourism in Ambalavayal region.Wayanad), Dr. Anilkumar, Director, MSSRF, Wayanad, E. J. Jose,Farmer representative and C. K. Joy (MNREG) participated in the Inaugural session in progressdeliberations on final day. Dr. Sisir Kumar Mitra also suggested that International Rose Show and Orchid Show can be conducted at Wayanad and RARS Head Dr. Rajendran Pangath said that the symposium promised all his support in this regard.proposed an in situ conservation of orchids in forests, setting upa floriculture village and a network model station involving KAU,IIHR, IISR and MSSRF under ICAR patronage to sustain floricultureand horticulture growth in Wayanad. Dr. Tim Briercliffe, Secretary General, International Associationof Horticultural Producers (AIPH) presented the lead presentationon “Growing the global market for Ornamentals”. He pointed outthat Ornamentals are not just ‘ornamental’; they both can andmust play a key role in the future development of our cities andsocieties. Prof. Dr. Gert D. Groening, Garden Culture and Open SpaceDevelopment Institute for History and Theory of Design, BerlinUniversity of the Arts, in his presentation on “Urban Horticulture”pointed out that gardens were created and maintained only incivilisations. He cited the examples from ancient Egypt andinfluence of Roman urban garden culture.

Vol. XXII Issue 1 KAU NEWS PAGE - 9Pooppoli catalyses Agri development avenues Pooppoli 2016, global flori fest conducted by One of the fascinating sights in PooppoliKAU at RARS, Ambalavayal came to a close onFebruary 4. The third flower show and agrifest was raised tothe international level by incorporating an internationalsymposium on succulents and other ornamentalsunder the banner of International Society forHorticultural Sciences (ISHS) held from 24 to 27January. The spectacle showcasing imported attractions inaddition to orchids and ornamentals brought fromSikkim and Arunachal Pradesh attracted more thantwelve lakh people. ‘The exhibition showcased moderntechnologies in floriculture and horticulture facilitatingknowledge sharing between entrepreneurs, scientistsand international experts. This also brought to lightthe enormous potential of floriculture andhorticulture in Wayanad, which if properly tapped, can RARS Head Dr. Rajendran Pangath said that the total revenue form Pooppoli 2016 is set to exceed that of last year. ‘ While 2015 witnessed an inflow of 12 lakh people, the number of people who visited this year’s show in the first week itself exceeded it. The physical assets created from the show, such as new seminar hall for international symposium, cottages and a Replica of Tajmahal in Pooppoli ground Heavy turn out of People was another feature of Pooppolichange the fortunes of Wayanad farmers. The possibility of 1000 sq.m. polyhouse are permanent and reusable. The flowersgrowing and earning a fortune from flowers like Dahlia, Gladiolus, and ornamentals brought from other states will be retained andRose and Gerbera as well as fruit plants like Litchi, Raspberry, multiplied, providing a great opportunity for farmers andStrawberry, Rambutan, Avocado etc. is very bright. The new horticulturists. The show, overall, has been a grand success and Iagricultural college at Ambalavayal and allied facilities will spread am grateful to the KAU authorities, Government, ISHS, Districtawareness about agricultural science and importance of evolving administration and RARS family for the support and guidance’,farming technologies‘, said Dr. P. Rajendran, KAU Vice-Chancellor. he said.

PAGE - 10 KAU NEWS Vol XXII Issue 1CM Hails KAU Contributions, Promises Support Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has said that the CM inaugurates the new infrastructural facilities in KAU Main CampusGovernment will take all possible steps to protect, promoteand propel KAU to further heights. KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran in his welcome address said that the infrastructural facilities worth 97 crores have been Speaking after inaugurating various infrastructural developed in various campuses of the University to enhancefacilities at KAU Main campus on 28th September the Chief students’ amenities, research facilities and extension activities.Minister said that KAU’s academic excellence and researchaccomplishments are a matter of pride for the state. Government Chief Whip Thomas Unniyadan, C. N. Jayadevan MP, MLAs M. P. Vincent and P. A. Madhavan, District Panchayat ‘This university has attracted national appreciation for member K. V. Dasan, Grama Panchayat president Sujathaacademic excellence for five consecutive years and made Balakrishnan, KAU Executive Committee members P. A. Salam andsignificant contributions for the development of agricultural Aji Francis as well as University officers participated. Registrar i/cand allied sectors. Its stability and progress is indispensable Dr. P. V. Balachandran proposed vote of thanks.for the state’s development and hence the government willexplore all possibilities to solve the issues hampering itsunhindered growth. We will solve the issues of financialliability and dearth of human resources in a time boundmanner.’ he said. Agricultural Minister K. P. Mohanan in his presidentialaddress said that Kerala’s organic farming policy is fastbecoming a national perspective. ‘Union government hasendorsed it as a replicable model and more and more statesare joining the fold. KAU has a very important role to playin organic farming and its initiatives have been very relevantand noteworthy’, he said.National Workshop on Plagiarism & Farmers told to chooseResearch Publishing held Appropriate technology Eradicating plagiarism in C. N. Jayadevan MP inaugurating the Onion academic publishing is inevitable farming workshop held at Thrissur KVK for advancement and accomplish- ment of excellence, said M. P. Thrissur MP C. N. Jayadevan has called upon Vincent MLA. farmers and agricultural enthusiasts to choose the suitable variety and appropriate technology from Speaking after inaugurating a the pool of findings made available by researchers national workshop on research and traditional practitioners and not get publishing and plagiarism held at misguided by wrong trends. KAU Central Library, he said that plagiarism cripples individual Speaking after inaugurating the workshop capability to think and create and on Onion farming organised by Thrissur KVKM. P. Vincent MLA inaugurates the workshop hence eradicating it is a priority to on September 26, he asked the farming communityon Plagiarism and Research publishing held ensure research excellence suppo- to follow the experts and not the commercial at KAU central Library on January 29 rted by quality publications. interests. District Panchayat President C. C. Sreekumar presided over the function. KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran, in his presidential address describedplagiarism as an act of individual dishonesty and intellectual piracy. ’It has been State Agri award winners from Thrissur Districtmade mandatory that the guide should check every thesis for plagiarism with the were honoured in the function.aid of advanced software and furnish a certificate to the effect that such a scrutinyhas been conducted. We want to ensure that plagiarism doesn’t raise it’s ugly KVK Head Dr. Ranjan S. Karippai, welcomedhead in KAU and hence a series of workshops are being organised to train every the gathering and Dr. Jalaja S. menon proposedfaculty member in this regard.’, he said. vote of thanks. Academic Director Dr. T. E. George delivered Key Note Address. UniversityLibrarian Dr. A. T. Francis and training Co-ordinator V. P. Ajithakumari spoke.Dr. George Thomas, Sanjo Jose, K. V. Alphonsa, Muhammed Sageer andV. S. Swapna lead different sessions in the workshop.

Vol. XXII Issue 1 KAU NEWS PAGE - 11Water source, Hi-Tech Centre & ‘Agro Service Centres Should becomeHostel Inaugurated Activity centres’ ‘Our commitment to organic farming emanates from our The ten days training programme to concern for a healthy society. Safe facilitators of 36 Agro Service Centers to eat food is the primary spread across Kerala concluded at requirement for the health of Agricultural Research Station, Mannuthy future generations. KAU’s research on March 23. Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. backup is very relevant in this Rajendran was the chief guest. context.’ The cheaper and cute hi tech farming models conceived The Vice Chancellor advised the by the University is very relevant facilitators to act as spiritual leaders of and appreciable.‘ Minister said. agri farming of the state to bring all the KAU V ice-Chancellor Dr. P. cultivable land to cultivation and to have Rajendran presided. self-reliance in food production, through organic means. ‘The Agro Service CentersMinister inaugurates the Hi-Tech research Centre KAU Executive Committee should provide dedicated and committed member Aji Francis, Registrar i/c services whatever required by the farmer. Minister for Agriculture K. P. Mohanan Dr. P. V. Balachandran, Joint The Agro Service Centers are the realinaugurated the renovated water source, Men’s Director of Agriculture Anitha activity centre to establish and sustainHostel and Hi-tech research and training centre at Sivaraman and instructional Farm agricultural systems for that Block toKAU main campus on September 3. head Dr. V. S. Sujatha spoke. provide organic food. The Agro Service Centers should develop business plan toFarming lessons for SBT Managers achieve this goal and to create service providers with commitment.’, he said. The Agricultural orientationand billeting programme for SBT The function was chaired by ARS HeadManagers organised by KAU turned Dr. U. Jaikumaran, Dr. K. P. Prameela,out to be a unique experience for Professor offered welcome and Dr. A.the bankers and farmers alike. Latha, Course Director proposed vote of thanks.Sixty Mangers of the premier Women’s Daybank of Kerala were involved in the Observedtraining held in two batches. The first Women’s Day 2016 was observed in KAU with a series of functions. Centre forbatch of twenty five officers had their Gender Studies in Agriculture and Farm Entrepreneurship Development (CGSAFED)training and farm stay in Thiruva- A bank manager enjoys seedling organised a workshop on women’s health on March 8, which was followed by a freenanthapuram District under TSS, production at a farmer’s backyard camp for advanced Cancer detection on March 10.Vellayani while thirty five managers ‘The Life with the farmer programme was Dr. Maicykutty P. Mathew inauguratedattended the programme conducted the first of its kind in India where in SBT the programme on March 8. General Council member Dr. A. Prema, Forestryat Communication centre, Mannuthy. managers met the real farmer in his den, College Dean i/c Dr.K.Vidyasagaran, CGSAFED Head Dr. P. S. GeethakuttyThe programme, implemented through experienced his life style, mental agony, physical and KAU Joint Registrar T. B. LathaCTI, Mannuthy and coordinated by stress and strain, problems and difficulties participated. Adv. Seena Rajagopal spokeDr. Binoo P. Bony in Mannuthy and they confront day by day. The interaction about womanhood and law while should benefit both, but farmers will be the Dr. Sabnakrishnan spoke about cancerDr. Allen Thomas in Vellayani came ultimate beneficiaries.’, Said Dr. P. Rajendran, awareness.to a close on September 10. KAU Vice-Chancellor. The first module of schedule was ‘Our managers have really enjoyed theone week training on capacity programme, which has not only softenedbuilding in agriculture and allied them a lot but also induced a farming moodenterprises held in June-July. The in them. They have imbibed ideas in home-second module was Farm stay stead farming and organic farming. Mostprogramme in which two Bank importantly their feedback seeks suchManagers were hosted in a farmers’ training for all officers of the bank. We thankhouse for four days. The officers had KAU for the excellent support for this initia-a firsthand experience of agricultural tive.’ said S. Harisankar, General Manager, SBT.operations and different styles of KAU intends to conduct more suchfarming. programmes for officers of different banks.

PAGE - 12 KAU NEWS Vol. XXII Issue 1Agri Polytechnics will empower Dr. T. Pradeepkumar bagsYouth: Agri Minister Krishi Vigyan Award Agricultural Minister K. P. Mohanan has said that attracting and Dr. Pradeepkumar T., Asociateorienting new generation towards evolving technologies in Professor, CoH, Vellanikkara hasagriculture is the key to sustain the primary sector. been selected for the best agri- cultural scientist (Krishi Vigyan) Speaking after inaugurating the Agri Polytechnic under KAU at Award 2015.Haripad in a function presided over by Home Minister RameshChennithala, Mohanan said that developing a technologically The award comes in the wakeequipped youth brigade is the need of the hour. ’The new of innovative research leading topolytechnics will not only open up a new avenue for rural students development of two F1 varietiesbut also help them pursue higher education in respective fields. of seedless watermelon (ShonimaThe course content will integrate agricultural and allied subjects as and Swarna) and high yielding gynoecious hybrids of saladwell as thorough understanding of agricultural machinery.‘, he said. cucumber (Heera and Shubhra). These varieties developed by him within a space of three years has become so popular Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala in his presidential address among farmers. These indigenous varieties have arrestedsaid that he is happy to have the first of the four agri polyphonic the monopoly of multinationals on seedless watermelon andenvisaged in the state budget in his constituency. cucumber and enabled rural farmers access to such hybrids at costs much lower than that charged by multinationals. KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran in his introductory addresssaid that future of agriculture is technology driven and hence Dr. Pradeepkumar has undergone overseas training attechnically equipped man power is inevitable. ‘The agri polytechnics University of Wisconsin, USA. He has won Dr. Harbhajansinghassume importance in this context. The course will be a job oriented award in vegetable science and received awards in fourth,one on one hand and will also be a Window to higher education on fifth and sixth Indian Horticulture Congress for his researchthe other.’, he explained. accomplishment. He is the Managing Editor of KAU research journal, Journal of Tropical Agriculture. Municipal Chairperson Sudha Suseelan offered welcome andspecial officer Dr. R. Krishnakumar proposed vote of thanks. Thefunction was attended by KAU functionaries and LSG representativesin the district.SAARC to Offer Scholarships and ‘ONV Enriched our Life,Joint Academic Programmes Language and Culture‘ SAARC scholarships for UG and Arikil Nee Undaayirunnenkil,PG Students in KAU and close ONV Remembrance Programmecooperation between Agricultural organised at KAU Centraluniversities in the South Asian Library on February 24 wascountries and KAU are on the anvil, inaugurated by M. P. Surendran,said Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung, Senior media functionary.Programme specialist, SAARCAgricultural centre, Dhaka. Surendran said that the invaluable contributions of ONV Kurup in enriching the life, language and Addressing KAU Officers at the Dr. Tayan Raj Gurung listens to culture of Kerala will never be disremembered.University HQ, Dr. Gurung said that Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendranan integrated, interrelated, academic Surendran reminisced that literary works of ONVprogramme wherein the students enthusiastic and energetic boy who filled people’s hearts with real love and feeling ofgain the advantage of studying excelled in sports and games and he fraternity and upheld concepts of motherhood,multiple disciplines is the objective. appears more enthusiastic now. KAU mother tongue and love for nature.Dr. Gurung, an alumnus of KAU also will extend all possible help to realiseappreciated the fact that Kerala could his plans.’, he said. The programme was jointly organised by KAUsustain its ecosystems and prevent Library, Symphony - the cultural and Literarythem from collapsing. Dr. P. V. Balachandran welcomed the Organisation of KAU and CoH Readers’ Forum. gathering and Dr. Jim Thomas proposed KAU V ice-Chancellor Dr. P. vote of thanks. Director of Extension Dr. Joy Mathew, Comptroller presided over theRajendran, who was the teacher of Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha, Director of function. Dr. T. Pradeep Kumar was moderator.Dr. Gurung at CoA, Vellayani, said that Physical Plant Dr. V. R. Ramachandran,he felt proud to receive his student Associate Directors Dr. V. S. Devadas KAU General council member Dr. Jiju P. Alex,occupying an international position. and Dr. Pathummal Beevi, Associate University Librarian Dr. A. T. Francis, Symphony‘ KAU is extremely happy to have one Deans Dr.Koshy Abraham, Dr. K. President Dr. E. V. Anoop and Pournami Sreekumar,of its alumni in SAARC Agricultural Vidyasagar Dr. A. Sukumaran and Dr. Co-ordinator, CoH Readers’ Forum spoke.Centre. I remember Tayan as an Lyla Mathew, professor spoke. Thirty six persons presented poems and songs of ONV Kurup in the programme led by musician Dr. Sreevalsan J. Menon. Printed and Published by Dr. P. B. Pushpalatha, Director of Extension, Kerala Agricultural University. Editor: B. Ajitkumar, Public Relations Officer, KAU. Printed at KAU Press, Mannuthy