KAU News Letter January 2018

Volume XXIII ISSUE 1 January 2018Dr. R. Chandrababu VAIGA 2017takes over as KAU VC Let’s foster Agri business: Governor Dr. R. Chandrababu takes over as KAU VC Dr. R. Chandrababu assumed charge as KAU Governor Justice P. Sathasivam has Governor Justice P. Sathasivam inaugurates VAIGA Vice-Chancellor on 27 December 2017. said that agri entrepreneurship develop- 2017 at KAU Main Campus on December 28. He took over the charge from Shri. Teeka Ram ment is inevitable for enhancing farmers’ Meena IAS, Agricultural Production Commis- income. We are striving to develop a new farming sioner, who was holding the charge of Vice- culture by integrating post harvest Chancellor following the completion of term Speaking after inaugurating the handling with crop management. New of Dr. P. Rajendran on 31 October 2017. second edition of international workshop generation has to embrace advanced and exhibition Value Addition for Income technology in farming and processing. IfAgricultural production Commissioner Teeka Ram Generation in Agriculture (VAIGA 2017) at at least forty percent of our produce is Meena IAS welcomes Dr. R. Chandrababu KAU Campus, Vellanikkara on December subjected to value addition, farmers’ life Dr. Ranganathan Chandrababu, Professor 27, the Governor said promoting agriculture will be different. ’ Minister explained. and allied sectors is an ideal example ofin Crop Physiology, is the formerDirector, Cen- nation building and Government of K.Rajan MLA, District Panchayattre for Plant Molecular Biology and Bio Tech- Kerala has initiated many laudable steps President Mary Thomas and Ollukkaranology and Dean ( PG Studies) ,TNAU. He did in this direction. Block Panchayat president Umadevihis Post Doctoral research as Rockefeller Fel- spoke. Agricultural Production Commi-low at Texas University and Full bright scholar ‘Skill up gradation in farming sector, ssioner Teeka Ram Meena IAS offeredat Cornell University. He was appointed as the including processing technologies will welcome and Director of Agricultureeleventh Vice-Chancellor of KAU by the Chan- help to enhance farmers’ status and A. M. Sunil Kumar proposed vote ofcellor on 23 December 2017. income. Passion for farming is coming thanks. VAIGA, which culminated on back. Agri entrepreneurs should be December 31 was a grand success, both treated on par with technocrats. Value in terms of participation and attendance. addition of every crop should be our aim. VAIGA is a wonderful concept and opportunity to show case advanced technologies. Let’s together make Kerala a paradise for agri business entrepre- neurship.’, Justice Sathasivam said. Minister for agriculture V. S. Sunil Kumar in his presidential address said that VAIGA is not a mere exhibition but a forum for learning and sharing experience.Pooppoli 2018 INSIDE THE ISSUEMinister Bats for Millet Farming Research News, Awards & 2 Recognitions Minister for Agriculture Convocation, Scientific Insight 3V. S. Sunil Kumar has called Lecture Seriesfor promotion of Millet culti-vation in Kerala. GC Meet, ARS Centenary, 4 KVKs to aid rural developmentSpeaking after inaugura- Achutha Menon memorial Block, Bio-tech fest & Pooppoliting the closing ceremony of 5Pooppoli 2018 at RARS, Message from the Vice-Chancellor 6Ambalavayal on January 18, Organic Farming workshop, GI for more producesMinister said that a millet Minister V. S. Sunil Kumar inaugurates the valedictory function of 7 Pooppoli 2018village comprising of 32 tribal Pattambi RARS@90, Republic Day,colonies have been formed Institute of Millets for technical support for cultivation Book fest and workshop on IP 8to emphasise importance of and post harvest handling of different Millets. Areasmillet cultivation. where Millets can be successfully grown have been Agri Clinic, Plants for Dye production & Jackfest 9‘Millets, the super food, identified. We have also decided to identify and support Museums at CoF, Seminar on Urbanwill have to be popularised. tribal families involved in conservation of traditional horticulture & Cocoa Farming 10We are in touch with Indian crop varieties.’, he said. (Continued on page 5)

PAGE - 2 KAUNews January 2018Recirculatory Aquaculture model Off-season Production ofIFSRS, Karamana has developed a replacement is required only once in a Cabbage Hybridssuccessful model for recirculatory month, saving time, energy and labour. The study conducted at the Depart- ment of Olericulture, CoH, Vellanikkaraaquaculture. The simple but effective has identified two hybrids -NS 43 andfiltering mechanism incorporated in the The main components of the unit are Green Voyager-as high yielders in rainmodel facilitate reuse water, addressing a 2000 litre f ibre tank, a specially shelter.a major constraint in homestead designed five tier filtering mechanism on top of the tank, a submersible pump The study esta-aquaculture. blished the feasi- for recirculation of water between the bility of off-season cultivation of tropical tank and filter and pipes for inter cabbage hybrids in Kerala using rain connectivity. Each layer of the filter is shelters. Rainy season (May–September) in 5 cm in thickness and is composed of Kerala is an off-season for most ¾ inch metal, baby metal, sand, charcoal temperate vegetables and protected cultivation was the only known (made out of coconut shells) and alternative. Rain shelter, a low cost, naturally ventilated poly house is ideal sponge, in ascending order from the for off-season vegetable cultivation in the state. base of the container. The submersible The successful off-season cultivation pump enables continuous recirculation of vegetables in rain shelters offers good opportunity for farmers because of water so that the impure water is the vegetables so produced during off season will have good demand and get pumped to the top, filtered and is premium price in the market. returned to the tank. The sand, charcoal and sponge The main constraint in growing fish in needs monthly cleaning. The 2000 Litreartificial tanks is the needtoreplace water fibre tank accommodated as many asevery other day so as to counter the 100 GIFT (Genetically Improved Farmthreat of toxic ammonia build up caused Tilapia) fish, which gained up to 300 gmby accumulation of fish wastes. In the body weight in 7-8 months fetchingmodel developed by IFSRS, water good price.Awards & RecognitionsDr. N. Kishore Kumar, Cabbage Hybrids in the plains of Kerala Agrometeorological Practices forProf. & Head, T S S, coauthored by Malu K., Shanthi E.K. and Climate Resilient Farming and FoodVellayani was bestowed Ningappa Kirasur, presented in the Security (AGMET-2017) held at CCSwith Indian Society of technical session on Climate – Resilient HAU, Hisar during 12-14 October 2017.Extension Education Fellow Vegetables.award. The award, in The award was for the poster Lengthrecognition of his out- Anupama T. V., Asst. Professor, AICRP of growing period: A comparative studystanding contributions in the field of on Floriculture, CoH, Vellanikkara won the with normal and drought year in Kerala,Extension education, was conferred on Dr. first prize in e-poster presentation in the coauthored by B. Ajithkumar, NavyashreeKishore Kumar during the ISEE National National Seminar on Food adequacy and S. and Athira Ravindranseminar on Doubling farmers’ income Climate change: Strategies for Sustainableand farm production through skill Food Production organized by Association Dr. P. R. Geetha Lekshmi, Assistantdevelopment and technology held at of Meat Scientists and Technologists Professor (Hort.), Department of PostBAU, Bhagalpur from 28 to 30. (AMST), Kerala Veterinary and Animal Harvest Technology, CoA, VellayaniNovember 2017. Sciences University (KVASU) and Associa- received Fellowship from the Govern- tion of Food Scientists and Technologists ment of Netherlands for InternationalDr. P. Indira, Professor & Head, Depart- (AFSTI) during 3-4 November at Thrissur. short course on Horticulture Sectorment of Olericulture, CoH, Vellanikkara Development for Emerging Marketswon the best Poster presentation award (Parmotrematinctorum (Nyl.) Hale. held in Wageningen, Netherlands fromin the National Conference on Food and Parmeliaceae from Wayanad district, 15th May to 2nd June 2017.Nutritional Security through vegetable Kerala co-authored by Sheela K. B., Sajicrops in relation to climate change held Gomez, Suman K.T and Girija D. Dr. Haseena Bhaskar, Principalat Indian Institute of Vegetable Investigator, AINP on AgriculturalResearch, Varanasi from 9 to 11 Arjun Vysakh, PG Scholar, CoH and team Acarology, Department of Entomology,December 2017. secured Best Poster Presentation CoH, Vellanikkara was selected for Award in the National Seminar on Acarology Development Foundation The award was for the paper on Agrometeorology for Sustainable Scholarship, 2017 of Ohio StateOff-season Production of Tropical Development with special emphasis on University, USA for participation in the Acarology Summer Programme held during June 19 to July 7, 2017.

January 2018 KAUNews PAGE - 3Convocation 2017Minister calls for product oriented research KAU Convocation 2017 was held on 5 October 2017 atVellanikkara. Minister for Agriculture and KAU Pro-ChancellorV. S. Sunil Kumar declared the Convocation open. In his address Sunil Kumar asked the young graduates totake up the responsibility to modernize agriculture throughinnovation, scientific knowledge and creative thinking. Calling for a paradigm shift from production oriented Minister V. S. Sunil Kumar honouring Dr. K. P. Sudheer, first KAUagriculture to process and product oriented agriculture, scientist to be recognized as ICAR National Fellow in the convocationMinister further said that agriculture should go hand in hand ceremony held at Vellanikkara on October 5with nature. ‘Agriculture continues to be an important pillarof our economy and its future lies in the efficient use of scientists and farmers. I appreciate the role of KAU as onediminishing natural resources like land, water and energy. of the leading State Agricultural Universities of our countryKerala aims at an agricultural strategy of embracing Good with many accomplishments.’Agricultural Practices and a shift from chemically intensiveagriculture, but not by promoting fundamentalist postulates Vice- chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran in his welcome addressof total organic farming. New opportunities in productivity highlighted the achievements of KAU in education, researchenhancement and capacity building should be tapped by and extension. C. N. Jayadevan MP, K. Rajan MLA, formerharnessing nano technology, molecular biology, information Vice-chancellors Dr. K. V. Peter and Dr. K. R. Viswambharan,technology and geo–spatial technology.’ members of Executive Committee, General Council and Academic Council, Registrar Dr. S. Leena Kumary, Deans of Dr. Narendra Singh Rathore, Deputy Director General, faculties, Directors of Academics, Research, Extension,ICAR in his convocation address said that India is becoming Students’ Welfare, Planning and Physical Plant and Heads ofmore vulnerable to climate change and it affects 52% of institutions were present.population deriving their livelihoods from agriculture andallied sectors. ‘The situation warrants advanced technological Four hundred and fifty four students received theirinterventions and competent human resources are required degrees in person while 47 were admitted in absentia.to counter the impact of abiotic stresses on agriculture’ Dr. K. P. Sudheer, the first ever KAU scientist to becomehe said. ICAR national fellow was honoured in the function. Dr. Rathore pointed out that India, which has only 2.4percent of the world’s land resources and 4.6 percent ofwater resources supports 18 percent of the world populationthrough its agriculture system. ‘This magical transformationfrom a ship-to-mouth existence to a leading exporter of foodgrains is made possible by advancements in agriculturalscience and technology triggered by hard work of our farmScientific Insight lecture Series in Agriculture Launched Scientific Insight lecture Series in Agriculture (SISA), programme every month and registration is free. Resourcelaunched by KAU Extension wing has proved successful in persons are drawn from a pool of experts in relevant topics.attracting large clientele. The inaugural programme was on Good Agricultural Practices: process and protocols. The other topics selected for SISA The outreach initiative, named as Krishi Sasthra Sameeksha are New trends in Crop production, Precision farming,in Malayalam, is planned to educate the masses about Hydroponics and Aquaponics; New generation moleculesscientific perspective of agricultural practices and strategies in agriculture, Pesticide residues, pest surveillance andfor mitigating issues in the field. Twelve topics have been prediction; Micro nutrients for soil health management;selected for the monthly lecture cum interaction programme. Climate resilient agriculture, drought mitigation andTwo days are devoted for in depth interaction on each selected importance of Pulses; Integrated farming systems-practicaltopic. The programme is based on the concept that scientific guidelines; Environmental Engineering-Theory and Practice;knowledge will help those who work in the planning and Identification of forest trees and wood processing; Naturaldevelopment sector, besides the young and old, who are Resource Management-Principles of watershed development;inclined towards farming. Application of GIS in agriculture; Accomplishing Food and Nutritional security and Application of Bio technology in Director of Extension Dr. Jiju P. Alex said that thirty persons, agriculture.on first come first serve basis, will be admitted to the

PAGE - 4 KAUNews January 2018General Council meetFloriculture Research to be intensified KAU General Council resolved to The council also assured farmers’ be strictly adhered to in the recruitment,strengthen floriculture research to aid representative Cheruvayal Raman that the the demand of students’ representativesdevelopment of flori farming in the university will provide technical support to expedite hostel construction instate. for soil conservation programmes various campuses was also agreed to. envisaged under Haritha Keralam mission It was also agreed that Academy for The 130th meeting of the council of the state government. Climate Change Education and Researchchaired by Acting Vice-Chancellor will be strengthened.Tikkaram Meena IAS at Government The meeting held also decided thatGuest House, Thycaud on November University will extend technology back up The meeting was attended by25 took the decision pursuant to a to ensure quality of Seeds and planting Executive Committee members Adv.demand raised by K. V. Vijaya Das MLA, materials made available to farmers in K. Rajan MLA, Finance Secretary Minhajin relation to a question by Dr. T. the state. A mission mode approach will Alam, nominated and elected membersPradeep Kumar. Chairman assured the be initiated to enhance internal revenue including MLA s G. S. Jayalal and M.house that floriculture departments in of the university. Executive Committee has Vincent . Registrar Dr. S. Leena kumary,colleges under the university will be been authorised to work out modalities Comptroller E. P. Rajamohan, Deans ofrestructured and revitalised to facilitate in this regard. faculties, Directors of Research, Extension,development of floriculture in the state. Planning, Physical Plant and Academics While teachers’ representatives have were present. been assured that reservation norms willARS Centenary KVKs told to support Economic Development,Minister moots Mission to boost mechanisation Planning in LSGIs Minister for Agriculture V. S. Sunil Minister for Agriculture inaugurates the valedictory KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. RajendranKumar has said that a mission to of Centenary year celebrations of ARS, Mannuthy asked KVKs in the state to involve inpromote scientific mechanisation in on 2017 Dec. 23 activities for local economic developmentagriculture is being launched to and render technology support to LSGIsenhance productivity. presided over by K. Rajan MLA. Remote in planning and implementation of controlled power tiller, Family tiller, Brush development projects. Speaking after inaugurating the cutter operable by differently abledValedictory of centenary year cele- persons, documentary on 100 years He was speaking after inauguratingbrations of ARS, Mannuthy on Decem- of ARS and Directory of FSA members the meeting organised by Directorate ofber 23, the Minister said the idea is to were released in the function. Extension, KAU to review the activities ofcoordinate the efforts of agencies Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Kerala.involved ie. KAU, State Agricultural Corporation Councillor A. S. Ramadasan,Engineering Department, Department General Council members Dr. B. Suma, ‘Stability and strength our economyof Agriculture, KAMCO, KAICO etc. Dr. T. Pradeep Kumar, P. K. Sreekumar, depends on the development of local Dr. S. Estelitta, Dr. K. K. Sathyan, Dr. economic structure. Therefore the KVKs ‘Scarcity of labour is a fact and Sakeer Hussein, Bibin Chacko, Registrar have a key role in strengthening localmechanisation is the panacea to reduce Dr. S. Leena Kumary, Director of Extension economy by enhancing farmers’ incomeburden on farmers. The coordinated Dr. Jiju P. Alex, Director of Physical Plant and promoting agribusiness projects.’,mission will strive to assure availability Dr. V. R. Ramachandran, FSA special Vice-Chancellor said.of trained man power whenever and Officer Dr. U. Jaikumaran, ARS Headwherever required. ARS, Mannuthy, Dr. A. Latha and Pattambi RARS Associate Dr. D. V. Sreenivasa Reddy, Principalwhich introduced the concepts of Food Director Dr. M. C. Narayanan Kutty Scientist, ATARI, Bengaluru suggestedSecurity Army and Agro Service Centers participated. Director of Research that the KVKs should add Value addedwill be the hub of this mission and a Dr. P. Indira Devi welcomed the gathering agro advisory services in the servicesspecial officer has already been and Associate Director of Research Dr. menu.appointed. ‘ Minister said. C. Narayanan Kutty proposed vote of thanks. Dr. Jiju P. Alex, Director of Extension ‘ARS with its rich experience and presided over the meeting. Dr. P.hundred year old heritage should take Muraleedharan, Programme Coordinator,up research to develop different kinds Alappuzha KVK was felicitated for winningof implements for different regions. It the award for best Kendra in South India.should also initiate steps to formulatespecial development package of Kole Dr. Alexander George offered welcomelands.’, minister said. He also honured and Dr. Habeebur Rahman proposedthe former heads, staff and labourers vote of thanks.of ARS, Mannuthy. C. N. Jayadevan MP unveiled aplaque of centenary gate in the function

January 2018 KAUNews PAGE - 5Bio Tech Festival Achutha Menon memorial Academic &At CoA, Vellayani Research Management Block inaugurated A two day Biotech festival titled ‘DNA The new C. Achutha Menon memorial2K18’ and a Biotech exhibition, Miraikan Academic & Research Management blockwas organised at CoA, Vellayani on 17 at KAU main Campus was inauguratedand 18 January 2018. by the Minister for Agriculture V. S. Sunil Kumar on October 27. The fest hosted by B.Sc.-M.Sc.(integrated) Biotechnology students was Speaking after the inauguration Achutha Menon memorial Academic & Researchinaugurated by Minister V. S. Sunil Kumar Minister said that the new 40,000 sq.fton 17 January. Agricultural Production Management Block at KAU Main CampusCommissioner Teekaram Meena IAS was Block built with ICAR funding is thethe chief guest in the function presided fulfillment of a long cherished dream of Minister also laid the foundationover by Dr. A. Anilkumar, Dean, CoA. the University. stone for a new sports pavilion under state plan. The inaugural session was followedby a talk on Prospects & Challenges of The improved infrastructure facilitiesBiotechnology, Entrepreneurship & should encourage creative thinking and K. Rajan MLA presided over theStartups by Dr. G. M. Nair, Advisor, Kerala efficiency of research, the minister said. function. Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. RajendranBiotechnology Commission. Director ‘Government wants the University to lead welcomed the gathering and RegistrarGeneral of Police Loknath Bahra IPS, an agricultural renaissance in the state. Dr. S. Leena Kumary proposed vote ofFormer Inspector General Gopinathan IPS The enormous amount of research done thanks. K. V. V ijayadas MLA andand SAI Director, Dr. Kishore took part in and laudable results achieved should Madakkathara panchayath president P. S.the event. catalyse this. An action plan has already Vinayan offered felicitations. Members been drawn to strengthen the linkage of the KAU General Council, LSGI between KAU and department of representatives and officers and staff of Agriculture.’ he said. the university participated.(Cont’d from page 1)One more edition of Pooppoli unfolded in March and an area of ten hectares in RARS will be set apart for research on floriculture. In addition it has also been decided to host an international jack fest at Ambalavayal., he said. Minister said that steps have been initiated to ensure the quality of planting materials reaching farmers. ‘KAU has initiated a process of fixing bar code to materials produced in its farms. The procedure is to begin from Ambalavayal RARS. Department of Agriculture will procure planting materials only from government agencies, PSUs and KAU.’, he said. Popularity of Pooppoli reflected by intense crowd turnout KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. R . Chandrababu in his welcome address highlighted the potential of cut flowers export and Planting materials for the district will be produced at RARS. economic importance of Horticultural entrepreneurship. He alsoPooppoli will be conducted from January 1 to 18 every year. ‘, honoured six lead farmers from Wayanad district.he said. Minister also released the Pooppoli souvenir, Websiteand Facebook page. I. C. Balakrishnan MLA presided over the inaugural function I. C. Balakrishnan MLA presided over the function. attended by District judge Dr. V. Vijaya Kumar, District PanchayatC. K. Saseendran MLA honoured persons who played key rolein successful conduct of Pooppoli. LSGI heads, People’s President Ushakumari,representatives and KAU officials participated. RARS headDr. P. Rajendran offered welcome and KVK head Dr. Safia N. Ambalavayal Pancha-proposed vote of thanks. yat president Seetha The inauguration of Pooppoli 2018 was also done byMinister for Agriculture V. S. Sunil Kumar. Vijayan, KAU General In his inaugural address., the Minister said that an Council memberinternational floriculture symposium will be held at Ambalavayal Cheruvayal Raman, KAU Registrar Dr. S. Leena Kumary, Dire- ctor of Research Dr. P. Indiradevi, Director of Vice-Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu Agriculture M. Sunil honours Cheruvayal Raman, National Kumar, people’s repre- Plant Genome Savior Award winner sentatives and farmers.

PAGE - 6 KAUNews January 2018Message from the Vice-Chancellor DOUBLING FARMERS' INCOME- LET'S RISE TO THE OCCASION Agricultural researchers in general and KAU scientists in particularhave a key role to play in doubling farmers’ income. Understanding theground realities and piecing together a viable strategy is the challengebefore us. Agricultural scenario in Kerala is different from rest of the India inmany ways. Kerala agriculture is confronted with multiple challenges -fragment farms, assorted cropping patterns, diverse agro climaticconditions, geomorphic variations, socio economic factors, unprecedentedclimatic fluctuations etc. Abundance of home gardens, traditional wisdom,affinity towards science and a better level of perceptional ability on accountof higher literacy are encouraging factors while water scarcity, decline incrop area and withdrawal of traditional farmers are impediments. Though the average gross income of Rs. 11888/- enjoyed by an agricultural household in Kerala is much higherthan the national average of Rs. 6426/-, the net receipt of Rs. 4106/- from agriculture and allied fields is lower than thatof agriculturally developed states. This requires a comprehensive action plan for enhancement of farmers’ income.At the same time, the micro nature of farms and varied cropping patterns calls for customized and specific technologysupport. Thus the strategy for Kerala needs to be different from other parts of the country. Conversion of land, both arable and fallow, for nonagricultural purposes is a general tendency that needs to bearrested. Another notable trend is the shift from food crops to cash crops, which is mainly attributed to the conversionof paddy fields to coconut and rubber plantations because these perennial crops are more remunerative and relativelyless labour demanding. The long term effects of this conversion on food self-sufficiency and ecological issues demandsa reversal and revival of paddy fields and associated water bodies thus become a priority. The primary aim of intervention should be the development of a socially, economically and environmentallysustainable system. The strategy should also ensure self-sufficiency in food production, food safety and nutritionalsecurity, enhanced livelihood security of farming fraternity and conservation of natural resources. Harmonious integra-tion of crops and cropping systems will be an ideal platform for launching the strategical interventions. Popularisingalready developed high yielding and stress tolerant crop varieties in suitable locations, developing new hybrids, cultiva-tion of pulses and millets as intercrops, promoting of specialty rice varieties, revival of sesame cultivation in Onattukaratract, employing scientific nutrient management of crops, ensuring optimum utility of produces through proper post-harvest techniques, encouraging integrated farming systems etc., are feasible interventions for an inclusive strategy. Amarket intelligence mechanism to help farmers with accurate price prediction and regional storage facilities coupledwith marketing windows are other essential support mechanisms. Value addition of farm produces will further increaseincome. KAU has to increase the production of seeds and planting materials of high yielding, stress tolerant varietiesand hybrids of field and horticultural crops. The release of twenty three new crop varieties including saline tolerant ricecultures will impart thrust to such activities. Familiarizing farming community with new varieties and technologies shouldalso be taken up in collaboration with line departments. Our strong extension network can achieve more vibrancy byfostering a stronger bonding with departments and the present atmosphere is extremely congenial for it. Let’s makemore vigorous efforts to acquaint our farming fraternity with the vast menu of technologies designed for their benefitand help them choose the best option.

January 2018 KAUNews PAGE - 7Science is not a retrograde step: Minister Scientific introspections and corrections are as impor-tant as other research interventions, said minister for agri-culture V. S. Sunil Kumar. Speaking after inaugurating the curtain raiserprogramme of Kerala Science Congress and policy work-shop on organic farming: field realities and strategies heldat KAU's College of Forestry, Vellanikkara on, Minister saidthat science is a journey of progress and it corrects its ownmistakes and practices through scientific interventions. 'We have to explore the possibilities of restoring the vir- Minister addressing policy workshop on Organic Farmingtues of nature.', Minister said. 'If green revolution affected at College of Forestryhealth of our soil or obliviated indigineus varieties, we haveto restore those treassures and we have to develop tech-nology for that. Harnessing technology to suit our needs isthe challenge.Correction is not a retrograde step, and wedo it whether in case of plastic or pesticide. ' Sunil Kumar also called for varieties, breeds and prac- production and consumption, which guarantees calorific andtices to promote oragnic farming. ' Organic farming is not nutritional requirements. Sustainability depends on sustainingsomething to be laughed at or praised with romantic dis- pursuitof sustainable goals.', he said.courses. Scientists should come up with technologies to pro-mote oragnic farming. Without technical back up no fram- K. Rajan MLA inaugurated a Silviculture Museum in theing model will flourish.', he said. College. Director of Research Dr. P. Indira Devi, Director of Extension Dr. Jiju P. Alex and Dr. Binooja Thomas from KSCSTE KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu in his presidential briefed the programme of science congress. Forestry facultyaddress high lighted the need to adopt scientific practices Dean Dr. K. Vidyasagaran welcomed the gathering and Dr. A. V.for healthy farming. 'While enhanced production is needed Santosh Kumar proposed vote of thanks. Stake holders into ensure food security, food safety and nutritional security organic farming from different parts of the state participatedare factors of equal importance. We are also bound to en- in the workshop jointly organised by KSCSTE and KAU's Centresure purity of natuaral resources and indulge in responsible for Excellence in Environmental Economics.GI Tag for more products in the offing : VC Vice-Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu Vice Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu inaugurateshas said that KAU will strengthen activi- one day sensitization programme on GI tag for Nilambur Teakties to protect Intellectual property rightsof unique products from the state as well with College of Forestry, Kerala Forest General Council members Dr. S. Estelita,as that of newly developed rice varieties Research Institute, Kerala Forest and Dr. Sakkir Hussein, P. K. Sreekumar andwith flood, drought and salinity resistance. Wildlife Department and Nilambur Teak Bibin Chacko participated. Dr. C. R. Elsy, Heritage Society. Dr. E. V. Anoop and Dr. T. K. Kunhamu Speaking after inaugurating the one handled technical sessions. Forestryday sensitization programme on GI tag Director of Planing Dr. T. Pradeep Faculty Dean Dr. K. Vidyasagaran offeredfor Nilambur Teak held at Forestry col- Kumar unveiled the logo of Nilambur teak welcome and Dr. S. Gopakumar proposedlege, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the in the function presided over by the vote of thanks.genetic diversity in Western Ghats and Director of Research Dr. P. Indiradevi.unique agricultural products from KeralaState. Dr. Chandrababu stressed the needfor team work in achieving the goals in IPprotection and appreciated the scientistsof IPR Cell, staff and students of Collegeof Forestry and members of NilamburTeak Heritage Society for efforts toobtain GI registration of Nilambur teak. The long cherished dream of makingNilambur Teak the first forest wood toget GI tag was realised by three year longefforts by KAU IPR Cell in association

PAGE - 8 KAUNews January 2018Pattambi RARS Completes 90 Years The 90th Anniversary of RARS, Pattambi was inaugurated byMinister for Agriculture V. S. Sunil Kumar on October 14, 2017. Appreciating the research back up provided by RARS tothe farming community, the minister called for developmentof high yielding varieties so as to boost productivity. ‘Insteadof lamenting on the depletion of arable lands, we have to workfor enhancing production. Productivity enhancement will haveto be complimented by utilizing fallow lands in all panchayats. Itmay be done either by the owners themselves or by Farmergroups, by taking it on lease.’, he said.K.Krishnan kutty MLA inaugurated an exhibition ofagricultural implements and products in the function presided Minister inaugurates the 90th Anniversary of RARS, Pattambiover by Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran. Block Panchayat Kumary, Director of Research Dr. P. Indira Devi, Director ofPresident Kammukutty Edathol, Municipal Chairman Extension Dr. Jiju P. Alex, Principal Agricutural Officer Jessy,Muhammed Rasheed, Grama Panchayat President Murali, GC ATMA Project Director Irine and Associate Director of Researchmember Dr. Sakkeer Hussein, KAU Registrar Dr. S. Leena Dr. M. C. Narayanan Kutty participated.Republic DayCelebrated Plants for dye production IdentifiedKAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu KAU has identified plants for manu- dyeing were being explored. KAU techno-has called upon agricultural scientists tostrive for developing meassures for ada- facturing natural textile dyes, facilitating logy will be of great value in developmentptation and mitigation of perturbationsin climate which have upset our traditional a return to natural dyeing and escape of ecofriendly and safe clothing especi-cropping systems. from hazards of chemical dyes. ally for newborn babies and people allergic Addressing a Republic Day parade atthe University Head Quarters, Dr. The study undertaken as part of a to synthetic dyes. The biochemical pro-Chandrababu said that KAU is bound to WGDP funded project at CoA, Vellayani, perties of these natural dye compoundsextend technology support to Haritha has identified twelve indigenous plants have also been deciphered, so as toKeralam mission. 'Our priority should be capable of giving colour to textiles- Cotton identify the biomolecules in them.to improve natural resource use efficiencyfor sustaining the productivity gains and Silk. The technology for using these According to, Dr. G. Jayalakshmi,achieved. Conservation of our vastnatural wealth and traditional values is plants for commercial textile industry has Principal Investigator, twelve natural dyesone important aspect of nation building. also been standardised under another with five different mordants have beenRisks precipitated by climate change project sponsored by RKVY.being multi-faceted, their management screened. All silk and cotton material dyedtoo demands a multi disciplinaryapproach.’, Vice-Chancellor said. This has opened up the possibility with these pigments were tested in South University officers, staff, students and of using indigenous plants as dye Indian Textile Research Laboratory forlabourers participated in the parade heldat Vellanikkara. Republic Day celebrations yielders. The hazardous effects of colour fastness to light and stability towere organised in all colleges andResearch stations under KAU. chemical dyeing and chemical dye washing. Through this analysis combi- manufacturing had provoked a rethinking nations of natural dye and natural mordant and ways to return to natural agents for with good stability have been identified. Workshop on IP Protection A one day workshop on IP protection and doctors for the most vital contribu- of trait specific germplasm and traditional tions to our life.' He said varieties organised by KAU IPR Cell was inaugurated by Plant Genome Saviour KAU Director of Research Dr. P. Indira Award winner and General Council mem- Devi presided over the function. Registrar ber Cheruvayal Raman. Dr. S. Leena Kumary delivered keynote address. She highlighted the importance In his address Raman said that most of seed as the most basic and crucial pertinent question in contemporary factor of farming. farming is the ownership of Seeds and varieties. 'Having been involved in farm- Members of the General Council ing for almost sixty years, I have never Dr. B. Suma, Dr. K. Aravindakshan, Dr. Sakkir considered seed as a commodity. I never Hussein and P. K. Sreekumar, Director of sold it for money. I also believe that Extension Dr. Jiju P. Alex, IPR Cell co- farmer, who produce food, should be ordinator Dr. C. R. Elsy and ARS head honoured along with parents, teachers Dr. A. Latha spoke. The inaugural session was followed by technical lectures on IPR issues and parametres.

January 2018 KAUNews PAGE - 9Agro clinic a flagship programme : Minister The monthly agro clinic and farm Minister V. S. Sunil Kumar interacts with Agricultural Production Commissioneradvisory programme initiated by Directo- farmers came for Agro clinic and Acting Vice-Chancellor Teeka Ramrate of Extension was inaugurated by Meena IAS in his key note address saidMinister for Agriculture V. S. Sunil Kumar Government’s initiative on file to field and that strengthening the bond betweenon November 23. lab to land and it may soon become a farmers and farm scientists is the need national model. I appreciate the progra- of the hour and the interface is a welcome In his address minister said that mme and those who conceived it. step in the right direction. Consumerismconvergence of activities by different Scheduling regular visits of such expert should not impede agricultural progress.,research organisations and line panels to major agricultural zones would he said. Teeka Ram Meena also releaseddepartments is essential for progress. also be a welcome step.’, he said. video CDs on Agriculture for social media streaming. ‘Farmer-scientist interface is a well K. Rajan MLA, in his presidentialthought out programme to link the address highlighted the need for more Director of Research Dr. P. Indira Devistakeholders for promotion of such popular programmes so that presented the expert panel recommen-agriculture. The presence of farmers, farmers realise that KAU is supportive dations. Principal Agricultural Officerextension officers and experts on a and responsive. Abdul Majeed explained the project.common platform bonds the triangular Agricultural Faculty Dean Dr. A. Anilrelationship to foster productivity and Kumar, Director of Extension Dr. Jiju P.farmers’ income. The earnest efforts of Alex, Director of Planning Dr. T. PradeepKAU scientists and department officers Kumar and Communication Centre headand warm response from farming Dr. Binoo P. Bony spoke.community emanates positive signals.This flagship programme complimentsSpread awareness on International JackfestClimate Change: MP Global Research Centre mooted C. N. Jayadevan MP has highlightedthe pertinence of spreading awareness Minister for Agricultureon climate change mitigation measures. V. S. Sunil Kumar has mooted an international research In his inaugural address at the semi- centre for Tropical fruits atnar on Change in Climate-Change in Ambalavayal.agricultural practices at Thrissur KVK on4 December 2017, Jayadevan said that He was speaking afterimpact of climate change in agriculture is inaugurating the Internationalcritical and hence public in general and workshop on Production,farmers in particular have to be made Value addition and Marketingaware of remedial measures. ' The ram- of jackfruit organised by KAUpant changes is climate has become a in colla-boration with Depart-routine phenomenon affecting the food ment of Agriculture, TFnet,production and availability of food grains. Malaysia and ICAR.Research on climate change and mitiga-tion meassures is very important, but ‘This workshop should be Minister V. S. Sunil Kumar inaugurating the Internationalequally or more important are the aware- a begi-nning, not an end. Weness programmes. I congratulate KVK and Jackfest at AmbalavayalField Publicity wing for joining hands for want to promote value additionthis genuine purpose.,' he said. and marketing of jackfruit, and other event hosted by the University has Director of Extension Dr. Jiju P. Alexpresided over the function. Field public- tropical fruits also for that matter, and facilitated sharing of knowledge, exper-ity Assistant Director K. A. Beena, KVKhead Dr. A. Prema and Field publicity the international tie up and interaction tise and experience.officer Sudhakara spoke. Dr. GeorgeThomas handled the class on change in during this workshop will be a catalyst C. K. Saseendran MLA, Agriculturalcropping patterns due to climate change for setting up a global research centre Production Commissioner Tikkaramand Deepa S. Pillai talked about agricul- here. Help and support of union Meena IAS, District Judge V. Vijaya Kumar,tural development programmes of government will be sought to promote TFNet CEO Mohammed Desa Hassim,NABARD. jackfruit, a natural and unadulterated fruit KAU Officers, LS GI representa-tives and with nutritional and medicinal properties.’ farmers participated. The technical Minister said. sessions of international workshop KAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Rajendran, was attended by an array of renowned in his presidential address, said that the experts.

PAGE - 10 KAUNews January 2018Tale of Two museums at College of Forestry The Silvicultural Museum and timber area. The unscientific land use changes complemented by state-of–the-artmuseum at KAU’s College of Forestry posing serious threats to the agricultural facilities for accurate identification ofimpart enticing lessons on forests and prosperity through drastic reduction in timber specimens sent by variousforestry. the water yield from the Western Ghats, departments, agencies and the public. the need for the conserving remainingMinister V.S.Sunil Kumar and K. Rajan forests to maintain ecological balance The department also undertakesMLA keenly watching the Silviculture and hydrological functioning is Wood Quality Assessment of timbersmuseum at CoF highlighted here. using conventional and Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods using acoustic The Silvicultural Museum in the Dept. Need to enhance tree farming outside tools. It also acts as a special trainingof Silviculture and Agroforestry, opened the conventional forest areas and its facility for the students and techniciansby K. Rajan MLA in the presence of economic as well as ecological benefits with emphasis on training in frontierMinister V. S. Sunil Kumar and Vice- are delineated. Pictorial representation areas in Wood Science such as tissueChancellor Dr. R. Chandrababau on of suitable agro forestry models, ideal processing, microtome, and microscopy.January 10, provides information about tree species for farm forestry and agro A Coconut Wood Technology Demon-scientific tree farming techniques and forestry, Scientif ic tree cultivationspread awareness on the challenges practices and nursery techniques for A view of Timber Museum at CoFconfronted by forests and agricultural production of healthy tree seedlings, their stration Centre (CWTDC) attached to thesector and the possible options for planting design, staking and alignment, department offers special trainingtheir revival. pit making and pest and disease facility for the students and technicians management of various forest tree to encourage processing of coconut The Museum portrays historical species are also well explained, accor- palm wood.perspectives of forests in Kerala with ding to Dr. T. K. Kunhamu, Head, Depart-rich forest treasure shrinking to nominal ment of Silviculture and Agroforestry. Timber museum and xylarium The Timber Museum and Xylarium is housed in the department of Forest Products and Utilization headed by Dr. E. V. Anoop. Timber discs and wood specimens of 145 species of forest trees from within the country as well as from abroad are exhibited here. This isCall to Merge Modern Seminar on Cocoa farmingTechniques and Tradi-tional knowhow Minister for Agriculture V. S. Sunil remunerable prices and the ease in The two day seminar on Spices in Urban Kumar has said that varieties, agro management.Horticulture conducted by Departmmentof Plantation crops, CoH at Model spice techniques and processing technolo- ‘KAU has been leading cocoanursery, Vellanikkara was inaugurated by gies developed by KAU Cocoa research research in the country for a long timeC. N. Jayadevan MP. station will be popularised. and 90% of cocoa cultivation in India is In his inaugural address Jayadevan high-lighted the need for linking traditional wisdom Speaking after inaugurating the established with our cocoa hybrids.with modern practices. 'KAU's initiatives to seminar organised by the Cocoa Cocoa has gained acceptance as oneequip farming community with modern tech- research station at Vellanikkara on of the most compatible intercrop innologies and advanced techniques has been coconut, arecanut, rubber and oil palmfruitful. Taking horticulture to urban areas is a January 29, the minister pointed out plantations.’, he said.welcome initiative which would change the that the ongoing research collaborationatmosphere in urban colonies.', he said. between KAU and Cadbury is an Madakkathara panchayath president KAU Executive Committee member K.RajanMLA presided. Dr. Homy Cheriyan, Director, exemplary example of highly succe- P. S. Vinayan, KAU General CouncilDirectorate of Arecanut and Spices, Dr. GeorgeThomas, Associate Dean, CoH and Dr. P. V. ssful and sustainable public-private members Dr. A. Anilkumar, Dr. T.Nalini, Head, Department of Plantation cropsspoke. Director of Research Dr. P. Indira Devi partnership. Such collaborations have Pradeep Kumar, P. K .Sreekumar andoffered welcome and Dr. Mini Raj proposed Dr. Sakkir Hussein, Director ofvote of thanks. to be promoted, he said. Research Dr. P. Indira Devi, Director Vice-Chancellor Dr. R. Chandrababu, of Extension Dr. Jiju P. Alex and Cocoa in his presidential address said that research station head Dr. B. Suma Cocoa has regained the popularity spoke. The inaugural session was among the Indian farmers on account followed by technical sessions on of a reasonable return, regular income, cocoa farming. Printed and Published by Dr. Jiju P.Alex, Director of Extension, Kerala Agricultural University. KAUP 106/350/03/2018 Editor: B.Ajitkumar, Public Relations Officer, KAU. Printed at KAU Press, Mannuthy