Agri Business Incubation(ABI) of ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru had organized one day training on quality vegetable seedling production on 27.6.2024. Dr. M. Thangam, Principal Scientist and Principal Investigator of the ABI Unit, extended a warm welcome to both dignitaries and participants. The training commenced with Dr. Manjunath B.L., Principal Investigator of the ITMU, elaborating on licensing horticultural technologies and encouraging attendees to capitalize on the training's opportunities. Dr. Prakash Patil, Acting Director of ICAR-IIHR, presided over the inaugural and closing sessions, emphasizing the potential of IIHR technologies, leveraging scientific expertise, and governmental support to foster entrepreneurial ventures. He underscored the importance of translating knowledge into practical applications for establishing successful horticultural enterprises.
Dr. Anil Kumar Nair, the Course Director, highlighted the critical aspects of producing superior vegetable seedlings, including necessary facilities, an overview of IIHR vegetable varieties, and nutrient management practices crucial for enhancing the horticultural entrepreneurial ecosystem. The training agenda encompassed comprehensive lectures on the requirements for quality vegetable seedling production, insights into IIHR varieties, cocopeat utilization, and best practices in nursery disease and nutrient management. Participants also visited IIHR's Centre of Excellence for Horticultural Crops to witness advanced techniques in vegetable seedling production.
Technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Anil Kumar Nair along with Course Co-Directors Dr. Shankar Hebbar, Dr. Selvakumar G, Dr. Kalaivanan D, and Dr. G.M. Sandeep Kumar. The training methodology emphasized hands-on learning, ensuring participants gained practical insights into scientific seedling production methods, identification of nutrient deficiencies, seed treatment techniques, plant growing media, and poly house construction.
The training attracted 12 participants from various regions across India, all eager to enhance their expertise in horticulture. Training materials included detailed technical presentations, and certificates were distributed to acknowledge participants' successful completion of the program. Dr. M. Thangam, concluded the event with a formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all involved in coordinating the successful execution of the training.
Overall, the program was coordinated by the ABI Unit at ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru.
