Kodagu, 19th October 2024 – The Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES), Chettalli, a regional station of the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR), successfully conducted an Awareness Programme on the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPV&FR) Act, coupled with a Fruit Diversity Show and a Field Day focusing on Mangosteen and Rambutan. The event, organized in collaboration with the Society for Promotion of High-value Exotic Horticultural Crops and the PPV&FR Authority, brought together farmers, scientists, and dignitaries from across the region to celebrate advancements in exotic fruit crops and plant variety rights.
The day began with an exciting field visit and avocado planting ceremony, led by the Director of ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru, alongside esteemed guests. Participants witnessed firsthand the cultivation practices of these high-value crops, emphasizing the importance of sustainable horticultural practices and the protection of diverse plant varieties.
Afterward, the guests and participants proceeded to the exhibition hall, where a wide array of exotic fruit crops, including varieties of rambutan, mangosteen, and avocado, were showcased. The exhibition was officially inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairperson of the PPV & FR Authority, Dr. Tusar Kanti Behera, Director, ICAR-IIHR and other dignitaries, who lauded the efforts of the organizing team in promoting awareness around the cultivation and diversity of these fruits. The farmers from the region exhibited the traditional and exotic fruits they are growing on their farms.
The inaugural function kicked off with a warm welcome extended to the dignitaries by Dr. Rani A.T., setting the tone for the day’s activities. Dr. Sankaran M., Principal Scientist and Head of the Division of Fruit Crops, ICAR-IIHR, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the role of CHES-Chettalli in promoting horticultural innovations, particularly in the context of fruit crops like mangosteen and rambutan, which have gained increasing importance in India.
Shri Bose Mandanna, Former Vice Chairman of the Coffee Board and a prominent planter from Suntikoppa, took the stage as the Guest of Honour. He shared insights from his experience in horticulture and spoke on the importance of embracing new technologies and practices to improve crop productivity and quality in the Kodagu region. He also emphasised that under the changing climate scenario, the planters have to diversify their farms with traditional and exotic fruits and also to form Farmers Producing Organisations (FPOs) to market their produce so that their farm income gets increased.
Extension folders containing valuable information on the cultivation of Rambutan and Mangosteen crops were released, followed by the felicitation of progressive farmers who have made significant contributions to the cultivation and promotion of wild native and high-value fruit crops.
Prof. T.K. Behera, Director of ICAR-IIHR, then addressed the gathering, focusing on the crucial role of farmers’ rights and the efforts needed to conserve and promote plant varieties. His speech set the stage for the key objectives of the day—encouraging the adoption of the PPV & FR Act to protect the rights of farmers and plant breeders alike. He also added that the ICAR-IIHR headquarters is committed for more support to the CHES Chettali centre and all efforts would be made to take up more activities and support to the farmers of the region.
A series of important events followed, including the exchange of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Shloka Agro Pvt. Ltd for Licence of Rambutan variety Arka Coorg Arun. And the release of farmers' varieties of jackfruit - Harigold (JK 2/24) and Thirumala (JK 12/24). The signing of MoUs with custodian farmers for jackfruit Harigold (JK2/24) and Thirumala (JK 12/24)) and Tamarind (Lakshmana) and handing over the cheques to custodian farmers under the ABS (Shankara and Lakshmana) was done. The event also featured videos showcasing the success stories of Siddu and Shankara, local farmers who have achieved remarkable success with these crops. The publications on farmers' varieties of jackfruit - Harigold (JK 2/24), a novel jackfruit variety with high nutritive value and golden yellow flakes; Thirumala (JK 12/24), a superior quality jackfruit variety with attractive turmeric yellow flakes were released.
The chief guest, Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Chairperson of the PPV&FR Authority, delivered a compelling address on the significance of the PPV&FR Act, particularly in protecting the intellectual property rights of farmers and ensuring their rightful share of benefits through the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanism. He emphasized the need for active participation from farmers in claiming their rights and encouraged greater collaboration between the farming community and research institutions. Addressing the young students who had come forward in safeguarding the diversity at their father’s farms, said that youth should be in forefront in the conservation of biodiversity. He urged the scientists of ICAR-IIHR to extend all support for the registration of the varieties developed by the farmers with the PPV&FR Authority.
The technical session that followed deeper insights into the PPV&FR Act, led by Dr. Vasugi C., Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIHR. She provided a comprehensive overview of the Act and how it serves to empower farmers while protecting indigenous plant varieties. Dr. Muralidhara B.M., Scientist, CHES-Chettalli, followed with a session on the production technology of mangosteen and rambutan, covering the latest advancements in cultivation techniques, pest management, and market opportunities for these high-value crops.
The day concluded with an engaging interaction between farmers and scientists, where attendees had the opportunity to discuss challenges, share knowledge, and seek expert advice on the cultivation of exotic horticultural crops. The open dialogue between farmers and researchers fostered a sense of collaboration, with both parties exchanging ideas to enhance fruit production in the region. The best exhibits of the farmers were adjoined with cash prizes, best exhibit awards & certificates.
The programme was a resounding success, reflecting the growing interest in exotic horticultural crops like mangosteen and rambutan. By focusing on the PPV&FR Act and bringing together farmers, scientists, and policy experts. The event reinforced the need to protect plant diversity, promote sustainable farming practices, and ensure the welfare of the farming community.
For more details on the event or to explore future collaborations, please contact ICAR-IIHR, CHES-Chettalli at chesc.iihr@icar.gov.in or 7892885321
