Dr. Prem Nath attended the Meeting of the
SEAVEG (Regional Symposium on Southeast Asian
Vegetables) held on November 26, 2012 at 1330
hrs at Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand.
VEGINET represented by Dr. Prem Nath
participated in the meeting of the SEAVEG – 2014
Search Group and International Organizing Committee
was held on May 29, 2012 at the FAO/RAP premises,
Maliwan Mansion, 39 Phra Athit Road, Bangkok –
10200, Thailand.
Dr. Prem Nath visited the Rural Bio-Resource
Complex Project (RBRC) in Tubagere Hobli of
Doddaballapura Taluk, as a guest member of the team
led by Dr. K. Narayana Gowda, Vice Chancellor,
University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore
with H. E. the Governor of Karnataka, Dr. Hans
Raj Bhardwaj as the Chief Guest on June 18,
2011.
On March 15, 2011 Dr. Prem Nath held a
detailed discussion with Dr. Yuniarti, an
Executive Member of VEGINET and his colleague Dr.
Rofik Sinung Basuki. Dr. Yuniarti and Dr. Rofik
briefed about their ongoing activities in Eastern
Java. Among other crops they emphasized on improving
the quality and production of potato and shallot in
the region and invited assistance on improved
technology and availability of improved seeds.
Dr. Nath agreed to connect Dr. Yuniarti
with Central Potato Research Institute, Simla and
AVRDC Southeast Asia Office, Bangkok.
On March 17, 2011, along with the participants of
VEGSEA 2011, Dr. Nath visited vegetable
fields near Kopeng area.
On January 28, 2011 Dr. Prem Nath visited
Junagadh Agricultural University Campus at Junagadh
and held detailed discussion with the
Vice-Chancellor, Dr. N.C. Patel. Dr. Patel
briefed Dr. Nath of the organizational set-up,
staff and infrastructure of the university and
provided him with relevant publications. The VC’s
office had electronic connectivity with televised
system to all offices, departments, and colleges.
The correspondence was done online and the budget,
request for expenditure and its approval were done
online. The new laboratories with modern equipment
had a common facility accessible to all departments,
staff and students and farmers and testing of all
samples were done under the same roof. The guest
houses adequate in number were well-designed and
equipped.
On March 16, 2011, Dr. Prem Nath held a
discussion with Executive Members of VEGINET,
Prof. Michael Boehme, University of
Berlin, Germany and Dr. Yuniarti, Assessment
Institute for Agricultural Technology (AIAT) East
Java, Malang, Indonesia. Dr. Nath briefed
them about the upcoming Regional Symposium-High
Value Vegetables in Southeast Asia: Production,
Supply and Demand (SEAVEG-2012), scheduled January
24-26, 2012 in Pang Suan Keaw, Chiang Mai,
Thailand. The members showed interest in the
Symposium and appreciated the efforts of VEGINET.
Dr. Nath encouraged them to present papers to
the symposium. They were provided with the
announcement of HIVEGSEA-2012.
Dr. Prem Nath visited the FAO Regional Office
for Asia and Pacific in Bangkok on November 21,
2011, and held discussion with Mr. Hiroyuki
Konuma, Assistant Director General and Regional
Representative for Asia and the Pacific in his
office.
On September 15, 2011, Dr. Prem Nath visited
the office of the recently established Agribusiness
and Rural Development Consultants (ARDC) and held
discussion with the Chief Executive Officer, Mr.
Tin Htut Oo, who was formerly the Director
General of Agriculture Planning, Ministry of
Agriculture and Irrigation, Myanmar. The private
company ARDC team consists of Board of Technical
Adviser with qualified and experienced members from
Myanmar and Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia,
Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand,
Bangladesh, India, Korea and Japan.
On September 14, 2011, Dr. Prem Nath visited
the office of the FAO Representative in Yangon. He
held meeting as scheduled with the officials
present, namely Dr. Bir. C. Mandal, Chief
Technical Advisor (UNJP/MYA/074/UNO); Dr. Maung
Mar, National Project Manager, Environment
Sustainable Food Security Programme; Mr. Saw Ler
Wah, National Project Manager, Oil Development
Project; and Mr. Thu Kha, Programme
Assistant. The officials explained about their
programme and project activities in the area of food
and agriculture.
On September 14, 2011, Dr. Prem Nath held a
meeting with the senior officials of the Myanmar
Agriculture Service at its campus in Yangon. It was
informed that Ministry headquarters had shifted from
Yangon to the new capital Naypyidaw. The members
present were Dr. Maung Maung Yi, General
Manager (Planning); Mr. Thet Zin Maung,
Director, Fruit and Vegetable Research and
Development Centre (VFRDC) and Dr. San San Yi,
Manager (Biotechnology). The members appreciated the
meeting of the agricultural research states
particularly of vegetables.
During the XXX Group Meeting of the AICRPV held at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology (GBPUAT),
Pantnagar, Udhamsinghnagar, Utrakhand during January
13-16, 2012, Dr. Prem Nath visited seed
multiplication farm where breeders and commercial
seeds were produced on a large scale. This ensured
purity of seeds as well as availability of seeds to
farmers of the region at the same time generated
income and facilitated proper utilization of
available cultivable land.
The VEGINET General Body Meeting was held during
Regional Symposium- High Value Vegetable in
Southeast Asia: Production, Supply and Demand (SEAVEG
2012), Chiang Mai, Thailand on January 24, 2012 at
1800hrs. About thirty members from different
countries participate in the meeting.
On February 22, 2012, Dr. Prem Nath made a
courtesy call upon H. E. Dr. Hans Raj Bhardwaj,
Governor of Karnataka at Raj Bhavan, Bangalore.
H. E was appraised of the recent activities of the
PNASF and VEGINET. H. E. recognized the importance
of agriculture and made reference of the innovative
steps in improving dry farming and further
involvement of the cooperate sector in agriculture,
as recommended by the President of India.
Dr. Prem Nath made a courtesy call upon
Hon. Shri. T.B. Jayachandra, Minister for Law,
Justice and Human Rights; Parliamentary Affairs and
Legislation; and Animal Husbandry, Government of
Karnataka on June 07, 2014. He took the
opportunity to present the Hon. Minister with the
photo and news paper documents of the earlier PNASF-Book
Release Ceremony where he was the Guest of Honor
organized at Raj Bhawan, Bangalore. The Minister was
pleased with the contribution and function organized
by the PNASF.
On April 08, 2013, Dr. Prem Nath made a
courtesy call on Dr. Peter E. Kenmore,
Resident Representative of the Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations in New Delhi.
They had a detailed discussion on relevant issues on
food and agriculture particularly in the area of
urban and peri-urban agriculture.
On behalf of the PNASF, Dr. Prem Nath made a
courtesy call on H.E. Dr. Hans Raj Bhardwaj, the
Governor of Karnataka on March 13, 2013 at Raj
Bhawan, Bangalore. Dr. Nath extended his
grateful thanks to His Excellency for gracing the
occasion of the Late B.R. Sen Memorial Lecture and
Book-Release Ceremony, as the Chief Guest on
February 04, 2013. On this occasion the book
entitled, “The Basics of Human Civilization - Food,
Agriculture and Humanity, Volume-I-Present Scenario”
and the new-year issue of PNASF News Letter
published by PNASF were released. His Excellency
appreciated the programme, the new book and
newsletter and complimented PNASF and the authors
and editors for publishing and disseminating such
useful information in the public interest
particularly among intellectual community. His
Excellency encouraged the PNASF to undertake such
programmes at academic centre of the state and
nation.
On April 29, 2013, Dr. Prem Nath had a
working lunch with Mr. H. Konuma, ADG/RR, FAO
office for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok,
Thailand. Mr. Konuma was accompanied by
Dr. Subhas Dasgupta, FAO Plant Production
Officer. The discussion focused on the subject of
Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture. The usefulness of
UPAFSA-2013 held in January, 2013 was highlighted in
terms of large participation, and rich in contents
for the benefit of all member countries of the
region. Dr. Nath flagged the UPAFSA-2013
discussion and recommendations particularly in the
area of Horticulture and Livestock. The availability
of technology and need for research for UPA and
other elements to be put together for the benefit of
practioners. Also, reference was made on the
collective information and documentation on UPA.
Reference was made on participate in the upcoming
SEAVEG-2014. Dr. Nath thanked Mr. Konuma
and his collogue for useful discussion and
hospitality.
On behalf of the PNASF, Dr. Prem Nath
attended the ninth Special Lecture organized on the
occasion of the 86th Birthday Celebration of
respected Shri M.V. Rajasekharanji, former
Union Minister of State for Planning, Government of
India at Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan, Bangalore on
September 12, 2013. The event was organized by the
M.V.R. Foundation, a Charitable Trust for Promotion
of People’s Dialogue for Sustainable Rural
Development and Food Security System located in
Bangaluru-560004. It was attended by about 500
people from all walks of life including dignitaries,
academicians, politicians and farmers.
Participated in the AgTech Global Summit 2012
organized by the Bejo Sheetal Bio-Science
Foundation, Aurangabad, Maharashtra in collaboration
with the Michigan State University (USA), Bejo
Sheetal Seeds Pvt. Ltd., Aurangabad and Mahatma
Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri. Seminar on “India’s
Development-Current Scenario” and award presentation
on November 25, 2012 at The Citrine Hotel, Bangalore
organized by the Integrated Council for
Socio-Economic Progress (ICSEP), Thrissur, Kerala.
Participated in the Annual Conference of the
American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS-
2012) during held July 31 to August 03, 2012 in
Miami, Florida, USA. About 2000 participants from
different states of the USA, and other countries
attended.
On invitation by the Organizing Committee of the
Golden Jubilee Celebrations, University of
Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore, Dr. Prem
Nath attended the inaugural function on June 06,
2013 at the GKVK Campus, Bangalore.
On April 08, 2013, Dr. Prem Nath made a
courtesy call on Dr. Peter E. Kenmore,
Resident Representative of the Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations in New Delhi.
They had a detailed discussion on relevant issues on
food and agriculture particularly in the area of
urban and peri-urban agriculture.
On invitation by the management team of the National
Workshop on Urban and Peri-Urban Horticulture (UPH)
with the theme-Greening the cities, utilising the
waste, meeting the needs and servicing the
environment organized by Confederation of
Horticulture Association of India (CHAI), New Delhi
Dr. Prem Nath attended the Workshop on March
02, 2013 in Bangalore.
FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific,
Bangkok, Thailand in collaboration with Dr. P.N.
Agricultural Science Foundation, Bangalore
organized the Regional Workshop on Strengthening
Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture towards resilient
food systems in Asia held during January 28-30, 2013
in Bangkok, Thailand.
On invitation by the Organizing Community of the
SEAVEG 2014: Families, Farms, Food Regional
Symposium on Sustaining Small-Scale Vegetable
Production and Marketing Systems for Food and
Nutrition Security Dr. Prem Nath attended it
during 25-28 February 2014 at Centara Grand at
Central Plaza Ladprao, Bangkok, Thailand.
On invitation by the management of the 8th National
Noni Symposium Noni- Search 2013 with the theme Noni
for Sustainable Wellness, Dr. Prem Nath
attended it during October 29-30, 2013 at the
University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore.
Dr. Prem Nath was invited as the Guest of
Honor during the Seminar on India’s Development
Current Scenario organized by the Integrated Council
for Socio-Economic progress (ICSEP) Thrissur, Kerala
at the Citrine Hotel, Bangalore on 15th December,
2013.
The Regional Symposium on “Sustaining Small Scale
Vegetables and Marketing Systems for Food and
Nutrition” was held from 25th -27th February 2014 at
Hotel Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao,
Bangkok, Thailand. Dr. P.G. Chengappa and
Dr. O.P. Dutta represented the PNASF and VEGINET.
During the month of June, 2005, the Chairman PNASF
held meetings with the H.E. Shri T.N. Chaturvedi,
the Governor, Karnataka State, Shri A. Srinivas,
the Minister for Horticulture and Shri. S.R. Morey,
the Minister for Municipal Administration and KUIDFC
with regard to the International workshop on Urban
and peri-urban Agriculture for Asian Countries (FNOP/
INT/001/NOR).
During the month of June, 2005, the Chairman, PNASF
had discussion with Shri. Chiranjeev Singh, the
former Additional Chief Secretary and Development
Commissioner and Shri Abhay Prakash, the
present Additional Chief Secretary and Development
Commissioner and Ms. Shamim Banu, Principal
Secretary to the Urban Development Department,
Government of Karnataka with regard to the
International workshop on Urban and Peri-urban
Agriculture for Asian Countries.
During the month of October and November 2005, the
Chairman PNASF had presented a copy of the workshop
proceedings of the Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture
(UPA) for Asian Countries to the H.E. Shri T.N.
Chaturvedi, the Governor, Karnataka State, Shri A.
Srinivas, the Minister for Horticulture, Mr. Abhay
Prakash Additional Chief Secretary and Development
Commissioner and discussed the ‘Conclusions and
Recommendations’ of the workshop for consideration
by the Karnataka State Government.
Shri M.V. Rajasekharan, Honorable Union Minister
of State for Planning, Government of India
visited the Dr. Prem Nath Agricultural Science
Foundation (PNASF), Bangalore on the forenoon of
March 11, 2006. Dr. Prem Nath briefed the Honorable
Minister about the aims, objectives and various
project activities under taken by the foundation and
explained about the commitment of PNASF in serving
the cause of Food and Nutrition Security. Impressed
by the achievement of PNASF in a short period, the
Minister appreciated the mission and activities of
PNASF and assured all possible support to the
foundation in addressing the universal cause of Food
and Nutrition Security particularly with reference
to the sustainable development of farming community
in India. He emphasized the need of utilizing the
knowledge and experiences of highly qualified senior
citizens and expressed his happiness to be
associated with PNASF. He congratulated Dr. Prem
Nath for his untiring efforts in this direction
and wished all the success in his future endeavors.
On the invitation of Dr, C.H. Bonte-Friedheim ,
former Asstt. Director General of FAO, former
Director General of ISNAR and Member, Board
of Syngenta Foundation worldwide, Dr. Prem
Nath participated in the working dinner held on
26th January, 2007 in Orchid Eco Hotel,
Mumbai hosted by the Syngenta Foundation.
The mission of the team consisting of seven internal
and external members namely Dr. Andrew Bennett,
Executive Director of Syngenta Foundation for
Sustainable Agriculture, Dr. Christian Bonte-
Friedheim, Board Member, Syngenta, Foundation for
Sustainable Agriculture, Mr. Khosla S.K., Vice
President, PR & D, Syngenta India Limited, Mumbai,
Dr. Partha Dasgupta, Advisor, Syngenta India
Limited, Kolkata, was to visit the agricultural
development project sites in Maharashtra assisted by
the Foundation. In the original travel plan, the
team was to visit Karnataka also which did not
happen. A detailed discussion was held around the
identification of beneficiaries, priority issues to
be addressed, mechanism of project implementation
and identification of host partner organizations/
institutions. A possible collaboration between
Syngneta and PNASF would be useful in achieving the
common goal of uplifting small farmers.
Visited the VC office and agreed with Dr. P.G.
Chengappa and Director of Research Dr. T.K.
Prabhakara Setty on the following issues; Agreed
to approve the fellowship of Late Dharamsheela
Nath Award in the Food and Nutrition
Department and to nominate a candidate this
month; Agreed that the UAS should participate in the
ICV – 2008 in Brazil. One teacher can be deputed but
others may also submit their papers. (PNASF News
provided); Agreed that the UAS could be the venue
for the Book Release Ceremony during the period 20th
October to November 15, 2007. The VC will
participate. The probable Chief Guest is Shri. S.
M. Krishna and the date accepted by him will be
communicated quickly. He suggested that the
Karnataka Agriculture Minister also be invited and I
agreed that we together will make on it when the
date is received from the Chief Guest (to put in
writing to VC / detailed programme for TAC).
The Chairman, PNASF visited Department of
Horticulture, Lalbagh on March 06, 2008, and held
discussion with Dr. K. Ramakrishnappa, Director
of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka who
appraised him of latest developments in horticulture
in the State. An interesting and very useful
discussion on issues of mutual interest in
horticulture was held with him and his colleague
Dr. S.V. Hittalamani.
Dr. Prem Nath, Chairman, PNASF made a
courtesy call on Dr. Mangala Rai, Director
General of the Indian Council of Agricultural
Research in his office in New Delhi on 25th
April, 2008. Both of them deliberated on the issues
of the latest developments in agricultural
education, research and development in India. Dr.
Rai highlighted the steps undertaken at the ICAR, on
streamlining the procedures towards increased
efficiency in administration and reporting, research
priority setting, and research management. Dr. Nath
emphasized the dire need of creating on outstanding
leaders / manager of agricultural research
institutions and of upgrading the agriculture
university curricula to meet the present demand of
the nation and Dr. Rai was pleased to explain the
steps initiated in this regard.
Dr. Prem Nath, Chairman, PNASF and Convener,
VEGINET held discussion with Dr. P. G.
Chengappa, Vice Chancellor University of
Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore on 10th May
2008. Dr. Chengappa apprised the visitor of the
development plans undertaken by the University and
the progress made since he took over as Vice
Chancellor of the University. The development of
infra-structure to accommodate large conference and
massive farmer’s fair would be a step forward in
bringing state, national and international
scientists and farmers together to debate on issues
of the farmers. The Krishi Mela-2007 held was
recognized as the first mega event ever held at the
GKVK campus, where the PNASF participated in
releasing the publication entitled “Vegetable
Crops-Improvement and Production”, among lacs of
farmers on 18th November 2007. Dr. Prem Nath briefed
Dr. P.G. Chengappa regarding the development on the
proposed International Conference on Horticulture
(ICH-2009) for the benefit of agriculture and
horticulture sector initiated by the PNASF and
VEGINET. Dr. P. G. Chengappa as pleased not only to
participate but offered the support of the
university in undertaking this exercise in the
interest of the scientists and the farmers.
Dr. K. G. Ahuja of Chicago, life-long
horticulturist, and the founder TAC member,
visited PNASF from 26th to 30th November, 2008. He
was updated on the activities of the PNASF, which he
appreciated. Dr. Ahuja had detailed discussion with
Dr. K. R. M. Swamy and Dr. Prem Nath
on the draft manuscript of the proposed book
entitled “ Our Foods and Nutrition” authored by him.
He submitted the first draft for its finalization by
the PNASF intended to be published during 2009. This
publication, meant for common people, will enhance
the knowledge on the nutritive value of different
types of foods and nutrition of the people.
VISIT TO THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT,
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA, NEW DELHIDr. Prem Nath,
Chairman, PNASF visited the Ministry of Rural
Development on 10th July, 2008 and held discussions
with the Dr. (Mrs.) Rita Sharma, Secretary,
Department of Rural Development, on the upcoming
International Conference on Horticulture (ICH-2009)
scheduled during November 9-12, 2009 in Bangalore
and on the issues of agriculture and rural
development. Dr. (Mrs.) Sharma explained the rural
development programmes initiated by the Ministry and
showed interest in the ICH-2009, the theme of which
centered around the rural masses. She mentioned that
the participation of CAPART in this conference would
be useful and showed interest in some of the
technical sessions. She also assured support and
cooperation for the conference.
MEETING WITH THE OFFICIALS OF THE GOVERNMENT OF
INDIA AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
The Chairman, PNASF had a number of meetings with
different senior officials during July 2008, viz;
Dr. H.P. Singh, Deputy Director General
(Horticulture), ICAR; Dr. Anupam Varma, INSA Senior
Scientist, IARI; New Delhi; Dr. M.J. Chandre Gowda,
Additional Commissioner (Extension), Ministry of
Agriculture, Government of India; Dr. C. Prasad
former Deputy Director General, ICAR; Dr. Brahm
Singh, former Director, DRDO; Dr. Kirti Singh,
former Chairman, ASRB; Dr. R.B. Singh, former ADG,
FAO; Dr. Vishnu Swarup, Director of Research, Indo
American Hybrid Seed (India) Private Limited; and
others. These officials appreciated the efforts of
the Organizing Committee in organizing the ICH-2009
and expressed their strong support in preparation of
the conference. They contributed significantly to
the success of the conference.
VISIT TO THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, GOVERNMENT OF
INDIA, NEW DELHI
Dr. Prem Nath visited the Ministry of
Agriculture, New Delhi on 10th and 11th July, 2008
and had discussion with the senior officials in
relation to the upcoming International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009). Separate meetings were held
with Mr. R. K. Tiwari, Joint Secretary (Extension);
Mr. S. K. Pattanayak, Joint Secretary (National
Horticulture Mission); Dr. M. L. Chaudhary,
Horticulture Commissioner and Dr. M. J. Chandre
Gowda, Additional Commissioner (Extension). The
discussion centered around sharing of knowledge on
different programmes and activities of respective
departments in the promotion of agriculture and
horticulture sector for the benefit of the
stakeholders. The officials showed interest and
expressed their support by way of their
participation and possible contribution to the
conference.
VISIT TO THE AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF
BULGARIA
During his visit to Bulgaria during the IV Balkan
Symposium on Vegetables and Potatoes, held during
September 9-12, 2008, Dr. Prem Nath took inititive
to visit the research institutes in Plovdiv namely;
Maritsa Vegetable Crops Research Institute, Plovdiv.
Fruit Growing Institute, Plovdiv. And Institute of
Plant Genetic Resources, Sadovo.
Dr. PREM NATH MEETS THE EXECUTIVES OF THE
INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE (ISHS),
BELGIUM
During the IV Balkan Symposium on Vegetables and
Potatoes held during September 9-12, 2008 in Plovdiv,
Bulgaria, Dr. Prem Nath, Chairman, PNASF held
discussion individually with the President of the ISHS, Dr. Norman E. Looney and Chief Editor of the
ISHS, Professor Jules Janick. Dr. Nath and
Dr.
Looney shared their views on the development of
horticulture in the present and the upcoming
scenario in the light of the growing importance and
the contribution of fruits and vegetables toward
nutrition security and health improvement in the
wake of the movement of the population from rural to
urban areas and the pivotal role of peri-urban
horticulture and its predominance in the agriculture
sector.
|
Dr. Janick and Dr. Nath discussed the origin,
distribution, evolution, compatibility of
cucurbitaceous and other vegetable crops across
the globe. |
VISIT OF Dr. PREM NATH TO FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS (FAO), ROME
Dr. Prem Nath, Chairman, PNASF visited the
FAO
headquarters in Rome during September 15-19, 2008
and held discussions with the senior officials on
global issues on food and agriculture in the present
and future scenario and the upcoming International
Conference on Horticulture (ICH-2009) scheduled
during November 9-12, 2009 in Bangalore. The
officials welcomed the visit and appreciated the
useful discussion held.
|
MEETING WITH Dr.
JACQUES DIOUF An official meeting
was held with the Dr. Jacques Diouf, Director
General, on September 16, 2008. Dr. Jacques Diouf welcomed the visitor in his office and Dr.
Nath gave warm greetings to him. The discussion
was highlighted on the global issues viz;
farming becoming un-remunerative (eg. rice) in
the developing world, increased importance of
periurban and urban agriculture in the wake of
massive movement of population from rural to
urban areas, impact of FAO’s Special Programme
on Food Security and growing importance of
Horticulture in the context of nutrition
security and human health.
MEETING WITH Mr. JAMES
BUTLER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR GENERAL
Dr. Nath and Dr. Butler exchanged warm
greetings during their meeting on September 15,
2008. They had a cordial and useful discussion
on some of the global issues of food and
agriculture. Dr. Nath explained about the
upcoming International Conferences on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) with the theme entitled,
“Horticulture for Livelihood Security and
Economic Growth” scheduled during November 9-12,
2009 in Bangalore, India. Dr. Nath made
submission for FAO’s support to the conference.
MEETING WITH Dr. MODIBO
T. TRAORE, ASSISTANT DIRECOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT
OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMERS PROTECTION
Dr. Traore and Dr. Nath had exchange of views
and sharing of knowledge on the major issues
faced by the agricultural sector in the
developing world during their discussion on
September 17, 2008. Among other issues, it was
an opportune time to examine the impact of
agriculture/horticulture on livelihood security
with particular reference to food and nutrition
security and health improvement. He understood
that the horticulture was emerging as the second
line of defense in the food domain which is
being felt both in the developed and developing
countries.
MEETING WITH Dr. HAFEZ
GHANEM, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT
OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
On September 17, 2008 Dr. Nath and Dr. Ghanem
had lively discussion on national and global
issues of mutual interest. The discussion was
highlighted on the relevant issues which had
economic bearing on the over all agriculture
development leading to economic growth. It was
felt that a study be made to understand clearly
the contribution of agriculture/horticulture
growth to the economic growth of a country and
of countries. Further, the contribution of
agriculture/horticulture could be gauged not
only on the livelihood security but the nexus
between livelihood security and economic growth
could also be examined Dr. Ghanem welcomed the
discussion and expressed continued
collaboration. Dr. Ghanem was also pleased with
the initiative of the upcoming ICH-2009 and
expressed his interest in participation.
MEETING WITH Mr. ABDUL
KOBAKIWAL, CHIEF, SPECIAL PROGRAMME FOR FOOD
SECURITY
Dr. Nath and Mr. Kobakiwal had fruitful
discussion on the FAO’s Special Programme for
Food Security on September 17, 2008. Dr. Nath
was pleased to learn about the progress and
achievements made on Special Programme for Food
Security, since its inception in 1994. It was
very satisfying that the programme which started
with 14 countries had grown and expanded to 114
countries. It was encouraging that the FAO
sponsored projects were now nationally sponsored
and owned giving rise to the sustainability of
the programme. Dr. Nath congratulated
Mr.Kobakiwal and the FAO for its achievements.
He expressed that the presentation of these
achievements to the ICH-2009 will be useful to
the participants of the conference.
VISIT THE FAO REGIONAL
OFFICE, ASIA AND PACIFIC, BANGKOK
During July, 2008, Dr. Prem Nath visited the
FAO Regional Office for Asia and Pacific (RAP)
in Bangkok, Thailand. He had discussion with the
Assistant Director General and Regional
Representative, Dr. Changchui He; Mr. Hiroyuki
Konuma, Deputy Regional Representative; Mr. N.
M. Hla, Chief Management Unit; Dr. Biplab K.
Nandi, Senior Nutrition Officer; and officials
of the Policy and Programmes. Dr Nath presented
the upcoming International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) to Dr. He and his
colleagues who appreciated the efforts of the
PNASF and its collaborators for this initiative
and considered the conference theme timely and
useful among the stakeholders. They expressed
their support and possible participation. |
OTHER VISITS:
VISIT OF THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, GOVERNMENT
OF KARNATAKA
On October 22, 2009, Dr. Prem Nath, Chairperson,
Organizing Committee, ICH-2009, visited Shri S. A.
Ravindranath, Honorable Minister of Agriculture,
Government of Karnataka. Dr. Nath appraised him of
the activities of the PNASF, VEGINET and the
upcoming ICH-2009. Honorable Minister was pleased
with the activities of these organizations and
appreciated the efforts of PNASF, VEGINET and UAS,
Bangalore in organizing International Conference in
Karnataka. He gladly accepted the invitation to be
the Guest of Honor during the inaugural session of
the conference on November 9, 2009.
VISIT TO THE MINISTER OF HORTICULTURE, GOVERNMENT OF
KARNATAKA
Dr. Prem Nath, Chairperson, Organizing Committee,
ICH-2009 visited the Honorable Minister of
Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, Shri Umesh V.
Katti, on October 22, 2009 and appraised him of the
activities of the PNASF and VEGINET which he
appreciated. The Minister was pleased with the
efforts of the PNASF, VEGINET and UAS, Bangalore in
organizing the upcoming International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) in Bangalore for the benefit
of the horticulture sector. On behalf of the
organizing committee he was invited to participate
as the Guest of Honor during the inaugural session
of the conference.
VISIT TO THE GOVERNOR OF KARNATAKA
The Chairman, PNASF made a courtesy call upon the
Governor of Karnataka, His Excellency, Shri H.R.
Bhardwaj on October 15, 2009 at Raj Bhawan,
Bangalore. The Governor was pleased to learn about
the activities of PNASF and showed his interest in
visiting the field to witness the project activities
particularly on Promotion of Rural Women Self Help
Group through Dairy Development. Dr. Prem Nath,
Chairperson, Organizing Committee, ICH-2009 extended
cordial invitation to the Governor to be the Chief
Guest and inaugurate ICH-2009 on November 9, 2009 to
which he gladly accepted.
VISIT TO THE PRIVATE AND NON GOVERNMENT SECTORS
On April 28, 2009 the ICH team consisting of Dr. Prem Nath, Dr. K.R.M.Swamy, Dr. B.S. Prabhakar
visited M/s Namadhari Seeds Pvt. Ltd, Bangalore and
held discussion with the Managing Director Shri
Thakur Uday Singh and his colleagues, at their
establishment at Bidadi. Shri Singh showed great
interest in the International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH- 2009) and expressed his support,
contribution and participation. The team visited
field activities and appreciated the good work being
done by M/s Namadhari Seeds Pvt. Ltd. In developing
new vegetable varieties, producing and marketing
vegetable seeds and fresh vegetables to Indian
market and abroad.
- On April 29. 2009, the team consisting of
Dr. K.R.M.Swamy, Dr. B.S.Prabhakar and
Dr. Prem Nath visited Indo American Hybrid Seeds
Pvt. (India) Ltd., Bangalore and met Dr. Manmohan Attavar and his colleagues;
Dr. K.P.Vasanth Shetty, Dr. Santosh Attavar. Ms.
Rashmi Attavar and others. Dr. Attavar
appreciated the efforts of the Organizing
Committee in initiating and organizing the
International Conference on Horticulture (ICH-
2009). He expressed his strong support to the
conference and extended his participation in
terms of technical paper, exhibition and
financial contributions. The team complemented
the efforts of Indo American Hybrid Seeds Pvt.
(India) Ltd., Bangalore, equipped with modern
labs in developing new vegetable and other
varieties, producing seed for marketing in
India and abroad.
- On April 29, 2009, the team consisting of
Dr. Prem Nath, Dr. K.R.M.Swamy and
Dr. B.S.Prabhakar visited Institute of Social and
Economic Change (ISEC), Nagarbhavi, Bangalore
and held meeting with Director, Prof. R.S.Deshpande
and his colleagues and invited
them to participate in the upcoming
International Conference on Horticulture
(ICH-2009). Prof. Deshpande was requested to
chair two sessions-; 2.3 National Agricultural
Policy and Programmes and 2.4 Economic Growth.
Prof. Deshpande appreciated the efforts of the
Organizing Committee in organizing the
ICH-2009 and looked forward to the active
participation of the ISEC in presenting lead
papers and deliberations of the conference.
|
VISIT TO THE SECRETARY AGRICULTURE, GOVERNMENT OF
INDIA
On February 12, 2009, Dr. Prem Nath accompanied
by Dr. Anupam Varma had a cordial meeting with
Mr.
T. Nandakumar, Secretary, Department of Agriculture,
Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, New
Delhi. Dr. Prem Nath explained the theme, aims and
objectives of the International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) and Mr. Nandakumar showed
keen interest and extended his expression of support
to the success of the conference in the interest of
upcoming upsurge in horticulture sub-sector.
VISIT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION, GOVERNMENT OF
INDIA
On February 12, 2009. Dr. Prem Nath visited
Prof.
V. L. Chopra, Member Planning Commission in his
office and briefed him about the theme and
objectives of the International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) and appraised him about its
planning and preparation. Prof. Chopra was pleased
and agreed to participate and extend support to the
conference. He emphasized that the conference should
analyze the issues involved and examine the upcoming
scenario coupled with future thrusts and suggest
future strategy and planning. On behalf of the
Organizing Committee (ICH-2009), Dr. Prem Nath
invited him to be the Guest of Honor during the
inauguration of the conference to which he gladly
accepted.
VISIT TO THE FAO REPRESENTATIVE FOR INDIA AND
BHUTAN, NEW DELHI
On February 11, 2009, Dr. Prem Nath visited
Dr.
Gavin Wall, FAO Representative for India and Bhutan,
New Delhi. They shared their knowledge on
international agriculture with particular reference
to Indian Agriculture. Dr. Prem Nath briefed him
about the progress and development with regard to
the upcoming ICH-2009 and extended the invitation to
present a lead paper on Technical Cooperation among
Developing Countries (TCDC) to which he gladly
accepted.
MEETING WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF HORTICULTURAL
SCIENCES (UHS), BAGALKOT, KARNATAKA
Dr. S.B. Dandin, Special Officer, UHS, Bagalkot,
had a meeting with Dr. Prem Nath, Chairman, PNASF,
Dr. K.R.M. Swamy, Mr. P. B. Gaddagimath on January
8, 2009 at the Hotel Chancery Pavilion in Bangalore.
Dr. Dandin briefed the team about the developments
of the newly opened University of Horticultural
Sciences at Bagalkot and experiment stations and
colleges spread over the Karnataka State. Dr. Nath
briefed him about the International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) and the progress made in
this regard. Dr. Dandin showed great interest in the
upcoming ICH-2009 and expressed active participation
and contribution of faculty members to the
conference and assured full cooperation and support
of the university in organizing the conference.
ICAR OFFICIAL VISITS PNASF
On April 3, 2010 Dr. H.P. Singh, Deputy Director
General (Horti.) of Indian Council of Agricultural
Research, New Delhi visited PNASF and held detailed
discussion with Dr. Prem Nath on different
dimensions of Horticulture in India. Dr. Singh
detailed various programmes and projects he had
initiated and implemented in the interest of
horticultural research and development in the
country. He also identified the grey areas and
future plan to overcome those. He talked of thrust
areas and opportunities in horticulture. Dr. Nath
expressed PNASF’s support in augmenting horticulture
research and development in India. It is recorded
that the ICAR had contributed a sum of Rs. 2,00,000/
- (Rupees Two Lakhs Only) to support the
International Conference on Horticulture (ICH-2009)
held during November 9-12, 2010 organized by Dr. P.
N. Agricultural Science Foundation (PNASF),
Bangalore along with the Vegetable Science
International Network (VEGINET), Bangalore and
University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS),
Bangalore. Dr. Singh invited PNASF to participate in
the upcoming National Conference on Horticulture
Biodiversity for Livelihood, Economic Development
and Health Care in Bangalore on May 29, 2010.
FORMER VICE CHANCELLOR OF KAU AND DIRECTOR OF IIHR
VISITS PNASF
Prof. K.V. Peter, former Vice Chancellor of
Kerala Agricultural University and an eminent
vegetable specialist and Dr. A.S. Sidhu, Director of
Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR),
Hessaraghatta Bangalore visited PNASF on January 19,
2010 and held discussion with Dr. Prem Nath on
mutual issues facing horticulture and vegetables in
particular. The importance of research leadership
and identification of growers’ problems and
preparing and implementing projects to solve such
problems of economic importance, should receive
priority attention.
FORTHCOMMING REGIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON VEGETABLES,
THAILAND
On invitation by the executive member of VEGINET
and member of AARNET, Dr. Grisana Linwattana, Dr.
Prem Nath participated in the consultative meeting
of ASEAN-AVRDC-Research Network (AARNET) on proposed
Regional Symposium on Vegetables in Southeast Asia,
held during working lunch on June 29, 2010 at the
Horticulture Research Institute, Bangkok. Dr. Grissana Linwattana and Dr. Robert Holmer
briefed
the meeting about the proposed symposium and invited
VEGINET to participate in it. The Symposium was
being organized by the Department of Agriculture,
Thailand, AVRDC, Taiwan, and ASEAN. Dr. Linwattana
and Dr. Holmer invited VEGINET to be the active
partner in organizing the Symposium.
CHAIRMAN, PNASF VISITS
FAO REGIONAL OFFICE FOR
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC, BANGKOK
On November 29, 2010 Dr, Prem Nath visited the
FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific in
Bangkok and held discussion with the professional
officials on issues of mutual interest. Dr. Nath
held meeting with Mr. Hiroyuki Konuma, Assistant
Director General and Regional Representative and
presented him with a complimentary copy of each of
two books of Horticulture and Livelihood Security
published by PNASF, Bangalore and Scientific
Publishers, Jodhpur; and Foods and Nutrition
published by PNASF and Studium Press, New Delhi. Mr. Konuma had written the message for the
book-Horticulture and Livelihood Security. Mr.
Konuma remarked the publications as valuable
contribution to food and agriculture in the interest
of educators, professionals and public at large. Dr.
Nath informed Mr. Konuma who showed interest in the
upcoming Regional Symposium: “High Value Vegetables
in Southeast Asia-Production, Supply and Demand”, to
be jointly organized by Department of Agriculture,
Government of Thailand, AVRDC, ASEAN, and VEGINET
scheduled on January 24-26, 2012 in Chiang Mai,
Thailand. Dr. Prem Nath will represent VEGINET as
its Chairperson and on behalf of VEGINET as one of
the organizers to the symposium. Dr. Nath suggested
that the FAO Regional experts on vegetable crops,
IPM and rural and urban marketing could actively
participate in the symposium. Mr. Jan Ketelaar, IPM
expert showed interest in the above symposium and
agreed to make his presentation on IPM in
vegetables. The FAO IPM Regional Programme has made
valuable contribution in different vegetables in a
number of Southeast Asian Countries. Mr. Ketelaar
was a senior author to one of the articles published
in the book entitled-Horticulture and Livelihood
Security. Dr. Nath presented him with an author’s
copy, which he appreciated.
PARTICIPATION IN THE NATIONAL VEGETABLE RESEARCH
MEETING, BANGKOK
Participation in the National Vegetable Research
Meeting, Bangkok, Thailand: On invitation by the
Horticulture Research Institute, Ministry of
Agriculture, Government of Thailand, Dr. Prem Nath
participated as the Chief Guest in the Annual
National Meeting of the Vegetable Researchers held
at the institute in Bangkok on June 29, 2010. The
guest learnt about the recent research activities in
the country and was invited to express his views on
priorities and trend of vegetable research in the
present national and global demand. It was
encouraging to note that Thailand has made
tremendous progress and development of quality
production of vegetables and fruits and in meeting
domestic and export market demand. Other guests to
the meeting were Dr. Robert Holmer, Director,
Southeast Asia Region, AVRDC-The World Vegetable
Center, Taiwan and Dr. Narinder Dhillon of AVRDC.
Dr. Grisana Linwattana, Senior Research Scientist,
Horticulture Research Center, Bangkok, presided the
meeting and expressed his thanks to the guests.
About 30 researchers participated.
DIRECTOR, INDIAN INSTITUTE OF HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH
(IIHR) VISITS PNASF
On invitation by the Chairman, PNASF, Dr. A.S.
Sidhu, Director of the Indian Institute of
Horticultural Research (IIHR), Hessaraghatta visited
the PNASF on September 18, 2010 and discussed the
issues of mutual interest in the area of
horticulture. Dr. Prem Nath welcomed Dr. Sidhu
and
invited him to the PNASF Book-Release Ceremony
scheduled on September 25, 2010 at Raj Bhawan. Dr.
Sidhu gladly accepted the invitation. Dr. Nath
expressed that serious problems of growers
particularly of cash vegetable crops should attract
attention of the scientists in solving it and in
rescuing the failing commercial crop as far as
possible. The benefit should be derived out of the
organized periodical dialogues/meetings between
extension and scientific staff. Dr. Sidhu concurred
with it. Both the scientists agreed that the large
scale multiplication and distribution of improved
seeds and plants was the demand of the present time.
Dr. Sidhu explained the IIHR programme initiated.
Dr. Nath explained about the PNASF Gold Medal
instituted at the IIHR during 2002 awarded
periodically to the outstanding scientists of the
IIHR. The last such award was to given to Dr. T. Janaki Ram during the International Conference on
Horticulture (ICH-2009) held November 9, 2009. This
year PNASF Travel Grant was granted to the young
scientist of IIHR, Dr. H.P. Sumangala to present the
paper during IHC-2010 organized by the ISHS in
Lisbon, Portugal on August. |
