Vice Chancellor Emphasizes Improved Technologies and Farmer-Scientist Collaboration
Dhaulakuan, June 19, 2026: The Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station (RHRTS), Dhaulakuan, a constituent research station of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, organized Litchi and Mango Day on Friday to create awareness among growers about the latest production technologies, improved varieties and post-harvest management practices of these important subtropical fruits. The programme was attended by farmers, scientists and other stakeholders.
Prof. Harminder Singh Baweja, Vice Chancellor, was the Chief Guest, while Dr Devina Vaidya, Director of Research, and Dr D.P. Sharma, Director Extension Education, were the Guests of Honour. Welcoming the gathering, Dr Priyanka Thakur, Associate Director, RHRTS Dhaulakuan, said that the programme aimed to apprise farmers of improved production technologies and post-harvest practices to enhance productivity and profitability.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Baweja highlighted the importance of mango and litchi cultivation in the subtropical regions of Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring areas, describing them as potential income enhancers for farmers. He emphasized the need for scientific orchard management and value addition to maximize returns. Stressing that restoring the productivity and profitability of citrus orchards should be a priority area of research and extension, he advocated stronger collaborations with farmers and encouraged participatory research trials on farmers’ fields to address local challenges and facilitate the adoption of improved technologies.
Recognizing the importance of market linkages, Prof. Baweja proposed greater collaboration with Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) through training programmes, demonstrations and awareness campaigns to improve farmers’ understanding of market requirements, quality standards, grading, packaging and value addition. He also recommended the establishment of a Gene Bank at Dhaulakuan for the conservation of valuable horticultural germplasm and encouraged the cultivation of emerging high-value fruit crops such as dragon fruit, avocado and strawberry.
Prof. Baweja also laid the foundation stone of a proposed Nature Park at the station, which will serve as a centre for biodiversity conservation, environmental education and scientific learning while providing a recreational space for students, researchers and local communities.
Dr Devina Vaidya highlighted the strategic importance of RHRTS Dhaulakuan in the horticultural development of the state, particularly in citrus research and the promotion of Kinnow cultivation. She emphasized the need for systematic investigations to identify factors responsible for the decline in citrus orchards. Director Extension Education Dr D.P. Sharma stressed the need for diversification into high-value crops for better economic returns. He highlighted the immense opportunities offered by the district’s diverse agro-climatic conditions and pointed to District Sirmaur’s potential in garlic production, value addition, branding and off-season vegetable cultivation.
Social activist Rajender Tiwari drew attention to environmental challenges associated with industrialization and suggested that industries, particularly mining companies, should undertake large-scale plantation programmes as part of their environmental responsibility. He specifically advocated bamboo plantation for land reclamation and ecological restoration.
Progressive farmers Bhura Ram, Jagir Chand, Nirmal, Prince and Akshit were honoured on the occasion. The programme also featured interactions between scientists and farmers, during which experts shared recommendations on improved cultivars, pest and disease management, canopy management and post-harvest handling practices, while farmers discussed issues related to fruit cultivation and shared their experiences.
