Chamba, January 20:
Two progressive farmers from Chamba district were honoured for their outstanding contribution to the conservation and multiplication of indigenous grains and crop germplasm.
Sharing the details, Dr. Dharmendra Kumar, Scientist In-Charge, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chamba, said that the honour was conferred during a recent workshop held at Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni (Solan) under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPV&FR) Act. The awards were presented by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel.
The honoured farmers were Pawan Kumar, from village Tiwari in Saluni development block, and Anil Kumar, from village Bagoli in Chamba development block, in recognition of their efforts to preserve traditional crop varieties and native seed resources.
Dr. Kumar said that an exhibition showcasing indigenous seeds and local crop diversity was also organised during the workshop. The exhibition highlighted the importance of conserving traditional varieties in the face of climate change and created awareness among farmers about the need to conserve, promote, and register their local varieties.
Scientists Dr. Jaya and Dr. Neha from KVK Chamba participated in the workshop along with farmers. Dr. Kumar added that seeds from the conserved germplasm will soon be registered under the PPV&FR Act to safeguard farmers’ rights and ensure long-term conservation of indigenous crop diversity.
