The Cauvery Calling Movement is organizing a mega seminar on "Food Forest in Cultivation and Tri-Fruit Festival” on June 23rd at Pushkaram Velanai Agricultural College of Science in Pudukkottai district, Thiruvarangulam. Various institutions, including the four national research institutes: the National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), and Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI) will be participating in the seminar.
Over 300 varieties of mangoes, 100 varieties of bananas, and numerous banana saplings will be showcased and available for sale during the event. Products derived from bananas and mangoes will also be featured and sold, enriching the event with diverse offerings. This initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices and highlight the nutritional benefits of indigenous fruits.
The event was announced at a press conference held today (June 19) at the Chennai Press Club. Thamizhmaaran, a coordinator of the Cauvery Kukkural Initiative, emphasized, "Due to seasonal changes, banana farmers face challenges. Instead of engaging in legal battles, we can protect farmers by transitioning from monoculture to diversified food forests. This transformation not only conserves the environment but also enhances our health, reduces pollution, improves soil fertility, and preserves water.
The event aims to educate farmers about the benefits of nutrition forests and to promote the Mega Banana Festival."
The event will include discussions led by agricultural experts such as Dr. K. Sivaraman, Director of the National Research Centre for Banana; Dr. R. Selvarajan, Director of the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research in Bengaluru; Dr. G. Karunakaran, Principal Scientist at IIHR; and former Deputy Director of Employment Assistance, A.P. Haridas. Additionally, environmentalists like Angels Raja, an ecology specialist, will contribute to the discussions.
Furthermore, the event will provide a platform for farmers from seven states including Kerala, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh to share their experiences. Notable figures such as Dr. K. Sivaraman, a renowned medical practitioner, Dr. R. Selvarajan, Director of the National Research Centre for Banana, Dr. G. Karunakaran, Principal Scientist at IIHR, A.P. Haridas, former Deputy Director of Employment Assistance, and environmentalist Angels Raja will participate as special guests, delivering speeches and sharing insights.
In addition to showcasing over 300 varieties of mangoes, 100 varieties of bananas, and numerous banana saplings, the event will also feature products made from bananas and mangoes for sale. This event aims to educate farmers about the benefits of nutrition forests and promote the Mega Banana Festival.
Farmers and the general public are encouraged to attend this event. For more information or to register for the festival, please contact 94425 90081 or 94425 90079.