NEWS – The University of Agricultural Sciences-Bengaluru (UAS-B) is hosting this year’s Krishi Mela under the theme “Climate-Smart Digital Farming.” The event will be held on the GKVK campus from November 14 to 17, 2023. It will focus on innovative, climate-resilient technologies and feature the latest advancements in digital and mechanized farming.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS AND TECHNOLOGIES ON DISPLAY

• Drones and AI-based Machinery
  • Drones for Coconut-Plucking: Specialized drones designed for coconut plucking and other farm operations will be demonstrated, showcasing advanced automation.
  • AI-Based Machinery: Semi-automated tractors fitted with AI-driven boom sprayers will be used for pesticide spraying demonstrations. This machinery helps reduce labor demands and improve precision in farming.
• Robotic and Digital Technologies
  • Experimental Plot for Digital Machineries: A dedicated plot will demonstrate the workings of various digital farm machineries, developed to enhance farm efficiency.
  • Climate-Smart Protocols: University scientists have established specific application protocols for these technologies, aimed at reducing the impact of climate variability on agriculture.
• Centre for Innovation and Development in Smart Agriculture (CIDSA)
  • Support for Digital Farming Applications: CIDSA provides a platform for training and innovation in digital agriculture, open to students and farmers. The center focuses on digital technology integration and agricultural resilience against climate challenges.
• Live Crop Demonstrations
  • 20-Acre Live Crop Display: Farmers can observe live crop demonstrations, integrated farming systems, and the latest developments in renewable energy usage in farming practices.
• Farm Machinery and Renewable Energy
  • 700+ Stalls for Machinery and Equipment: A vast exhibition featuring cutting-edge farm machinery, including equipment for renewable energy application in agriculture.
• Animal Husbandry
  • Cattle Exhibitions: An array of cattle breeds, including indigenous varieties, will be on display to promote sustainable animal husbandry practices.
• Fisheries, Poultry, and High Nutrient Crops
  • Aquaculture and Poultry Demonstrations: Interactive exhibits on ornamental fish, poultry, and biofuel usage.
  • Potential Crops for High Nutrition: “Potential” crops that are nutrient-rich but not yet popular will be displayed, encouraging farmers to explore diverse crop options.
• Urban Farming Solutions
  • Hydroponics for Urban Spaces: Urban farming is addressed with hydroponics (soil-less farming) demonstrations suited for terrace cultivation.
  • Kitchen Garden Varieties: Displays of high-value vegetable crops and exotic leafy greens for kitchen gardening in urban areas.

Awards and Honors for Progressive Farmers

• State-level awards will honor six progressive farmers, while district-level awards will recognize 20 farmers for their innovations.
• Sixty young women farmers and sixty young men farmers will be awarded for their innovative approaches in agriculture at the taluk level.

Launch of New Crop Varieties

During the Krishi Mela, UAS-B will unveil several new crop varieties designed for higher resilience and yield:

• Maize Hybrid Variety
• Cow Pea Variety
• Sunflower Hybrid Variety
• Bajra Napier Hybrid Variety