Oranges can become mainstay of Vidarbha’s agricultural economy: Union Minister Gadkari

 

Business Reporter :

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, on Saturday said that oranges, Nagpur’s global identity, can become a central pillar of Vidarbha’s agricultural economy. He emphasized that while the agricultural sector in Vidarbha faces numerous challenges, solutions can be found for every problem if Government research institutions guide nurseries properly to produce disease-free saplings.
Gadkari was speaking at a workshop organised under the Central Government’s Clean Plant (Disease-Free Plants) initiative by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI) at its office on Amravati Road.
The event saw presence of CCRI Director Dilip Kumar Ghosh, Chief Scientist A K Das, and Sudhir Dive.

Officials and scholars from 12 states participated in the workshop. Addressing the gathering, Gadkari noted, “There is a need for greater awareness regarding water management and soil testing in Vidarbha. However, above all, disease-free saplings play a crucial role in agricultural development. Work is being carried out in this direction through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, but research must be tailored to Vidarbha’s
specific needs and reach the farmers directly.”
He further urged, “Government institutions should develop high-quality, disease-free saplings and seeds, guide farmers and nurseries, and offer training on raising superior plants. This will help farmers achieve higher yields with lower investments.”
During the event, special appreciation was expressed for Gadkari’s efforts, which led to recent amendments in Maharashtra’s nursery-related legislation.