More youth in India should take up agriculture: Expert

Encouraging the youth to explore avenues in agricultural entrepreneurship, Dr Ratan Lal, a leading researcher and recipient of the World Food Prize said the agricultural sector should be the only alternative for young people in the country.

Hyderabad: Dr Ratan Lal, a professor at the Ohio Agricultural University in the United States and a leading scientist and recipient of the World Food Prize, said the agricultural sector should be the only alternative for young people in the country. He suggested that more youth in India need to take up agriculture or enterprising entrepreneurs.

He was the chief guest at the inaugural function of the 111th Foundation Course for Agricultural Research Service, an online platform at the National Institute of Agricultural Research and Management, Rajendranagar. The event was attended by Dr S K Chowdhury and Dr R C Agarwal, Deputy Director Generals of the Agricultural Research Council of India, Heads of National Research Institutions affiliated to the Council, and scientists.

Challenges faced by agriculture and allied sectors in India, solutions, doubling of farmers' income, policy decisions, etc. were discussed at length. Scientists were advised to go to villages and understand the issues farmers face and propose solutions to their problems. Similarly, 37 young scientists from 17 states were trained during the event. Dr Cherukumalli Srinivasa Rao, Director of National Academy of Agriculture Research Management, said that in the context of climate change, it would be beneficial for the country to focus on reducing food waste along with issues like soil health and water management.