By OUR STAFF REPORTER
DEHRADUN, 22 Nov: “Technology has to go from lab to land to enhance the process of development,” said State Agriculture Minister Subodh Uniyal at the Graphic Era Deemed to Be University, here, today. He was addressing a two day National Workshop on Sustainable Rural Development through Aromatic and Medicinal plants: Skill Development and Start-Ups. Minister Uniyal said that the State of Uttarakhand was formed with the objective of developing the hill areas, which was only possible if the problem of migration was stopped and farming and small scale industrial development of various aromatic and medicinal plants in the region initiated. This would also provide employment opportunities to the people of Uttarakhand. He also said that progressive migration done with right intention could also pave the path for development. The development of any region was possible if the political mindset for development was firm. Tourism and agriculture were the two most important parameters for enhancing development. The Director of Centre of Aromatic Plants, Selaqui, Dr Nirpendra Chauhan signed an MOU with Graphic Era Deemed to be University for creating awareness amongst the students and giving them opportunities through training and research. He advised the students to take various opportunities in the aromatic industry and try to become entrepreneurs through hard work and dedication. Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Dr HN Nagaraja said that the objective this workshop was to create awareness amongst the students that rural areas could be developed through various start-ups such as plantations of medicinal and aromatic plants. Vice Chancellor of Graphic Era Hill University Prof (Dr) Sanjay Jasola added that Graphic Era had been actively participating in farming of lemon grass, increasing mushroom production and orchid farming by the students in the university premises. Head of the Biotech Department, Prof (Dr) Ashish Thapliyal, faculty members and students were present on the occasion. The event was anchored by Dr Manu Pant.
