RAIPUR,CG: Chhattisgarh Agriculture Development and Farmers Welfare Minister Ramvichar Netam emphasized the transformative impact of modern technology on agriculture. He noted that while farmers traditionally relied on manual tools, the advent of technology has revolutionized the industry.

He was addressing the inaugural session of the 36th National Conference cum Seminar of Agricultural Engineers on Thursday at the Farmers Auditorium of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University in Raipur. The event, organized under the joint aegis of the Institution of Engineers (India) Chhattisgarh State Centre, Raipur, and Swami Vivekananda Agricultural Engineering and Technology College, brought together agricultural engineers from across the country.

“Today, modern implements and machinery such as tractor-drawn cultivators, rotavators, and combines are commonplace, and advanced technologies like drones and AI are now being integrated into farming practices," Netam said. He credited agricultural engineers and scientists for driving this revolutionary change, which has significantly advanced the field of agriculture.

Netam highlighted the relevance of the seminar's theme, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by climate change to crop production. He pointed to recent developments, such as Prime Minister Modi's launch of 65 new climate-resilient crop varieties, as examples of how technology and research are critical in overcoming these challenges.

Presiding over Vice Chancellor Dr. Girish Chandel echoed the Minister's sentiments, noting that despite the progress made in agricultural mechanization, India's use of agricultural machinery still lags behind developed nations. He praised the efforts of the university's scientists and engineers, who have developed new agricultural machines tailored to the needs of Chhattisgarh's farmers.

Dr. Sunil K. Ambust, Chairman of the Central Ground Water Board, Government of India, addressed the gathering and stressed the need for further work in groundwater conservation and management alongside the development of agricultural machinery.

The event also featured the release of a souvenir commemorating the conference, as well as publications on the new National Education Policy and an upcoming Balram Jayanti celebration. Additionally, engineers who have made significant contributions to agricultural engineering and technology were honored for their achievements.