During his visit to ICAR institute in Pune, he inspected labs and experimental fields, highlighted export-focused innovation, precision viticulture, PPP collaborations, and participated in “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” plantation drive

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the ICAR–National Research Centre for Grapes (ICAR–NRCG), Pune. During the visit, the Minister reviewed the institute’s research and development activities focused on grape production, quality improvement, export promotion, and sustainable viticulture practices.

On the occasion, Shivraj Singh Chouhan planted saplings on the institute campus along with dignitaries under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability and green initiatives in agricultural research institutions.

During his visit, the minister inspected various research experimental facilities such as germplasm block, research fields, nursery and laboratories of the institute, including advanced residue analysis laboratories. Scientists briefed him about ongoing research on disease management, climate-resilient grape varieties, precision viticulture, water-use efficiency, and integrated pest management practices for enhancing grape productivity and quality.

The  Minister appreciated the institute’s contribution toward strengthening India’s grape export sector through scientific innovations, farmer-oriented technologies, and support to residue-free grape production. Interacting with scientists, farmers and stakeholders, Chouhan described researchers as the “backbone of agricultural advancement” and appreciated their dedication towards improving farmers’ livelihoods through science-based solutions.

During the interaction, the Minister discussed various important aspects related to the future of grape cultivation, including climate-resilient approaches to overcome emerging challenges in viticulture, the role of plastic covers in improving grape production, and the development of short-duration grape varieties. He also emphasized the need for updating and resetting advanced, need-based package of practices for grape cultivation in line with changing climatic and market demands.

The Minister highlighted that mechanization in grape farming has become highly essential due to increasing labour shortages. Further, the importance of providing international exposure to NRCG scientists and strengthening Public–Private Partnership (PPP) collaborations with ICAR–NRCG for technology development and dissemination was also discussed.