Pearl Millet Technology Demonstration and Farmers’ Meet 2025 Organised

21 September 2025, Barmer

The Pearl Millet Technology Demonstration and Farmers’ Meet 2025 was organized today at the ICAR-Indian Institutes of Millets Research, Regional Research Station on Pearl Millet, Gudamalani, Barmer under the SCSP scheme of ICAR.

The programme was graced by Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, as the Chief Guest and was presided over by Dr. M. L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR). Also present on the occasion were Shri Kailash Choudhary, Former Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare; Dr. D. K. Yadava, Deputy Director General (Crop Science), ICAR; and Dr. Tara Satyavathi, Director, ICAR–Indian Institute of Millet Research, Hyderabad.

In their addresses, Shri Bhagirath Choudhary assured full support from the Ministry for early infrastructure completion and farmer-centric development.

Dr Jat emphasized developing Gudamalani as a hub of research for region-specific crops like cumin, mustard, castor, and pomegranate, while ensuring enrichment of scientific manpowered.

Dr Yadava highlighted the centre’s importance for pearl millet improvement.

Dr Satyavathi assured high-quality research for climate-resilient genotypes.

The dignitaries visited ongoing administrative and laboratory building works, urging CPWD to expedite completion within this year. They also laid the foundation stone of the Pearl Millet Technology Demonstration Park under the TSP scheme, which will house a modern training hall and demonstration facilities.

The event aimed at showcasing improved pearl millet technologies through exhibitions and field demonstrations. A total of 30 exhibition stalls were set up by ICAR institutes in Rajasthan, private seed companies, and FPOs. Farmers enthusiastically interacted with scientists and tasted bajra-based value-added products such as biscuits, cookies, and rabdi.

On this occasion, 600 SC farmers received tarpaulins (6x6 m) for grain protection and field use. The event witnessed the participation of over 1000 farmers and stakeholders.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Institutes of Millets Research, Hyderabad)