ICAR sanctions four research projects for HAU

Hisar, Apr 11 (UNI) The Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) has received four major projects from the Indian Council for Agriculture Research (ICAR) for promotion of agriculture, horticulture and livestock in the state.

These projects include Seed Production project of Rs 5.8 crore, Rs four crore Bio-resource Complex, Resource Conservation Technologies project worth Rs 2.82 crore and a Rs 59 lakh Tissue Culture Techniques project for quality seed production.

The research under these projects would be undertaken by the students of the University.

A spokesman of the University said the studies leading to consolidation of yield levels of major crops under irrigated ecology and raising the crop yield ceiling through appropriate breeding strategies, as well as maximization of yield in rainfed and critical areas with low yield levels, would be taken up on priority basis.

He said, during the plan visions of 2006-07, the University also aims to develop hybrids of millet, maize, cotton, rice, sunflower, vegetables and fruits. For maize emphasis would be given on development of single cross hybrids in this new study plan of the University.

The spokesman informed that the diversification in agriculture through the introduction of some non-conventional crops of fruits, flowers, vegetables, medicinal and aromatic plants and other farm crops would also be thrust areas for the students.

Similarly, development of low cost and eco-friendly technology to protect plants from insects and diseases and weed management in different farming and cropping systems would also be made the essential part of study.

Stress would also be laid on developing low cost and efficient agronomic practices for various crops under various agro-climatic conditions.

He said genetic improvement of breeds of different livestock species suitable for Haryana agro-climatic conditions and development of technologies for utilising agro-industrial by-products and wastes in livestock feed, and value added products would also be interesting areas for the students.

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