Vasundhara seeks Israel expertise in agriculture sector

Tel Aviv, May 11 (UNI) Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje has sought Israel expertise in cultivation under arid and semi-arid conditions.

Ms Raje, who is on a visit to Israel, yesterday called on Israel Agriculture Minister Salem Shimhon and discussed the possibilities of cooperation regarding cultivation under arid conditions.

She sought information about the irrigation techniques for less water intensive crops, prevention of water pollution, solid waste disposal and waste water recycling.

Besides, she also enquired about drainage systems, construction of ponds and industrial uses of water.

Ms Raje said the cooperation between Rajasthan and Israel would prove beneficial for both parties. It would enable research on bio-diversity, conservation of rainwater and development of agricultural institutions in Rajasthan.

Besides, there was a vast possibility of working in the areas of crop improved seeds, fertilisers, micro irrigation, green house, post-harvest management, agro-processing and cattle breed improvement.

Terming Israel as the leading country in the world in the area of desert farming, she said Israel's technical cooperation in agriculture and water management was necessary for Rajasthan.

The Rajasthan Chief Minister, who made a presentation on Agriculture and Animal Husbandry sector at the Israel India Business Forum yesterday, said the shortage of water in the state was the biggest challenge. ''To meet the challenge, it is necessary to change the mindset of the farmers,'' she added.

The state government, she said, was now paying more attention on new, innovative and high-tech farming instead of traditional agriculture.

On Tuesday, Ms Raje held discussions with the experts associated with agriculture, dairy, fisheries and other industries of Israel and took extensive information about the use of modern technology in these sectors.

UNI KAS HS DS1640