Mangaluru : A two Day National Level Conference on Role of Institutional Financing in the Development of Agriculture organized by Mangalore University started here yesterday at Mangala Hall, Mangalagangothri in its campus.

Shri K Lakshminarayanan, Joint Director, BIRD, Mangaluru, Chief Guest at the function called for measures to increase usage of Internet of Things in agriculture so that farmers can get first hand information regarding soil health, germination, water level, moisture content, etc., which can be monitored to increase production and productivity.

He also mentioned that the Summer Internship Scheme of NABARD opens every year during summer and called upon the students of Mangalore University to avail the opportunity.

He informed that Mangalore University can submit a proposal under NABARD Chair Scheme for undertaking research activities on contemporary topics with relevance to agriculture and rural development.

Prof. M P Subramanian, Former Dean & Chairman, Department of Commerce, in his inaugural address expressed concern about the small land holdings of farmers and the need to have one single financial product to cater to all the needs of the farmers.

Prof P S Yadapadithaya, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Mangalore University mentioned about various measures to be taken for increasing investment credit for agricultural activities. He also called for taking technology from lab to the farmers so as to enhance production and ensure food security.

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