Pune: In a bid to address the pressing challenges faced by farmers and foster sustainable agricultural practices, the MIT Art, Design and Technology (MIT-ADT) School of Food Technology concluded its annual Gram Adoption Scheme in Wadebolhai village with a poignant emphasis on understanding the plight of farmers.
Ganesh Survase, an agriculture officer from the Haveli division, delivered a stirring conclusion during the program, highlighting the crucial role farmers play as the world’s food providers. He underscored the urgent need for a deeper understanding of farmers’ circumstances, citing instances of indebtedness, crop losses due to unseasonal rains, and the tragic escalation of farmer suicides.
The program, organized in collaboration with village representatives and educators, facilitated meaningful interactions aimed at bridging the gap between academia and rural communities. Survase imparted valuable insights into various facets of agriculture, including sugarcane cultivation, technological advancements, and government schemes designed to support farmers.
Dr. Anjali Bhoite, Principal of the School of Food Technology, shed light on the institution’s research projects tailored to address farmers’ needs. She emphasized the importance of the Gram Adoption Scheme, which has been integrated into the school’s curriculum for the past four years, providing students with hands-on experiences in agricultural practices and community engagement.
Throughout the program, students led a series of impactful activities, ranging from tree planting initiatives to public health awareness campaigns and waste management drives. These initiatives not only aimed at addressing immediate community needs but also instilled a sense of social responsibility among the students.
The conclusion of the Gram Adoption Scheme serves as a reminder of the imperative to prioritize farmers’ well-being and understanding in agricultural development efforts. By fostering collaborative partnerships and empowering future agricultural leaders, initiatives like these are pivotal in building resilient and sustainable rural communities.
The MIT-ADT School of Food Technology’s commitment to fostering empathy and engagement with farmers stands as a beacon of hope for the future of agriculture, advocating for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to farming practices.
