Three-day Saralkrut Krishi Mela to be organised in Mandya

The Agricultural Science University of Mandya will organise a three-day 'Saralkrut Krishi Mela-2026' at the VC Farm from November 30 to December 2, according to a report by The Hindu. The fair has been organised keeping in view the drought conditions that have become challenging for farmers in the state, focusing primarily on drought management, natural farming, dryland farming, and alternative cropping systems.

The main objective of this agricultural exhibition is to provide comprehensive information and practical demonstrations to farmers regarding agricultural techniques suited to current climatic conditions. This includes drought mitigation measures, natural farming methods, techniques for farming on dry land, and alternative crops. Approximately 100 exhibition stalls will be set up to showcase agricultural techniques and innovations by various constituent units of the university, other agricultural universities in the state, government departments, research institutes, national research organisations, and cooperative societies.

A technical seminar will also be held by experts during the fair. Discussions will cover the impact of El Nino on the state, emerging agricultural challenges, dryland farming techniques, alternative crop schemes, efficient use of water in the Cauvery command area, and production techniques for Rabi crops. An advisory centre of agricultural scientists will also be established at the fair venue for the immediate resolution of farmers' agriculture-related problems and guidance. Additionally, progressive farmers and women farmers at the district and taluk levels will be honoured with awards.

Three new crop varieties developed by the university during 2025-26 will also be released at this fair. These include the MSN-113 variety of paddy, the MAH-20-45 variety of maize, and the MFC-18-10 variety of cowpea for animal feed. Furthermore, nine new agricultural techniques beneficial for farmers will be unveiled here.

Agriculture Minister and University Pro-Chancellor P.M. Narendra Swamy will inaugurate the fair on November 30. Water Resources Minister and Mandya district in-charge minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy will be present as the chief guest, while Melukote MLA Darshan Puttannaiah will preside. University Vice-Chancellor K.C. Narayanaswamy, members of the management board, and farmers from various districts are also expected to be present on the occasion. The university has appealed to farmers, women farmers, students, and the general public to attend in large numbers to gain information about new crop varieties, drought management, and efficient use of water.

The Agricultural Science University of Mandya has been an institution providing research and education in the field of agriculture.