Dharwad: The University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) Dharwad, is organizing a four day agriculture fest ‘Krishi Mela – 2016’ on the theme ‘Pulses for Nutritional Security’ from September 24 – 27.

Speaking to media persons here on Thursday UAS Vice Chancellor Dr. D P Biradar said more than ten lakh farmers are expected to visit the Mela. The UAS while celebrating International Year of Pulses this year has released new varieties of Green gram, Cowpea, Black gram, Bengal gram.

“This Krishi Mela will focus more thrust on popularization of new farm machinery. The agricultural fest will see the inauguration of Pulse seed hub and initiations of a special programme ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kissan’ involving Ex-Servicemen interested in farm activities”, he said.

Fisheries Fest (Matsya mela), Fruit, Flower and Cattle fest, free legal aid and Cancer check-ups for farmers are other highlights of the mela. The University is ready with 4511 quintal of seeds and several horticulture saplings for sale during the Krishi Mela.

Inauguration

“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will inaugurate the Krishi Mela on September 24 at 4.15 PM. Agriculture minister Krishna Byregowda, district in-charge minister Vinay Kulkarni among other dignatories will be present”, he added.