Dr. Prasad S. Variyar, former Head of the Food and Fermentation Applications Section (FFACS) at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai delivered the eighth Dr. Y.R. Sarma Memorial Lecture on "Radiation Processing for Enhancing Post-Harvest Quality of Spices" at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (ICAR-IISR). The event, held in association with the Dr. Y.R. Sarma Memorial Trust at the IISR headquarters, honored the memory of Dr. Y.R. Sarma, former director of ICAR-IISR and a prominent scientist who significantly contributed to spice research in India and internationally. Dr. R. Dinesh, Director of ICAR-IISR, presided over the program.
The ceremony also saw the presentation of the Best Farmer 2024 Award, instituted by the Dr. Y.R. Sarma Memorial Trust. The award was given to Shri. Laxmana Gowda G.M., a progressive farmer from Mudigere, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, known for his exceptional cultivation of spices and plantation crops. Mr. Gowda's success lies in his approach, which combines traditional genotypes with high-yielding varieties like Panniyur 1, Sreekara, Subhakara, and IISR Thevam black pepper. He has also implemented sustainable practices by fortifying farmyard manure with bioinoculants and using recommended synthetic molecules judiciously to manage pests and diseases. The Trust recognized his efforts in adopting scientific plant protection strategies and promoting a sustainable intercropping system for spices and plantation crops.
Dr. A.I. Bhat, Head, Division of Crop Protection at ICAR-IISR, welcomed the gathering. Dr. M.N. Venugopal, and Dr. S.J. Eapen, addressed the gathering. Ms. Aruna Srinivas proposed the vote of thanks.
