Governor Draupadi Murmu has asked farmers to use modern techniques in lac and other kinds of resins and gums cultivation so that they get the best fruits of their labour. While inaugurating a Kisan Mela cum technical and machine exhibition at the Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums, the Governor expressed happiness that the national institute was working for the betterment of farmers in Jharkhand.
I wish that the institute (IINRG) encourage lac based farming system and the Forest department give priority to lac producing tree plantation. It will not only help protect the environment but also make poor people living in forest areas earn their livelihood,” she said.
The Governor said that it is a noble step to encourage farmers for doing better work and make them aware of the new techniques of agriculture. It is a reputed institute of the State, she added.
lac is a multipurpose natural product and India is its largest producer. We produce approximately 20,000 tonnes of lac every year, 65 per cent of which is exported to different countries of the world. Jharkhand is the largest producer of lac in the country as the trees where lac is produced are naturally found here. However, they are not being optimally used in the State,” she added.
The Governor asked farmers to utilise the favorable techniques in lac farming as it might prove to be a very productive option for them. She said that lac farming can stop migration due to drought.
“It’s a matter of delight that the scientists of the institute (IINRG) have developed several new technology for production, processing, product development and value addition. It has set up a small unit for lac processing and displayed several Pilot plants for making valuable goods, which is very important for lac based entrepreneurs,” she said.
She said that apart from lac the institute is doing research on other resins and gums reprocessing and usage. “When the world is moving towards natural products use of natural resins and gums is the best thing one can do. This would help the environment and the farmers in a big way,” said the Governor.
Director of IINRG Dr KK Sharma, Scientists, technical, administrative and expert support staffs were present on the occasion.