Experienced and young entomologists have demanded a National Institute of Entomology in the country. The need is felt for carrying out proper research in the field of entomology or insect science. The issue was discussed during the inaugural ceremony of two-day National Entomologists’ Meet at Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums (IINRG) at Namkom on Thursday.
Officer on Special Duty at National Institute of Biotic Stress Management (NIBSM) TP Rajendran said the demand will be presented before the Ministry of Agriculture by scientists of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). “We have been suggesting the establishment of National Institute of Entomology since 2011. Scientists like us should have requested the government about the need around two decades back,” he said.
“We scientists at ICAR are planning to ask the government for formation of first of its kind Institute of Entomology after a detailed discussion at our level. The next step on the government’s part is a lengthy process. Initially, it will start with policy advocacy then funding and later the plan will be implemented,” Rajendran added.
ICAR Deputy Director General (Horticulture Science) NK Krishna Kumar felt the Institute is required for sustaining research based activities on entomology. Moreover, he stressed on the manpower crunch in this field which has made difficult to spread the relevance of pollinators, applied science, molecular science and military science.
Chief Guest of the occasion George John, Vice Chancellor of Birsa Agricultural University (BAU) said national emphasis should be given on the proposal of the National Institute of Entomology. More than 200 researchers across the nation are participating in the meet. The need for the institute at the grassroots level was expressed by the young researchers here.
“We always have to rely on our extension centre to convey information among the farmers. This has created a communication gap between us and the farmers. The National Institute of Entomology will give us a platform to share and clarify research oriented works through a proper channel,” said Archana Anokhe from Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.
Similarly, lopamudra Biswal pursuing PhD in ‘Toxicology’ at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology pointed on the research of pest management which can be studied if such an institute is formed. Highlighting other options to promote entomology IINRG Director R Ramani suggested creating a page on facebook which could play role in enhancing data, updating record, analysis and correlation by the research scholars.