In Pune district, Baramati, Indapur and Bori area is well known for cultivation of black seedless grapes. In this region, early pruning is done fruit pruning is generally started from 25th July onwards) while the crop is ready for harvested from November last week. The grape growers of this region and Maharashtra Rajya Draksha Bagayatdar Sangh (MRDBS), Pune take active part in discussion, coming to ICAR-NRC Grapes with their live samples to solve the problem and arranging the scientist visit at their plot. With this the proportion of quality grape production in increasing. In addition, the area under grape cultivation is also increasing. As pa part of showcasing the results obtained during the last season, ICAR-NRC Grapes, Pune in collaboration with MRDBS organized Grape Day at the farm of Sh. Garadkar, Vadapuri near Indapur on 06.03.2020.
Dr. R. G. Somkuwar, Director and five scientists of ICAR-NRCG participated in the programme. The Director informed about major achievements of NRCG and new initiatives. He also emphasized on importance of following good agricultural practices for the production of quality grapes. Dr. S. D. Ramteke, Principal Scientist guided grape growers on grapevine disorders and use of plant growth regulators. Dr. D. S. Yadav (Senior Scientist) explained about fruit fly and caterpillar management with major emphasis on traps and biocontrol agents. Dr. Sujoy Saha, Principal Scientist guided on bio-intensive management of diseases and avoiding unnecessary panic sprays. Dr. A. K. Upadhyay, Principal Scientist elaborated on best practices to increase irrigation water use efficiency and management of saline soils. Dr. Anuradha Upadhyay informed about ongoing varietal development programme of the Centre and qualities of Manjari Shyama variety.
Mr. Rajendra Pawar, President, MRDBS stressed on the extension work to be carried out by MRBBS while the research by ICAR-NRC Grapes, Pune. He appreciated the research being done by the scientist of ICAR-NRC Grapes.
Dr. Magar, Former Vice Chancellor, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli gave historical account of establishment of NRCG and appreciated work done by ICAR-NRC Grapes, Pune. Mr. Rajendra Waghmode in his speech requested to the growers to be associated with ICAR-NRC Grapes, Pune. About 200 farmers participated in the Grape Day.
