Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni, has entered into a partnership with the Nuts Cultivation Company (NCC) in Georgia to promote agroecological practices and expand the implementation of natural farming techniques. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions, aiming to foster knowledge exchange and enhance sustainable farming methods.
Agroecological practices are farming methods that apply ecological principles to agriculture, aiming to create sustainable and resilient food systems. These practices emphasize soil health, biodiversity, natural pest control, water conservation, and the efficient use of locally available resources. By integrating traditional knowledge with scientific innovations, agroecology promotes environmentally friendly and socially responsible farming approaches that reduce reliance on chemical inputs while enhancing productivity and sustainability.
NCC currently oversees more than 1,000 hectares of almond and hazelnut orchards and plays an active role in training smallholder farmers in organic farming through the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Vocational Education Training (VET) initiative. As part of its ongoing efforts, NCC seeks to incorporate Natural Farming principles to strengthen organic practices in Georgia, utilizing locally sourced materials for plant nutrition and pest control.
The MoU outlines a framework for cooperation between UHF and NCC, facilitating academic interactions and technical support. Faculty members, natural farming specialists, and researchers from both institutions will engage in mutual visits to exchange expertise and explore innovative farming techniques.
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UHF Delegation Visit to Georgia
To advance this initiative, a delegation from UHF, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, is currently in Georgia, working on a strategy to implement the partnership. The team has conducted site visits to various NCC-managed orchards and has initiated discussions on transitioning these plantations to natural farming methods. Their focus includes the eastern Georgian regions of Kazbechi and Sighnagi, where pilot projects will be introduced.
During the visit, Prof. Chandel held discussions with key officials, including Nikoloz Meskhi, Head of the Plant Protection Department; Lacha, Director of the Rural Development Agency, Government of Georgia; and Giorgi Vadadze, CEO of Pakka Georgia LLC. The discussions centered on the current farming landscape in Georgia and the feasibility of establishing a 40-acre pilot project demonstrating mechanized natural farming techniques for walnut cultivation.
UHF will provide specialized training to NCC on sustainable agroecological methods, with a focus on implementing natural farming in almond and hazelnut orchards. This collaboration is expected to contribute to the broader development of sustainable agriculture in both India and Georgia, facilitating the exchange of expertise and promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.