RAJSHAHI, Jan 28, 2022 (BSS)- Scientists and researchers at a training programme laid emphasis on using modern farming techniques and practicing postharvest management for maximizing the immense potentiality of mango production in the region.

  Utmost emphasis should be given on bringing the growers under need-based training and knowledge sharing on using modern techniques and post-harvest management so that they could be benefited more.

  The scientists and experts came up with the observation while addressing a daylong farmers training titled "Modern Techniques and Postharvest Management in Mango Production" in the city today.

  Fruit Research Station (FRS) of Bangladesh Agriculture Research Institute (BARI) organised the training at its conference room discussing and devising ways and means on how to disseminate and reach modern mango farming techniques among the grassroots farmers.

  Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture Sayedul Islam addressed the training as the chief guest while BARI Director General Debashish Sarker was in the chair.

  Director General of Bangladesh Sugar Crop Research Institute Dr Amzad Hossain, Director of Oil Seed Research Centre Dr Abdul Latif and Director of Pulse Research Centre Dr Mohiuddin also spoke, disseminating their expertise on the issue.

  FRS Principal Scientific Officer Dr Alim Uddin welcomed the participants.

  Secretary Sayedul Islam said large-scale promotion of biorational pest management in mango farming has become crucial for boosting the mango production side by side with reducing usages of toxic chemical pesticides and different insects and pests in the delicious fruit cultivation of the region.

   He mentioned that the field-level fruit researchers and scientists should discharge their duties with highest sincerity and honesty for disseminating the information about modern methods and technologies to the farmers.

  Besides, he mentioned that the government has attached highest priority to the agriculture sector and the field level officials and researchers should take the responsibilities of reaching the government's services to the farmers' doorsteps.

  Debashish Sarker urged the attending farmers to follow the guidelines of the field-level agricultural officials and scientists during mango farming.

  He said using chemical pesticides on farm lands is always harmful to soil and public health, crops and environment, adding: "So, it is urgent for promoting biorational pest management widely."

  Agriculturist Sarker said BARI has developed a number of bio-rational-based integrated pest management technologies and has been reaching those to farmers level through various training and motivational programmes.

  There is no alternative to bring all the mango farmers under requisite awareness for promotion of modern technologies to make the mango harvesting and marketing process safe and hygienic.

  He said modern technologies need to be promoted commercially in mango orchards in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj districts during the coming pre-harvest season to protect mango from pest attack besides facilitating the farmers to get quality and better yield.

  Mango is the leading seasonal cash crop of the country's northwest region and dominates the economy in the two districts, famous for the delicious fruit.

  Around 50 mango farmers from different areas in the district joined the training.