Mysuru: Stressing on the need for scientists to work for reducing the cost of production for farmers, Ashok Dalwai, Chief Executive  Officer (CEO) of National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA), said that Science and Technology should be applied to make lives egalitarian and sustainable.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the Sixth Asia Pacific Congress of Sericulture and Insect Biotechnology at Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSR&TI) here that saw delegates from eight countries converge in the city recently.

Pointing out that the income of farmers has become a matter of concern across the world, with farmers unsure of their income even in countries like the US, Dalwai observed that Science and Technology should focus on reducing the cost of production while also maintaining high yield and ensuring a satisfactory income.

Noting that nearly 50 percent of the country’s population depended on agriculture, he said that changes and improvisation in farming can lead to increased income and changes in the lifestyle of people dependent on farming.

Prof. S. Ayyappan, Chancellor, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, said that the scientific community should work towards increasing farmers’ incomes. He also sought expertise from other countries in tackling issues faced by Sericulture farmers.

Ayyappan further said that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) in Sericulture should be studied.

K.M. Hanumantharayappa, Chairman, Central Silk Board, spoke about the state of Sericulture in the country and the continued demand for silk, despite the entry of several other fabrics.