Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG) of IIT Kharagpur signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) to facilitate rural technological innovation for the growth of Producers’ groups and Producers’ companies providing technological solutions to improve the efficiency of production along with value addition. Both the institution will entail to identify technological needs of the product-based livelihood and engage in relevant R&D to upgrade the existing technology by modifying, redesigning and standardization of the users at grassroots level.
Prof V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur stated – “The intent of this MoU is to create awareness about the rural problems by offering proper guidance and financial support with solutions at the grassroot level. With this collaboration we intend to assess the existing technology backed up by relevant research and development to expand, upgrade and adapt expertise for the cause of the society.”
Content Writer:- Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
It is a laudable initiative on the part RuTaag /IIT_Kgp to undertake this initiative with ORMAS to develop technological innovation. With regard to” improving efficiency of production” it is not clear whether this pertains to crop yield( an issue already the concern of Indian council of Agricultural Research(ICAR),State Agricultural universities, Kisan Vigyan Kendrs(KVKs) or in later stages of Agro processing/marketing. Other missions are working on micro irrigation,water conservation,precision agriculture,development of climate resilient crops,bio fortified cereals etc
In the long run, RuTag may like to establish links and become part of various knowledge networks in the country.It is important IIT/Kgp conrtibutes to study of Climate Mitigation measures-climate resilient agriculture, sustainable practices,develop models for climate change impact in the region around Kgp to start with.
Thank you for your valuable reply.