“Mechanisation will ensure the success and sustenance of the agricultural sector,” said Union Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies K V Thomas while inaugurating Karshikotsavam- 2012, an agricultural festival, organised by the district panchayat in conjunction with various government departments, here on Saturday.
Farm animals like Vechoor cows, rabbits and fowls and various agricultural products, organic pesticides and manure were on display at an exhibition-cum-sale held as part of the event.
Stalls were put up by various government departments and Kudumbashree units. Some stalls served ethnic food.
Tractors, paddy sapling planting machines, tillers, sprayers and harvester machines were also on display. A Pokkali farmers’ meet was also held as part of the fest.
White Giant and Soviet Chinchilla breeds of rabbits from Kurichilakkode Appu’s Rabbit Farm, which operates under the Southern Regional Research Centre, Kodaikanal, were some of the star attractions of the exhibition.
Stalls were set up by Raidco Kerala Limited, District Veterinary Centre, State Seed Farm (Okkal), District Agricultural Farm (Neriamangalam), Government Coconut Farm (Maradu), Parasite Breeding Station, State Agmark Grading Laboratory, Agricultural Engineering Department, Fisheries Department and agencies that promote aquaculture, organic farming and dairy farming.