Uttranchal takes lead in agribusiness in North India.

The state of Uttaranchal is actively focusing on agribusiness. To discuss the technologies and prospects of business in Uttranchal, the Government of Uttaranchal, CII, and DASP jointly held AGRICON 2004 in the GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology. "The agriculture sector in Uttaranchal faced many challenges and abundant opportunities," said MS Mahara, minister for agriculture, Uttaranchal, at the inauguration of AGRICON 2004. He expressed hope that that the deliberations at the conference would be able to provide possible solutions to some of the challenges.

Clearly, the State was very eager to attract entrepreneurs to the state. Chief Minister ND Tiwari stressed that adoption of new technologies across the agriculture value chain could make India a major player in the international markets vis-à-vis agricultural products. His message reiterated that Uttaranchal is the "numero uno' investment destination. The Chief Minister's address also conveyed the state's interest in biotechnology. ND Tiwari stated, "In future, technology would be a major driving force in agribusiness. Hence, adaptation of technology across the value chain such as biotechnology in crop and animal products for productivity enhancement or value addition to processing/packaging technology for better shelf life would be a novel tool to cater to future food consumers." The Uttaranchal state has already prepared the State Biotechnology Policy and is to be released officially soon.

Sanjeev Chopra, secretary, industrial development, Uttranchal said, "Biotechnology is a tool that every enterprising economy can adopt. Not just agricultural production system, but also the entire gamut of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and the health industry can also attain heights through this application." Addressing the session Gautam Thapar, chairman CII Northern Region, stressed on the need for agriculture becoming competitive, both for domestic and international markets. Dr PL Gautam, vice chancellor, GB Pant University was also present there and expressed his positive views about the technological aspects for growth into Agribusiness. Delivering the valedictory address, the State Governor, Sudarshan Agarwal asked the state to keep up its tempo and stressed on the need for growth and sustainable development of Agribusiness. He also felt that modern tools and techniques should be nurtured within the state so that industry can grow. The two-day event showcased the potential of the State in the Agribusiness sector.

Faiz Askari, In Pantnagar, Uttranchal