In association with the Agriculture Department, Government of Maharashtra, ICAR–National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management (ICAR-NIASM), Baramati, successfully organized a Farmers’ Field Day and Scientist–Farmer Interaction Programme at a farmers’ field in Mudhale village, Baramati, Pune District, on Wednesday, 9 September 2026. The programme focused on crop production and crop protection strategies for maize and pearl millet (bajra) and was conducted in the presence of state agriculture officials.

Scientists from ICAR-NIASM, Dr. Vanita Salunkhe, Senior Scientist (Plant Pathology), and Dr. Hanamant M. Halli, Scientist (Agronomy), delivered technical lectures on improved production technologies for maize and pearl millet, covering general crop management, weed management, and insect and disease management. Dr. Hanamant M. Halli provided detailed information on land preparation, water and nutrient management, and effective weed management practices in maize and pearl millet. He emphasized the importance of timely and efficient management practices for improving crop productivity and resource-use efficiency. Dr. Vanita Salunkhe provided detailed guidance on the major diseases and insect pests affecting maize and pearl millet, with particular emphasis on fall armyworm in maize and ergot disease in pearl millet. She explained the identification, prevention, and integrated management strategies for these important pests and diseases.

The programme was attended by Shri Sachin Hake, Taluka Agriculture Officer; Shri Zande, Circle Agriculture Officer; Shri Pratap Kadam, Deputy Agriculture Officer; Gram Panchayat members; and a large number of farmers, including women farmers. The farmers actively participated in the programme and interacted with the scientists and state agriculture officials, seeking information on crop production and management practices. Later, Shri Sachin Hake briefed the farmers about various schemes and initiatives implemented by the Agriculture Department. Shri Pratap Kadam, Deputy Agriculture Officer, explained the procedure for downloading and using the “Mahavistar AI” app and highlighted its usefulness in accessing agricultural information and advisory services. Smt. Kokane also attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Shri M. Kamble, Assistant Agriculture Officer. The programme concluded with a field visit and interaction with farmers at the crop fields, during which the scientists and agriculture officials observed the standing crops and provided field-level technical guidance.