NAARM workshop urges authentic farm information through agri-media synergy

What Happened

The National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM) hosted a workshop in Hyderabad titled “Agri-Media Synergy: Enhancing Collaborative Communication.” The event focused on improving communication among agricultural research institutions, the media, and farmers. NAARM director R.M. Sundaram spoke about the need for a well-defined communication roadmap to bridge gaps between researchers, farmers and other stakeholders. The workshop featured The Hindu BusinessLine consulting editor K.V. Kurmanath, who encouraged media professionals to leverage ICAR and other government platforms, including online portals, to report accurate and authentic agricultural data, and to disseminate information through digital channels and vernacular languages. Venkat Kumar of NAARM, head of the Extension Systems Management Division, outlined the academy’s activities and its contribution to strengthening human resources within the National Agricultural Research, Education and Extension System. G. Aneeja, NAARM’s chief technology officer, and around 35 representatives from various media organisations participated in the event. The participants emphasized countering online misinformation by ensuring timely, accurate data reach farmers. The workshop was reported to have taken place on the date of publication, with participation from multiple media groups and NAARM leadership involved in the discussion.

Why It Matters

The discussions underscore a push to align agricultural research outputs with accessible, reliable dissemination channels. The emphasis on using official platforms and vernacular languages aims to improve data transparency and ensure farmers receive trustworthy information about agricultural technologies and innovations. The call for closer coordination between government institutions and the media reflects a broader effort to enhance the credibility and reach of agricultural science reporting, which could influence how farmers access and apply new technologies.

Background

NAARM organized the workshop within its broader mandate to strengthen communication within the National Agricultural Research, Education and Extension System. Participants included media professionals and NAARM leadership, signaling an institutional focus on strategic communication, transparency, and innovation in public agricultural information sharing. ICAR’s role as a source of scientific developments was highlighted as needing to be communicated effectively to the public and farmers.

Key Facts

• Venue: Hyderabad
• Event: Workshop on “Agri-Media Synergy: Enhancing Collaborative Communication”
• NAARM director: R.M. Sundaram
• Key speaker: K.V. Kurmanath (The Hindu BusinessLine Consulting Editor)
• NAARM leadership at event: Venkat Kumar (Head of the Extension Systems Management Division) and G. Aneeja (Chief Technology Officer)
• Participants: around 35 representatives from various media organisations
• Main emphasis: use of ICAR and government online platforms, dissemination in vernacular languages, and countering online misinformation

What Happens Next

The report notes a strengthened push for the media to use official data portals and platforms to improve reporting on agricultural research and technologies. Ongoing collaboration between government institutions and media is anticipated to ensure timely, accurate agricultural information reaches farmers across the country.