On 15th February, the students of B.Sc-II semester, RNB Global University visited two National Research Institutes i.e., the arid campus of the Central Sheep & Wool Research Institute (CSWRI) and Central Institute of Arid Horticulture (CIAH). The main objective of the visit was to acquaint the students with the research activities going on this part of the arid region of Rajasthan using advanced technological instruments with limited available resources. It was further explained how these initiatives have given qualitative and quantitative impetus to research that the city is able to cater to global demands, besides giving an economic thrust to this region. The students became aware of the purpose of these institutes set up by the government and efforts being done in this regard.
Dr. A K Patel, In-charge of the CSWRI campus explained to the students about the purpose of the arid campus of CSWRI through a short movie. The campus is engaged in the genetic improvement of Magra and Marwari sheep breeds found in this region and suitable for carpet wool production. There is a big global market for carpet wool; India roughly exports around 10 thousand crores worth carpet wool every year. The campus provides best genotype of Marwari and Magra sheep to farmers on book value for genetic improvement of sheep. All the students observed how the quality of wool is studied under microscope, later they were taken to the farm and lambs and the parent stocks were shown.
In CIAH, Dr. Shiv Ram Meena explained about the ongoing research activities of the institute through various posters kept in the museum. Most of the research work was centred on hybridization of exotic fruits plants with the local varieties so that they can be grown in the arid conditions. Dr. Meena informed that there are over 300 ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) varieties in the institute. For rapid propagation of plants biotechnological approaches viz. tissue culture techniques is adopted. The other research activity of the institute included:
i) Making of disease resistance plants;
ii) Less water dependent plants;
iii) Gene manipulation to make nutrient rich fruits etc.
The authorities also explained to the students the entrepreneurial opportunity available in these fields and encouraged them to think of taking up such initiatives in future.