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Almora Institute Develops New, Peel-Friendly Pea 'VL Madhuri'

Haldwani farmers' fair showcases VPKAS innovations and honours farmers.

VPKAS
The pea variety developed at Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan in Almora, Uttarakhand. (ETV Bharat)
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By ETV Bharat English Team

Published : October 4, 2025 at 3:37 PM IST

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Updated : October 4, 2025 at 4:58 PM IST

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Almora: The Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, has developed a pea variety that can be eaten without peeling, and it is rich in nutrients. This variety has been named "VL Madhuri," and was unveiled by Union Minister Ajay Tamta at the Haldwani Farmers' Fair. Three farmers who have achieved outstanding work in the agricultural sector were also honoured on this occasion.

Dr. Laxmi Kant, Director of the Vivekananda Hill Agricultural Research Institute, said that this Krishi Vigyan Mela was held before the Rabi season, attracting 800 farmers from across the districts. Various departments and self-help groups have set up stalls where people can learn about various products and purchase them.

"An important pea variety, named 'VL Madhuri', has been released. Its speciality is that it can be eaten with its peel intact. Last year, a total of 14 pea varieties were developed, primarily 'VL Triphoshi'. One variety contains high levels of Vitamin A and Cuprium, while the other contains high levels of Cuprium and Zinc. These two varieties have been released in such a combination for the first time in the country." - Dr. Laxmi Kant, Director, Vivekanand Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora.

The Almora institute was established in 1936. Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta said that the Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan is an important institute in agricultural produce. The institute was established in 1936 and was fully functional in 1974. The institute flourished due to the efforts and hard work of its founder, Bose Sen.

During the Green Revolution, when India was dependent on other countries, the slogans "Jai Jawan, Jai Vigyan" and "Jai Kisan" were given. Under this slogan, the hard work of farmers and Lal Bahadur Shastri played a significant role. Their hard work has made this institute successful today.

Scientists from the Vivekananda Institute have discovered many varieties of agricultural produce. Ajay Tamta said that there are 113 agricultural institutes across the country. Scientists from the Vivekananda Institute have conducted research and presented 204 varieties of agricultural produce to the country and the world. All the research conducted in the Himalayan region has been done by our scientists. This time, scientists have developed a pea variety that provides abundant nutrients.

Farmers who have achieved outstanding agricultural achievements in collaboration with the Vivekananda Mountain Agricultural Research Institute were also honoured. Farmer Madan Mohan Giri shared his experiences and appealed to the youth not to leave their ancestral lands barren.

"I used to farm as a child, but later went to work. After retiring, I returned home and found my ancestral land lying unused. I started growing rice, ragi, and vegetables on it. I have been associated with the Vivekananda Institute for nearly 20 years. I work under their guidance in farming, and I am reaping significant benefits," said farmer Madan Mohan Giri.

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Last Updated : October 4, 2025 at 4:58 PM IST