LUCKNOW, May 21 -- A conference on micro irrigation organised by CARD in association with the UP horticulture department highlighted the growing importance of drip irrigation in improving water efficiency, horticulture productivity and agricultural exports in the state. UP horticulture minister Dinesh Pratap Singh attended the event as chief guest on Tuesday, while director of horticulture BP Ram was the guest of honour. Speakers said the state government was making significant efforts to create favourable conditions for expansion of drip irrigation across UP. Experts noted that drip irrigation is particularly suitable for high-value crops, orchards, vineyards and row crops, especially in water-scarce and uneven terrain areas, as it delivers water directly to plant roots while minimising wastage and evaporation. Mukesh Singh, chair of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), UP, who attended as guest of honour, said drip irrigation could reduce water consumption by 30% to 50% compared to conventional irrigation systems. He added that a major exporters' meet would be organised in Noida on June 12. Among others present at the conference were Arindam, CEO of CARD; Shobhit, director CARD; Dr Rajeev Sharma, joint director horticulture; Sarvesh Singh, managing director of HOFED; Navlesh Singh, Sabhapati of HOFED; and representatives from the agriculture and horticulture industry. Director horticulture BP Ram was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award. htc...