ARDF plans to expand research beyond areca

Mangaluru: The Arecanut Research and Development Foundation (ARDF) has decided to amend its trust deed to expand its research activities beyond arecanut to include black pepper, coffee, cocoa and rubber.The decision was taken at a meeting of the ARDF held under the chairmanship of Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari D Veerendra Heggade, recently. During the meeting, ARDF managing trustee and Campco president SR Satishchandra said 34 arecanut samples had been received by the foundation from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and the customs department for examination during the current year. He said the development reflected the recognition ARDF has been receiving at the national level.The meeting also discussed plans to organise an International Arecanut Summit next year in collaboration with Campco. Heggade assured his full cooperation for the proposed summit.The members held detailed discussions on securing govt-level recognition for ARDF. It was decided to explore collaborations with universities and govt departments involved in agricultural research. The foundation also plans to enter into suitable agreements for establishing well-equipped laboratories and a library, besides appointing the staff required to support its research activities.The meeting decided to obtain the necessary details from Mangalore University and initiate further action.Campco MD and ARDF trustee BV Satyanarayana; ARDF executive officer Keshava Bhat; Areca Mahamandala vice-president Suryanarayana; MAMCOS, Shivamogga, vice-president Mahesh HS; TSS director Narasimha Hegde; TUMCOS, Channagiri, managing director Madhu and special invitee Vigneshwara Varmudy were present.Stay updated with the latest Mangaluru news. Download the TOI App.