Nagpur: Construction of the much-anticipated International Farmers Convention Centre at Dabha is around 70% complete, with executing agency Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC) indicating that the project is likely to be finished ahead of schedule. The Rs235.67 crore facility, coming up on land belonging to Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV), is set to become a first-of-its-kind hub for agricultural events in Vidarbha. The project is also expected to boost agri-tourism and attract investments in the region, creating new opportunities for agri-based industries and startups. A dream project of Union minister Nitin Gadkari, the centre is poised to strengthen Nagpur’s position as a key agricultural and knowledge hub in central India. Work on the project began last year with a two-year deadline. Spread across 23 hectares land, the centre is being developed as a large-scale facility. At present, construction activities are underway on 10 hectares, while the remaining land is earmarked for parking and future expansion. The facility will house a large convention hall, multiple conference halls, an exhibition centre, food court, business lounge, operational offices, and storage spaces. Dedicated pick-up and drop zones, along with extensive parking facilities, including VIP parking, are also part of the design, aimed at hosting large-scale national and international events. Sources said the centre is expected to significantly benefit farmers across Vidarbha by providing a dedicated platform for knowledge exchange, agri-exhibitions, and direct interaction with experts, policymakers, and agri-business companies. It will enable farmers to access the latest technologies, market trends, and governmentgovt schemes under one roof, helping improve productivity and income.
