Regional Plant Quarantine Station, Kandla, successfully concludes 3-Day refresher training on Crucial Plant Health Standards
GANDHIDHAM : The Regional Plant Quarantine Station (RPQS), Kandla, successfully organized and concluded a comprehensive three-day Refresher Training Programme on “NSPM-12 and AFAS Methodology 3.0” from July 16th to 18th, 2025. The vital training, aimed at enhancing and updating the knowledge of plant health professionals, was held at the Conference Hall of the Kandla Timber Association in Gandhidham, Gujarat.
A total of 38 participants actively engaged in the programme, which focused on critical aspects of the National Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (NSPM-12) and the newly introduced AFAS Methodology 3.0. These standards are crucial for ensuring the safe import and export of plant products, preventing the spread of pests and diseases, and facilitating international trade.
The opening ceremony on July 16th was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. J. P. Singh, Plant Protection Advisor, Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (DPPQS), Faridabad, who addressed the participants virtually, emphasizing the significance of continuous learning in the dynamic field of plant quarantine.
The training sessions were expertly led by a team of highly experienced key speakers and master trainers, including Dr. C. S. Patni, Deputy Director & Officer-in-charge, RPQS, Kandla, Mr. Uday Menon, Master Trainer, and Mr. Rajeev Kumar Sharma, Master Trainer. Their insightful presentations and interactive sessions ensured that participants gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of NSPM-12 and the practical application of the new AFAS Methodology 3.0.
The primary objective of the training was to equip participants with enhanced and updated knowledge, enabling them to effectively implement the latest guidelines and contribute to strengthening India’s plant biosecurity framework.
The valedictory function on July 18th saw the presence of distinguished guests, Shri Navneet R. Gajjar, President, Kandla Timber Association, Gandhidham, and Shri Deepak Maheshwari, President, Kandla Fumigators Association. Both dignitaries lauded RPQS Kandla’s initiative in organizing such a crucial training program and highlighted its importance for the local timber and fumigation industries.
The successful conclusion of the Refresher Training Programme underscores RPQS Kandla’s commitment to continuous professional development and its dedication to upholding the highest standards of plant health and biosecurity in the region.