HEFEI - Chinese Vice-Premier Hui Liangyu has called for innovation in agricultural science and technology while addressing a farming conference in Central China's Anhui province.

In this age of urbanization and industrialization, science and technology are vital means to maintain stable development of agriculture as well as increase in farmers' income, Hui said on Thursday at a national conference on the agricultural science and technology education work, held from May 30 to June 1 in Hefei, Anhui provincial capital.

The key to progress in the field is talented people and education, according to the vice premier.

Hui stressed that increasing demand is proving to be a challenge to the stable development of agriculture, while pointing out China's deficiency in innovations and education.

Education of agricultural science and technology should follow the principle of guaranteeing national food security and supply of farm produce, Hui said.

He called for breakthroughs in core and advanced technology, as well as in seed cultivation, and for better and cheaper technology services to be provided to farmers.

The vice premier also emphasized the importance of fostering agricultural professionals and providing culture and technology training to farmers. He also promised to increase governmental investment in the field.