Arunachal Pradesh is a state in northeast India. Farm Science Centre (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, KVK), Geku, located in the picturesque Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, recently conducted a comprehensive one-day training program aimed at promoting the significance of vegetable production for achieving self-sufficiency in the region. The event, held on May 1, 2024, was a pivotal initiative to empower local farmers and enhance agricultural practices in the area.
Notably, Farm Science Centre’s (KVK’s) in India are innovative institutions that provide vocational training to farmers, and field-level extension functionaries. Their mission is to disseminate appropriate technologies to the farming community to enhance farm productivity and achieve sustainable income. These Farm Science Centers ultimately aim to provide solutions to agricultural problems
Led by a team of experts including Dr. Oyinti Megu, Piyush R. Pandey, Dorjee D. Khumu, and Dr. Debia Yamin, the training and input distribution program were part of the ‘Promotional Activities of Vegetables under NEH region’ project, supported by the prestigious Indian Institute of Vegetable Research in Varanasi, India. Dr. Megu, the Senior Scientist and Head of the center, inaugurated the program, underscoring the critical role of vegetable cultivation in fostering self-reliance within the community.
During the session, Piyush Raman Pandey, the Subject Matter Specialist in Agronomy, shed light on the income-generating potential of vegetable farming and the significance of high-quality seedlings. Aniyang Ratan, the Extra Assistant Commissioner of Geku, encouraged farm women in attendance to adopt scientific methods in vegetable cultivation, leveraging the expertise provided by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra scientists.
As a practical demonstration of their commitment to supporting local farmers, participants were provided with seeds of various vegetables, essential farm tools, and materials for constructing green net houses. The distribution was carried out among two Panchayat Level Federations, encompassing 11 Self Help Groups comprising a total of 90 dedicated members.
This training initiative not only equips farmers with the necessary knowledge and resources for successful vegetable production but also serves as a catalyst for agricultural development and economic empowerment in the region. By fostering sustainable farming practices and promoting self-sufficiency, Krishi Vigyan Kendra is paving the way for a thriving agricultural sector in Arunachal Pradesh.
