421 Farmers from 21 Villages Reached Under Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan
Almora – As part of the ongoing Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, scientists from the ICAR-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan (ICAR-VPKAS), Almora, have intensified their outreach efforts under the leadership of Institute Director Dr. Laxmikant, ensuring timely and relevant technical support reaches the grassroots level.
On the ninth day of the campaign, three scientific teams visited 21 villages across the Hawalbagh, Tadikhet, and Bhikiyasain blocks, interacting with 421 farmers. The sessions focused on improved cultivation practices for kharif crops such as chili, finger millet (mandua), horse gram (kulthi), ginger, and turmeric.
Farmers were trained in pest management (Kurmula disease control), the use of organic pesticides, and seed selection techniques to boost crop productivity and sustainability.
Farmers Highlight Issues, Offer Suggestions
In Pali village, farmers raised concerns about crop damage caused by wild animals, specifically white grubs, monkeys, and wild boars, and demanded effective fencing solutions.
Dr. Mahendra Bhinda emphasized the advantages of line sowing over broadcast sowing, noting that line sowing simplifies crop management and can significantly enhance yields.
At Jogyari village, woman farmer Smt. Leela Devi voiced concerns about marketing challenges and insect infestations in chili crops. In response, Dr. Krishna Kant Mishra recommended techniques to combat whiteflies and cutworms, particularly in polyhouse conditions.
Farmers Provide Technical Feedback
Progressive farmers proposed that local seed storage centers should also be equipped with small-scale farm machinery and tools, making modern equipment more accessible to marginal farmers.
Farmers Feel Inspired by Scientific Input
Farmers across the villages expressed that timely access to high-quality seeds, farm-specific technologies, and professional guidance could empower them to
