24 April 2026, Almora
A training-cum-seed distribution programme was successfully organized at Village Ghaneli, Block Hawalbagh, Almora, in collaboration with by ICAR-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthanat, Almora and ICAR–National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi, under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) initiative. The programme aimed to enhance farmers’ capacity in adopting sustainable agricultural practices, with a focus on balanced fertilizer use, soil health management, and eco-friendly approaches to improve productivity and long-term soil fertility.
The event was graced by Dr Lakshmi Kant, Director, ICAR-VPKAS, Almora, and Dr Ramcharan Bhattacharya, Director, ICAR-NIPB, New Delhi.

During the technical sessions, an informative lecture was delivered on balanced fertilizer application based on soil health, highlighting the importance of soil testing, judicious nutrient management, and minimizing excessive use of chemical fertilizers. The principles and benefits of organic farming were also emphasized, encouraging the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices. A dedicated session on efficient water management focused on optimal water use and conservation techniques.
A comprehensive session on disease management in field and vegetable crops was conducted, along with awareness on the SCSP programme of the institute and its benefits for farmers.
In his address, Dr Lakshmi Kant emphasized the utilization of locally available resources, such as nettle leaves for preparing herbal tea, as a means of generating additional income. He encouraged farmers to promote millet cultivation for improved economic returns and nutritional security. He further urged farmers to adopt innovative, location-specific farming practices to enhance livelihoods and increase the visibility of their villages across Uttarakhand.
Dr Ramcharan Bhattacharya encouraged farmers to diversify into cash crops to improve their income and overall economic well-being.

During the programme, seeds and essential agricultural inputs were distributed to participating farmers to support the adoption of improved agricultural practices. The event concluded with an interactive session, wherein farmers actively engaged with scientists, addressed their queries, and gained practical insights into enhancing productivity and sustainability in their farming systems.
A total of 130 farmers from Village Ghaneli participated in the programme, reflecting strong community engagement and interest.
(Source: ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi)








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