“Training-cum-Farm Input Distribution Programmes under SCSP Scheme” organized

To improve the livelihood of the Scheduled Caste population in Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand, the ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir organized a Series of Training-cum-Farm Input Distribution Programmes in March, 2022. The programmes were organized in the SC-dominated areas of Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan Scheme.

The two programmes organized for the beneficiaries of Bishnah Region of the Jammu District at Chak Avtara Panchayat and Naugram Panchyat on 5^th March, 2022, registered participation by more than 200 participants. The beneficiaries were apprised about the nutritional and economic values of the horticultural crops and the ways in which the vegetable cultivation can generate self-employment opportunities for the rural youths.

The Institute demonstrated the varieties of the Low-chill Apples in the warmer areas of J&K in the Bishnah Tehsil. Around 15 Progressive Farmers from the Scheduled Caste Community were distributed the quality planting materials of low and medium Chill Apples during the occasion.

The ICAR-CITH, Regional Station, Mukteshwar, Nainital, Uttarakhand organized a Training-Cum-Farm Input Distribution Programme at Odalohar and Simsyari Villages of District Bageshwar, Uttarakhand on 26^th March, 2022. The participating SC Farmers were made aware about the prospects and scope of growing the horticultural crops. Farm tools like tarpaulins, shovels, sickles, spades and bags, etc., were distributed among 100 participating farmers.

During the programmes organized at the Suchet Garh and Kutub Nizam Villages of R.S. Pura of Jammu District on 28^th March, 2022, the farmers were apprised about the eco-friendly measures of plant protection in agriculture and pre & post-harvest management of crop produce. The programmes registered participation by 200 participants.

The Institute organized an Exposure Visit for 50 Progressive SC Farmers of Bageshwar District to the ICAR-CITH, Regional Station, Mukteshwar on 29^th March 2022. During the visit, the farmers were made aware about the management and maintenance of the horticultural crops.

(Source: ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir)