Skill Development Training on Organic and Natural Farming Inputs Organised

8 July 2025, Hyderabad

ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad, in collaboration with ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tuniki, Medak district, organized a five-day skill development training programme on preparation of organic and natural farming inputs for sustainable agriculture from 3rd to 8th July 2025 under the SC Sub-Plan scheme.

The Chief Guest, Dr Gopal Lal, Director, ICAR–NAARM, emphasized the role of natural farming in ensuring sustainable income, restoring soil health, preserving biodiversity, and eliminating chemical dependency. He also highlighted the need for product certification, such as FSSAI, to strengthen market access for natural produce.

Institutional initiatives supporting Scheduled Caste farmers were highlighted, with a focus on promoting natural farming to enhance family health, education, and livelihoods. The session also provided an overview of ongoing extension activities and emphasized the critical role of biofertilizers and biopesticides in advancing sustainable agriculture and horticulture.

As part of the training, an exposure visit was organized to DDS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Zaheerabad, where farmers received hands-on demonstrations on:

•    Preparation and use of Jeevamrutha, Beejamrutha, and natural pest repellents
•    Soil health management techniques
•    Indigenous seed conservation and multi-cropping practices

During the valedictory session, participants were provided essential inputs including Panchagavya, Vavilaku decoction, vermicompost, drums for Jeevamrutha preparation, and training certificates, enabling them to initiate organic and natural farming practices on their fields.

This programme successfully built awareness and skills to promote eco-friendly, self-reliant agricultural practices among SC farming communities.

A total of 40 Scheduled Caste farmers from Tuniki, Rayalapur, and Pothireddypally villages participated and benefited from the training.

(Source: ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad)