Five-Day Training-cum-Exposure Visit on Modern Fruit and Vegetable Production Concludes at ICAR–KVK (CISH), Malda

19 December 2025, Malda

A five-day Training-cum-Exposure Visit Programme on ‘Modern Production Technology of Fruits and Vegetables’ was successfully organized by ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Malda, under the aegis of ICAR–Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, with sponsorship from ATMA, Government of Bihar, during 15–19 December 2025. The programme was designed to enhance farmers’ capacities in scientific, sustainable, and income-oriented horticultural production through a comprehensive blend of expert lectures, practical demonstrations, and exposure visits to successful horticultural enterprises.

In his virtual valedictory address, Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR–ATARI, Kolkata, emphasized that scientific horticulture is no longer optional but a necessity for ensuring income security and sustainability of small and marginal farmers. He encouraged participants to adopt integrated and climate-resilient technologies acquired during the training and to act as change agents in their respective villages. Dr. Dey further highlighted the importance of continuous learning and strong linkages with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) for effective translation of research innovations into field-level impact, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Addressing the participants virtually, Dr. T. Damodaran, Director, ICAR–Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow, stressed the need for a market-oriented approach in horticulture. He underlined the critical role of post-harvest management, value addition, and branding in enhancing farmers’ profitability, and highlighted the importance of exposure visits, farmer collectives, and digital platforms in strengthening production–market linkages.

Throughout the programme, participants received integrated training on horticulture-led income enhancement, focusing on crop diversification, improved fruit and vegetable varieties, scientific orchard management, and modern production technologies. Special emphasis was laid on integrated pest, disease, and nutrient management; natural and sustainable farming practices; protected cultivation; value addition and post-harvest management; and integrated farming systems. The learning experience was further enriched through live demonstrations, exposure visits, and sessions on digital tools for real-time agricultural advisories.

A total of 22 progressive farmers from Bhojpur district of Bihar participated in the programme and actively engaged in all sessions. The combined approach of classroom instruction, hands-on demonstrations, and field exposure significantly strengthened participants’ understanding of modern horticultural practices. The initiative is expected to catalyse wider adoption of sustainable technologies, leading to enhanced productivity, improved profitability, and strengthened livelihood security in the region.

(Source: ICAR- Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata & ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow)