RPL-Based Horticulture Training for Farmers and Farm Women Organised

30 January 2026, Hooghly

The valedictory programme of a series of four Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)–based training programmes was successfully conducted at Hooghly Krishi Vigyan Kendra (BCKV), under ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Government of West Bengal. The initiative aimed to upgrade farmers’ skills in improved and emerging horticultural techniques, while simultaneously enhancing their awareness about government schemes and subsidies that support horticulture-based livelihood development.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata, emphasized that the RPL-based training approach is vital for acknowledging farmers’ existing knowledge and strengthening it further through scientific and market-linked horticultural practices. He noted that such structured capacity-building programmes encourage farmers to adopt improved technologies, enhance productivity, and ultimately ensure better income opportunities through horticulture.

Prof. Pallab Dutta, Director, Directorate of Extension Education (DEE), BCKV, appreciated Hooghly KVK for effectively integrating skill upgradation with scheme and subsidy awareness, enabling farmers and farm women to make informed decisions for strengthening their livelihoods.

The programme witnessed active participation and support from the Krishi Karmadakhya, Assistant Director of Horticulture (ADH) of the respective blocks, other dignitaries, and the Subject Matter Specialists of Hooghly KVK, ensuring smooth implementation and effective delivery.

Through a structured, need-based approach, the programme enabled participants to integrate their traditional field experience with scientific advancements, thereby promoting sustainable and income-oriented horticultural practices. Overall, the initiative was implemented through four consecutive weekly training programmes, benefitting nearly 200 farmers and farm women from different blocks of Hooghly district, who were awarded certificates.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)