Central Horticultural Experiment Station (ICAR-IIHR), Chettalli organized a training programme on “Scientific Cultivation of Avocado” was organized to Bylakuppe Farmers mainly to enrich knowledge on improved production practices and opportunities in avocado cultivation on 18^th September 2025. The programme was chaired by Shri. Bose Mandanna, Former Vice Chairman, Coffee Board and Progressive Planter, Suntikoppa and Smt. Dechen Wangmo, farmer representative from Bylakuppe was the guest of honour. Dr. B.M. Muralidhara, Senior Scientist & Head I/C, Dr. Rajendiran, S., Senior Scientist and Dr. Nayan Deepak G, Scientist, CHES, Chettalli coordinated the programme.

The inauguration of the programme started with welcome address by Dr. Rajendiran, S., Senior Scientist. Smt. Dechen Wangmo, farmer representative from Bylakuppe, shared her views on the importance of diversification of crops and encouraged fellow farmers to take advantage of such training programmes for improving livelihood security. Shri. Bose Mandanna, highlighted the growing demand for avocado in domestic and international markets and stressed the importance of adopting scientific practices to enhance productivity and quality. Dr. Muralidhara B. M elaborated on the mandate of the institute and emphasized the role of quality planting material, proper orchard management and postharvest handling in making avocado cultivation a sustainable enterprise. The inaugural programme ended with vote of thanks by Dr. Nayan Deepak, G.

A series of lectures was delivered covering key topics such as an introduction to Avocado and its cultivation practices, propagation and canopy management, soil, nutrient and water management and common problems in avocado cultivation along with their management strategies. In addition to the lectures, practical sessions were organized, which includes a nursery visit with hands-on training on various propagation methods, as well as a field visit where participants gained practical experience in training, pruning, fertilizer application and other important orchard operations. A total of 70 farmers participated and got benefited from this programme.