A one-day on-campus training program was organized under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) on the occasion of PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Programme at Training Hall, Division of Social Science and Training, ICAR-IIHR for 35 ST farmers of Pavagada Taluk of Tumkur district. The training was coordinated by Dr. V. Sankar, Dr. Sumangala HP, Dr. Chethan Kumar G, Dr. TH Singh, Dr. R Senthil Kumar and Dr. Radha TK.

The primary focus of the training was to enhance the knowledge and skills of tribal farmers on improved ICAR-IIHR fruit/vegetables/flower varieties and technologies. Dr. TH Singh explained to the farmers about IIHR vegetable varieties and hybrids, and Dr. V. Sankar discussed on vegetables production technology aspects. Dr. R Senthil Kumar and Dr. Sumangala HP explained modern fruit and flower cultivation techniques, respectively. Dr. Chethan Kumar G interacted with farmers on soil sample collection, testing, soil test report, natural farming and micronutrient technologies of IIHR while Dr. Radha TK delivered interactive session to the farmers in adopting sustainable practices by using AMC, recycling of farm residues using Arka decomposer and soil health management. Farmers-scientists interactive session also highlighted use of bio-pesticides, trap crops and neem-based formulations for controlling major pests affecting horticultural crops.

The training concluded with distribution of improved ICAR-IIHR technologies like AMC, Arka Neem Soap, Arka Vegetable Special, vegetable seeds (okra, field beans, chilli, etc.) and fruit seedlings. The fruitful training was helpful in imparting knowledge on benefits of adaptation of recent IIHR technologies in enhancing livelihood and income of tribal farmers and towards sustainable horticultural development.