A Capacity Building Training Program and Inputs Distribution was organized on 30 October 2025 by the ICAR–IIHR–Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES), Bhubaneswar, Odisha at Kulantira Sasan, Balipatna, Khurda, Odisha under SCSP scheme. The program was conducted in collaboration with Shishuananta Farmer Producer Company Limited and witnessed the participation of more than 150 farmers from nearby villages. The event aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of SC farmers in horticulture and to encourage them to adopt improved cultivation practices for better productivity and income generation.

The program was coordinated by Dr. Sumangala H. P. (Principal Scientist, Division of Flower and Medicinal Crops, ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru), Dr. Shantanu Rakshit, and Dr. Tanushree Sahoo (Scientists, CHES-Bhubaneswar), with assistance from Sri M. K. Pattnaik (Scientist, CHES-Bhubaneswar) and under the guidance of Dr G C Acharya (Head, CHES Bhubaneswar). During the training, experts interacted with the farmers and shared practical knowledge related to various aspects of horticultural farming.

Dr. Sumangala H. P. informed the farmers about the technologies developed by ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru, and highlighted the importance of farmers’ empowerment through the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) scheme. She also encouraged farmers to take up commercial cultivation of marigold as a profitable enterprise. Dr. Shantanu Rakshit spoke about the technologies developed at CHES-Bhubaneswar, focusing on commercial vegetable production and the use of grafting technology to improve yield and resistance against diseases. Dr. Tanushree Sahoo guided farmers on commercial mango cultivation and soil health management, emphasizing sustainable horticultural practices for long-term productivity.

As part of the program, Arka Seed Kits along with seeds of okra, tomato, brinjal, and marigold were distributed to the participating farmers. These quality inputs, developed by ICAR-IIHR, are expected to help farmers adopt improved varieties and enhance their farm income. The event successfully combined technical guidance with practical support, empowering farmers to apply scientific methods in horticultural farming.