A landmark initiative to enhance vegetable production and strengthen nutritional security in Telangana was launched under the MoU between ICAR-IIHR and the Department of Horticulture, Government of Telangana. The one-year programme, from 13 February 2026 to 12 February 2027, envisions distribution of high-quality "Arka" vegetable seeds to 15,000 farmers.

Dr. Tushar Kanti Behera, Director, formally flagged off the seed consignment on 27 February 2026. The consignment comprised 71,101 vegetable seed kits covering 8,888 acres, featuring 50 improved varieties and hybrids of 12 vegetable crops.

Each selected farmer receives sufficient quality seed material to cultivate vegetables on half an acre, facilitating area expansion and boosting production. On 28 February 2026, Smt. S. Yasmeen Basha, IAS, Director of Horticulture, Telangana, formally handed over Arka seed kits to District Horticulture Officers from 11 districts. ICAR-IIHR provides comprehensive technical support, advisory services, crop management guidance, and continuous monitoring.