Farmer Awareness Programme at Gingurthy Village, Vikarabad District
A major farmer awareness programme was organized by ICAR–Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (ICAR-CRIDA), Hyderabad and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ranga Reddy at Gingurthy Village, Tandur Mandal, Vikarabad District under the Model Pulse Village (MPV) Project. The programme aimed to improve pulse production, promote scientific farming methods, and increase farmers’ income through climate-resilient agricultural practices.
Objectives of the Programme
The awareness programme focused on:
- Increasing productivity of pulse crops, especially Red Gram.
- Promoting scientific nutrient management practices.
- Encouraging climate-resilient farming technologies.
- Improving soil health and sustainable agriculture.
- Creating awareness about government agricultural schemes and extension services available to farmers.
Key Topics Discussed
Agricultural experts explained:
- Importance of pulse crops in improving soil fertility and farm income.
- Balanced fertilizer application based on soil requirements.
- Use of biofertilizers and organic inputs.
- Climate-smart farming techniques for dryland areas.
- Integrated pest and disease management practices.
- Water conservation and efficient irrigation methods.
- Availability of quality seeds and government support programmes.
Participation of Agricultural Officials
The programme was attended by:
- Shri Kumraiah, Assistant Director of Agriculture, Tandur.
- Village representatives including the Sarpanch.
- Agriculture Extension Officers (AEOs).
- Scientists and Subject Matter Specialists from ICAR-CRIDA and KVK.
Farmer Interaction Session
A special interaction session was conducted where farmers discussed:
- Crop yield challenges.
- Pest and disease issues.
- Fertilizer management.
- Market-related concerns.
- Water scarcity and climate-related risks.
Scientists provided practical solutions and technical guidance based on local farming conditions.
Seed Distribution and Demonstrations
As part of related activities under the Model Pulse Village initiative:
- Certified Red Gram (TDRG-59) seeds were distributed.
- Biofertilizer packs were supplied to eligible farmers.
- Demonstrations on seed treatment and scientific cultivation practices were conducted.
- Farmers received training on improving pulse yields and reducing production costs.
Farmer Participation
The Gingurthy programme witnessed participation from 113 farmers, while associated training and seed-distribution programmes in the area involved several hundred farmers from neighboring villages.
Expected Benefits for Vikarabad Farmers
The programme is expected to:
- Increase pulse crop productivity.
- Improve soil fertility through better nutrient management.
- Reduce cultivation costs through scientific input use.
- Strengthen climate resilience in dryland agriculture.
- Enhance farmers’ income and sustainability.
This initiative is part of ICAR-CRIDA’s broader efforts to make Vikarabad District a model region for sustainable pulse cultivation and climate-resilient agriculture.