Off Campus Training Programme on improved horticulture technologies and “Scientific Feeding Practices for Sheep, Goats and Dairy Animals” under the Farmer FIRST Project of ICAR IIHR, Bengaluru

The programme was attended by Dr. Krishnappa Balaganur, Senior Scientist, ICAR-NIANP, Dr. Ramya, Scientist, ICAR-IIHR, and other village representatives and community leaders. Dr. Krishnappa delivered a technical session on scientific feeding, nutritional management and improved management practices for sheep, goats and dairy animals. He also demonstrated the feeding chart technology developed by ICAR-NIANP to promote balanced feeding and better livestock management. Dr. Ramya H R delivered information on improved horticultural technologies of IIHR such as improved hybrids of vegetables, fruits and flowers and also provided information on Arka Mango Special, a specialised micronutrient formulation developed by ICAR-IIHR, and explained its role in improving mango tree health, fruit quality and yield.

A Farmer–Scientist interaction session was organised to understand the practical challenges faced by farmers and provide appropriate technical guidance. Discussions revealed that farmers predominantly followed conventional feeding practices and relied heavily on Super Napier as a green fodder source, with limited diversity in fodder resources. The scientists advised farmers on improving feeding practices and diversifying fodder cultivation to enhance livestock productivity.

As part of the programme, improved fodder seeds, including African Tall sorghum and COFS, were distributed to livestock rearers to encourage fodder cultivation and improve green fodder availability. Arka Mango Special was distributed to mango growers, along with fruit crop planting materials, including lemon, mango, jackfruit, guava, sapota, tamarind, jamun, laxmanphal and curry leaf plants. Feeding charts and other farmer support materials were also provided to promote the adoption of scientific practices.

Following the training, a diagnostic field visit was conducted to farmers’ demonstration plots of mulberry, ragi and mango. The scientists observed existing cropping systems, discussed field-level problems with farmers and provided practical, need-based recommendations to improve crop management and productivity.

Overall, the programme strengthened Farmer–Scientist linkages, enhanced farmers’ awareness of scientific livestock feeding and management, promoted fodder diversification, and facilitated the dissemination of improved agricultural technologies and inputs for sustainable farming and livelihood improvement.