Special Training Programme on “Advanced Horticulture Practices” for Farmers from VFPCK, Kerala (Batch II) at ICAR IIHR, Bengaluru during 03.06.2026 to 05.06.2026.

The training covered a wide range of topics related to modern horticulture. Scientists from ICAR-IIHR and collaborating institutions delivered sessions on soil health management, improved varieties and hybrids suitable for Kerala conditions, vegetable cultivation under open and protected environments, advanced production technologies in horticulture, integrated pest and disease management, scientific nursery management, organic farming practices and innovative approaches such as hydroponics, vertical farming and soilless cultivation. Participants were also sensitized to farmer-led innovations, success stories associated with ICAR-IIHR technologies and the role of farm mechanization in improving production efficiency.

To complement the classroom sessions, the farmers were provided practical exposure to various research and demonstration facilities at ICAR-IIHR. The participants visited vegetable demonstration blocks, fruit crop units, nurseries, the Centre of Excellence on Protected Cultivation, mushroom laboratory and other institutional facilities to gain first-hand experience of improved production technologies and scientific crop management practices. The visit to these facilities enabled farmers to understand the practical application of technologies discussed during the training sessions.

The programme also featured exposure visits to successful horticultural enterprises, including Sri Sai Flori Tech, Doddaballapura and Ekalavya Hi-tech Nursery. These visits provided insights into commercial floriculture, protected cultivation, quality planting material production and entrepreneurship opportunities in horticulture.

The final day of the programme included sessions on post-harvest management and value-added products developed by ICAR-IIHR, followed by visits to BESST-HORT and the Agricultural Technology Information Centre (ATIC). These interactions helped participants understand the importance of value addition, entrepreneurship development and technology dissemination in enhancing farm income and sustainability.

The training programme provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and experiential learning, enabling farmers to acquire practical skills and scientific knowledge for adoption in their farming systems. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Ramya H. R., Dr. B. Balakrishna and Dr. Atheequlla G. A., Division of Social Sciences and Training, ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru.