Training Programme on “Good Agricultural Practices in Horticultural Crops” for Farmers from VFPCK, Kerala at ICAR IIHR, Bengaluru during 10.06.2026 to 12.06.2026

The training focused on key components of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), including scientific nursery management, soil health management, integrated pest and disease management, improved crop production technologies and sustainable farming approaches in horticultural crops. Technical sessions were conducted on improved varieties and hybrids suitable for Kerala conditions, vegetable cultivation under open and protected environments, advanced production technologies in horticultural crops including banana, pineapple, plantation crops and ginger, along with emerging technologies such as hydroponics, vertical farming and soilless cultivation. Participants were also introduced to farmer innovations, success stories of ICAR-IIHR technologies, mushroom production technologies and farm mechanization for improving operational efficiency.

To provide experiential learning opportunities, the participants visited several research, demonstration and training facilities at ICAR-IIHR. The exposure included vegetable demonstration blocks, fruit crop units, mushroom laboratory, Centre of Excellence on Protected Cultivation, BESST-HORT and the Agricultural Technology Information Centre (ATIC). These visits enabled the farmers to observe scientific crop production systems, protected cultivation technologies, post-harvest innovations and value-addition enterprises being promoted by the institute.

The programme also incorporated field visits Ekalavya Hi-tech Nursery, where participants gained insights into commercial floriculture, protected cultivation structures and quality planting material production.

The programme served as an effective platform for strengthening farmers’ knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices and promoting the adoption of sustainable, market-oriented horticultural technologies. The participants appreciated the blend of classroom learning, practical demonstrations and field exposure, which enhanced their understanding of modern horticultural production systems and enterprise opportunities.

The programme was coordinated by Dr. Ramya H. R., Dr. Reena Rosy Thomas and Dr. Atheequlla G. A., Division of Social Sciences and Training, ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru.