Suttur, September 1, 2023: The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Suttur, known for its dedication to agricultural innovation and rural development, has received the prestigious ‘Best KVK Award’ from the National Research Center for Banana in Trichy, Tamil Nadu. This recognition was bestowed upon the center on August 21, 2023, as part of the 30th Foundation Day celebrations of the National Research Center for Banana.
Banana Cultivation in Mysuru District Banana plays a vital role in the horticultural landscape of Mysuru district, where heritage varieties such as ‘Yelakka Baalehannu’ and ‘Nanjangudu Rasabale’ hold cultural significance. However, the cultivation of ‘Nanjangudu Rasabale’ has faced challenges due to the Panama or Pusarium Wilt disease. To address this issue and enhance yields, local farmers have successfully adopted varieties like G-9 and cardamom cultivars.
ICAR JSS KVK’s Contribution ICAR JSS KVK has been actively engaged in Mysuru District since 1994-95, focusing on increasing banana production and productivity. The center’s efforts primarily revolve around providing farmers with innovative technologies in integrated nutrient management and pest and disease management. Notable achievements include successful technology reviews and practice demonstrations for controlling stem borer, tuber borer, leaf spot disease, and downy mildew diseases.
High-Density Banana Cropping and Nutrient Management The center has introduced high-density banana cropping systems that optimize natural resources available in farmers’ fields. Additionally, ICAR JSS KVK has procured ‘Banana Samriddhi,’ a low-nutrient mixture technology from the Indian Horticulture Research Institute, Hesaraghatta, Bengaluru, which has been supplied to farmers since 2009. This initiative has benefited approximately 4050 farmers across 2289 hectares, resulting in improved yields.
Promoting Self-Employment and Value Addition ICAR JSS KVK actively promotes self-employment by imparting training in value addition related to banana crop. One of its success stories is Mr. Naveen Kumar, who was honored with the “Best Banana Entrepreneur” award by the National Research Center for Banana in 2022, with the support of KVK.
Recognition and Award In recognition of its significant contributions to banana cultivation and agricultural development, the National Research Center for Banana, Trichy, honored ICAR JSS KVK with the esteemed ‘Best KVK Award.’ The award ceremony took place on August 21, 2023, and was attended by Mrs. Divya H.V., Senior Scientist and Head (In-charge) of JSS KVK, Dr. G.M. Vinay, Scientist (Horticulture), and Shri J.G. Rajanna, Program Assistant (Soil Science), who received the award on behalf of the center.
Distinguished Guests and Key Insights The event featured prominent guest speakers, including V. Palanimuthu, Director of the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management, who discussed value addition in banana cultivation and presented the award. Dr. R. Selvarajan, Director of the National Research Center for Banana, provided insights into the release of new banana varieties.
Dr. V. Venkatasubramanian, Director (Atari Zone-11), participated in the event and highlighted the importance of value addition and banana export. As part of the celebration, the National Research Center for Banana organized a Kisan Mela to educate farmers about precision farming, drone usage, and drip irrigation techniques in banana cultivation.
ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, remains committed to pioneering advancements in agriculture, empowering farmers, and contributing to the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector.
H.V. Divya
Senior Scientist and Head (Incharge)
