Suttur, August 18, 2026: ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, in collaboration with Dhan Foundation, Nanjangud, organized a training programme on the establishment and maintenance of nutritional kitchen gardens, along with the distribution of seed kits, under the TSP Scheme. The programme was aimed at promoting nutritional security among women farmers.
The programme was presided over by Dr. B.N. Gnanesh, Ph.D., the Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, who inaugurated the event and addressed the participants. He emphasized that establishing kitchen gardens is highly important for ensuring nutritional security among women and their families. He said that regular consumption of fresh vegetables as part of the daily diet plays a vital role in maintaining good health.
Speaking as the chief guest, Shri Prakash, Director, Dhan Foundation, Nanjangud, highlighted the various training programmes being organized at JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra. He urged farmers and women farmers to make effective use of such capacity-building opportunities.
Another chief guest, Mrs. Damayanti Rao, said that nutritional kitchen gardens enable families to grow and consume fresh, chemical-free vegetables and thereby contribute to better health and food safety.
As part of the technical sessions, Dr. Vinay G. N., Horticulture Scientist, provided detailed information on the layout, establishment and maintenance of nutritional kitchen gardens. He also explained comprehensive nutrient management, land preparation and sowing practices required for successful cultivation.
Dr. Prasad Y. P., Plant Protection Scientist, spoke in detail about the organic management of pests and diseases in kitchen gardens. He created awareness about basic precautions to be followed in garden maintenance and explained the use of Panchagavya, farmyard manure and the proper utilization of kitchen waste for sustainable cultivation.
Mrs. Divya H. V. spoke about terrace gardening in urban areas and explained its importance, establishment and maintenance.
Dr. Deepak explained the nutritional value of vegetables grown in kitchen gardens and highlighted how the inclusion of a variety of vegetables in the daily diet can help prevent lifestyle-related diseases. He stressed the importance of a nutritious and balanced diet and said that vegetables are an essential component of daily food intake.
He further explained that vegetables are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre and that regular consumption can help address micronutrient deficiencies. He also highlighted the health benefits of consuming fresh, chemical-free vegetables and reiterated the importance of maintaining a balanced diet.
Dr. Deepak welcomed the gathering, while Mrs. Divya H. V. conducted the programme. Dr. Rakshit Raj U. M. proposed the vote of thanks.
More than 60 women farmers participated in the programme and benefited from the technical sessions. Nutritional kitchen garden kits, seed kits and saplings were also distributed to the participating women farmers.

