Mysuru (H.D.Kote), Nov. 20, 2020: In response to the increasing preference for organic farming and products among agriculturists and consumers, the ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra organized a one-day training program on organic farming certification. The training took place on November 19, 2020, at Chaakahali Village in H.D. Kote Taluk, under the Paramparika Krishi Vikas Yojane.
The training program aimed to address the need for proper guidance and certification in order to make organic farming more profitable. Sri Prasanna, Deputy Director of the Karnataka State Seed and Organic Certification Institute, provided valuable information to the participating farmers about the requirements for organic certification. He emphasized the use of plant and animal-based manure in organic farming and outlined the prohibited substances, such as tobacco decoction, solid metals, city compost, chemical weed-killer, pesticides, and fungicides. Proper cleaning of machinery used for chemical farming before its use in organic farming was also highlighted. Sri Prasanna further explained the storage and labeling procedures for organic crops during the transformation period.
Sri Shareef, an officer from the Karnataka State Organic Certification Institute, shared insights into forming organic farmers’ groups. He emphasized the registration process, the composition of the groups, and the role of various members within the group. Regular inspections and training opportunities were also discussed. The fee structure for organic certification based on the size of the land was explained, along with the need for renewal every three years.
During the training, Sri Shamraj, a cultivation scientist from KVK, emphasized the importance of improving soil quality as a prerequisite for successful organic farming. He recommended methods such as composting, green manure, jeevamrutha, beejamrutha, and biofertilizers to enhance soil health and increase yield.
Smt. Divya, a Seed Technology Scientist from KVK, provided valuable knowledge on biopesticides to replace chemical pesticides. She advised farmers on disease and pest management techniques, including the use of nets, decoctions, and integrated pest management strategies. She demonstrated the preparation and applications of various decoctions and solutions using locally available leaves, cow urine, and other natural ingredients.
Approximately 40 farmers from Chaakahalli village in H.D. Kote Taluk actively participated in the training program.