Suttur, June 13, 2025: The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, in collaboration with agricultural scientists from various research institutes and officers from the Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Panchayat Raj, along with representatives of NGOs and progressive farmers, successfully concluded the 15-day Vikasit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan in Mysuru district. This national campaign, initiated by the Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Parishat, New Delhi, was held from May 29 to June 12, 2025.
The campaign was inaugurated on May 29, 2025, in the divine presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji at Sri Sutturkshetra. Over the course of the program, field visits and awareness sessions were conducted in 131 villages, with 131 meetings organized to directly engage with a total of 34,669 farmers. These interactions provided vital insights and demonstrations on modern agricultural techniques and sustainable farming practices.
Farmers received detailed information on land preparation, seed selection, and the introduction of disease-resistant crop varieties, along with guidance on seed treatment procedures and the importance of soil testing. Emphasis was placed on nutrient application based on soil health, and farmers were educated on the use of bio-fertilizers like vermicompost, Trichoderma, and Pseudomonas. Practical knowledge was also shared on the preparation of Jeevamrutha, Beejamrutha, and Gokrupamrutha, horticulture techniques, nursery production, dairy farming, plant protection methods, value addition, and agri-based startups.
The valedictory event was held on June 12, 2025, at the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement Training Center in Kenchanahalli village. Addressing the gathering, Dr. B.N. Gnanesh, Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, stated that the farmers had gained a wealth of knowledge through the campaign. He assured the participants that the initiative would continue beyond the 15 days and encouraged them to approach the experts at JSS KVK for continued support.
Dr. Vinay G.M., Horticulture Expert, advised farmers on crucial monsoon precautions, stressing the importance of soil testing and demonstrating proper sampling methods. He guided them on crop selection, nutrient management based on soil results, and the use of organic and green manures such as cow dung, peat, and neem husk. He also introduced raised bed planting techniques and micronutrient spray applications to boost yields.
Dr. Prasad Y.P., Plant Protection Expert, shared integrated disease and pest management practices suitable for monsoon crops like maize, millet, rice, coconut, chillies, and cereals. He highlighted the use of biological pesticides, sticky traps, and attractants as effective eco-friendly solutions.
Speaking on animal health, Dr. Basavaraj Sajjanna from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bengaluru, explained the symptoms and treatment of udder abscesses and sores in livestock. He emphasized the importance of proper barn management and informed farmers about various central government schemes supporting animal husbandry.
Agriculture Officer Jagannath from Saragur briefed farmers on the latest schemes offered by the Department of Agriculture. These included the Krishi Bhagya Yojana, agricultural wells, sprinkler irrigation, farm mechanization programs, the Karnataka Raitha Suraksha, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and the Natural Agriculture Scheme.
Presiding over the valedictory function, Dr. Dennis Chauhan, Director of the Socio-Economic Empowerment Program of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement, praised the outreach efforts of the scientists and the Krishi Vigyan Kendra. He urged farmers to make full use of the scientific expertise available to them and adopt informed, technology-driven farming methods by engaging actively with the experts.
During the campaign activities held in Ketupura village, Sosale hobli, T. Narasipura taluk, Dr. Shamaraja elaborated on integrated management techniques for coconut, horticultural crops, and rice, along with crop-specific pest control strategies. He encouraged farmers to visit the KVK to enhance their knowledge and adopt scientific practices for higher agricultural productivity.
Adding to the discussions, Dr. Shivaswamy from the Veterinary Research Institute, Bengaluru, shared information on improving milk quality, fodder management, mixed farming systems, and balanced feeding strategies. He also introduced various cattle breeds and government welfare schemes for livestock farmers.
Scientist Dr. Sabarinath advised farmers on livestock health and disease prevention, particularly the timely vaccination of calves against foot and mouth disease. He also covered prevention and care for lumpy disease, udder abscess, and hygienic practices before milking.
The campaign saw the participation of Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement officers, farmer leaders, and numerous progressive farmers, who contributed to making the initiative impactful and far-reaching. The Vikasit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan concluded on a high note, leaving farmers empowered with scientific knowledge and renewed motivation to adopt sustainable and profitable agricultural practices.