On 12th July 2022, the Central Horticultural Experiment Station of the ICAR-IIHR at Chettalli organized a one-day training program on "Scientific Cultivation of Avocado" for farmers from Nilgiri district, Tamil Nadu, sponsored and supported by the Nilgiris Development Society (NDS), Gudalur, Nilgiris district. The training is mainly aimed at enriching farmers' knowledge about scientific avocado cultivation. It began with an inauguration function in which ICAR and IIHR songs were played and Dr Muralidhara B.M., Scientist (Fruit Science), welcomed the guests, NDS officials, farmers of Nilgiris district, and staff of CHES-Chettalli. The trainer for Nilgiris Development Society, Jude Martin, addressed the gathering and explained the various activities of the organization and knowledge gaps. During the seminar, Shri Bose Mandanna, Former Vice Chairman of the Coffee Board and Planter of Suntikoppa, spoke about the importance of avocados for generating additional income in coffee and tea estates. For the benefit of farmers, an extension folder titled "Scientific Cultivation of Avocado" was released. The programme was presided over by Dr Rajendiran S., Scientist and Head (I/c), CHES-Chettalli. The training programme was also attended by Father Anup, Assistant Director of NDS, and Mr Subin Jose, Programme Coordinator. The inaugural programme was ended with a vote of thanks by Mr. Madhu G.S., Scientist, CHES-Chettalli.
After the inauguration function, the training session started and Dr. Muralidhara, B.M. (Scientist) delivered a talk on advances in the cultivation of avocado, Dr. Rajendiran S. (Scientist), spoke about nutrient and water management in avocado and Mr. Madhu G.S. presented the major pests and diseases of avocado and their management. Field and nursery visits were also arranged for the farmers to show the technologies developed at CHES-Chettalli. Thirty farmers participated in this programme and they were actively involved in the discussion of various aspects of avocado cultivation and processing, felt happy, and expressed the usefulness of the training.
