On March 5, 2025, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR) organized a Field Day on Cucumber var. Arka Veera at Ancharahalli Village, Bengaluru Rural District, under the DST Project titled "Enhancing Livelihood Security of Small-Holder Farm Women of Karnataka through Horticultural Interventions using Pluralistic Extension Approaches" (DST-STIHCB-1817).
Farmers Mrs. Sushmitha and Mr. Madhu from Ancharahalli village showcased their successful cultivation of Cucumber Var. Arka Veera, emphasizing its high yield potential (25-30 t/ha), superior fruit quality and ease of management. The farmers also noted that Arka Veera fetches a premium price in the market earning Rs. 17 per kg, making it a preferred choice for other farmers and is suitable for year-round cultivation, offering flexibility in production cycles.
An interactive session was conducted by Dr. Ramya H. R., Scientist and PI of the DST Project, along with Dr. Vivek Hegde, Scientist, Mrs. Vimala D., Technical Assistant, ICAR-IIHR. Farmers received expert guidance on scientific cucumber cultivation practices, covering aspects such as nutrient and pest management strategies to enhance productivity and sustainable farming techniques to improve soil health.
The Field Day successfully demonstrated the benefits of adopting improved horticultural technologies, reinforcing the project's objective of enhancing the livelihood security of smallholder farm women through sustainable and profitable farming practices
