ICAR-IIHR has distributed the seedlings of marigold hybrid Arka Abhi to farmers of Koppal dist under SCSP program being implemented through KVK, Gangavathi. As a follow up program, field day was conducted in the marigold field of Mr. Shivaraj at Nelgeri village of Gangavathi taluk on 13th October, 2023 to create awareness about the marigold hybrids viz., Arka Abhi, Arka Bhanu, Arka Vibha and Arka Shuba.
Dr. Tejaswini P., Principal Scientist, Division of Floriculture and Medicinal Crops, ICAR-IIHR and Dr.V.K Jayaraghavendra Rao, Principal Scientist and Head of Division of Social Science and Training, ICAR-IIHR along with Dr. Jyothi R, Scientist, KVK Gangavathi participated in the field day. Interaction meeting with the farmers was held and the information on good agricultural practices for successful marigold cultivation is shared. Dr. Tejaswini P. elaborated the purpose of marigold field day and delivered talk on marigold cultivation and seed production. She highlighted the potential of Arka Abhi and other potential flower crops suitable for that area. Dr.V.K Jayaraghavendra Rao, discussed about the extension activities with the farmers. Mr. Shivaraj, Mr. Maddenappa Kanageri, Mr. Bheemanna and Mr. Maruthi, marigold growers shared their experience. The doubts raised by farmers were clarified by Dr Tejaswini P, and Dr. Jyothi R.
Mr. Shivaraju shared his experience with other farmers and expressed that the variety Arka Abhi is a high yielder and highly profitable for all small and marginal farmers. On an average, about 55 kg of flowers were harvested per week and sold at average price of Rs. 25-30/kg. Farmers were briefed about the precautions to be taken while spraying harmful pesticides for managing the pest and diseases. The meeting came to end with vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Jyothi R, Scientist, KVK, Gangavati. This field day was coordinated by Dr.V.K Jayaragahvendra Rao, Head & Principal Scientist, Division of Social Science and Training and Dr. P. Tejaswini Principal Scientist, Division of Floriculture and Medicinal crops, ICAR-IIHR Bengaluru under SCSP program.
