A field day on “Arka Nikita “ was organized by ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru on 21.11.2019 at Mr Dhanjay’s bhendi field, Gopalpura Village, Bangaluru. The purpose was to demonstrate the productivity potentials and profitability of the hybrid under real farm situations. Dr.R.Venkattakumar, Principal Scientist and Head(i/c), Division of Social Sciences and Training, has extended a warm welcome to the farmers and briefed about ICAR-IIHR technologies to the farming community. Dr. M. Pitchiamuthu, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIHR explained importance of okra in our daily diet, its nutritional quality, salient features of Arka Nikita hybrid and package of practices for commercial cultivation. Dr. V. Sankar, Principal Scientist (Hort.), ICAR-IIHR had already distributed IIHR products like Arka Vegetable Special, Neem Soap, Pongamia Soap and Arka Microbial Consortia (Powder and liquid) for successful raising of bhendi crop. Dr. Achala Paripurna opined the importance of IIHR bio-pesticides for control of pest and disease under organic cultivation. Progressive farmer Mr Dhanjay shared his experience on Arka Nikita bhendi cultivation under organic package to all the participants. Mr. Basavraj, President, Siddaganga Organic Farmers Society, Nelamangala explained the marketing of organic vegetables and activities of Siddaganga Organic Farmers Society. The programme was attended by Dr. R. Venkattakumar, Dr M. Pitchaimuthu, Dr. V. Sankar, Dr. R. Senthil Kumar, Dr Achala Paripurna, Dr. V. Radhika, Mr Sasi Kumar along with farmers from neighbouring villages and participants of various training programmes of ICAR-IIHR, Bangaluru. Dr R.Senthil Kumar delivered vote of thanks to all the participants. This programme was coordinated by Dr. V. Sankar, Dr. Achala Paripurna, Dr. R. Senthil Kumar, ICAR-IIHR, Bangalore.
