The Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) program was successfully organized at Kakavata village, Post-Lanjigarh Road, Kalahandi, Odisha by ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research in collaboration with Jana Sahajya NGO and Hydenmet Solutions Private Limited on 18th December 2024. The programme saw active participation of more than 100 farmers and farm women, with an impressive 80% of the attendees being women stakeholders, underscoring the vital role of women in agriculture and horticulture. Mrs. Sita Devi, Chairperson of Jana Sahajya NGO welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of horticulture in enhancing rural livelihoods.
Dr.(Mrs.) Smaranika Mishra, Scientist, ICAR-IIHR shared the insights into production technology and improved practices for vegetables and minor horticultural crops, emphasizing their health benefits. Dr. Satyapriya Singh, Scientist, CHES-ICAR-IIHR, Bhubaneswar elaborated on the role of tribal communities in germplasm conservation, sustainable plant protection practices and the importance of organic practices for environmental sustainability. He also addressed the critical role of women in horticulture and their contributions to dietary diversity for healthier families. Mr. P.C. Majhi, Technical Assistant, guided farmers on adopting the cultivation of underutilized cucurbits like spine gourd, ivy gourd. Dr. G.C. Acharya, CHES, ICAR-IIHR, Bhubaneswar encouraged the large-scale adoption of climate resilient native crops and importance of TSP programme for the benefit of tribal farmers of the state.As part of the event, vegetable seeds and kits were distributed to participants, fostering practical implementation of shared knowledge. The interactive session provided a platform for participants to voice their concerns, which were amicably addressed by the experts.
The program was coordinated by Dr. Smaranika Mishra, Dr Satyapriya Singh and Dr. G.C. Acharya, and Sri P C Majhi. This initiative reaffirmed the commitment of ICAR-IIHR for empowering tribal communities and promoting sustainable horticultural practices.
