Odisha Samachar Odisha Breaking News , Odisha Current News , Odisha News
Related Articles
Bhubaneswar, 13/9/2025 ( Odisha Samachar )- The Krishi Vigyan Kendra- Khordha, under the aegis of ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar, organized a two-day training programme on “Integrated Farming System (IFS) and Farmer-Scientist Interaction” under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) of the Government of India from 12-13 September, 2025. Dr. P.K. Sahoo, Director, ICAR-CIFA, graced the inaugural session as Chief Guest, emphasizing the critical role of Integrated Farming System in promoting sustainable agriculture and improving farmers’ income.
He underscored the importance of adopting scientific practices and modern technologies to transform rural livelihoods, while commending KVK-Khordha’s initiatives under the SCSP in empowering Scheduled Caste farmers through capacity building, skill development and field-based interventions. Dr. Harapriya Nayak, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK-Khordha, welcomed the participants and provided an overview of the programme, highlighting the relevance of IFS in ensuring income stability, nutritional security and sustainable resource utilization. She reiterated KVK’s commitment to transferring climate-resilient and economically viable technologies from lab to land. During the technical sessions, Dr. P.R. Sahoo, Subject Matter Specialist (Fisheries), sensitized farmers on the potential of community aquaculture and the use of agri-drones in agriculture and aquaculture practices.
The programme also featured the distribution of agricultural inputs to demonstrate innovative technologies such as organic input production, community fish culture, crop production, vegetable and mushroom cultivation. Dr. P.K. Sahoo, Director, ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneswar, handed over inputs like vermicompost beds, floating fish feed, mushroom spawn, knapsack sprayers and nano urea to 15 women SHGs from seven villages of Balianta and Balipatna Blocks of Khordha district enhancing their access to sustainable farming resources. 
The valedictory session was graced by Dr. S.K. Roy, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Pune, as Chief Guest. He lauded KVK-Khordha’s efforts in promoting IFS-based training and encouraged continued collaboration between farmers and scientists for scaling sustainable agricultural practices. He also shared inspiring success stories of farmers and FPOs who achieved multi-source income through integrated approaches. As part of the Farmer-Scientist Interaction, Dr. H.K. De, Principal Scientist, ICAR-CIFA, engaged with farmers who shared field-level challenges and success stories. They received expert guidance on critical issues such as soil health, pest management, market linkages and post-harvest handling. The programme witnessed active participation from 50 Scheduled Caste farmwomen, FPCL members, extension personnel and scientists. Participants gained practical insights into various sectors such as crop production, livestock, poultry, fishery and allied agricultural activities, contributing to holistic agricultural and rural development.
