Senior Agricultural Scientist Teaches Basics of Farming to Young Farmers at Krishi Vigyan Kendra

Interest in agricultural education among young people has grown in recent years. While job opportunities in fields like medicine, engineering, and management have declined, the employment prospects in agriculture have significantly improved. As a result, young talents are increasingly drawn towards the agricultural sector. Young farmers in the district are learning the basics of farming at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Agricultural Science Center) in Ambarpur (Sitapur) focusing on topics such as how to earn good profits with low costs, and the appropriate time to sow different crops.

Dr Vinod Kumar Singh, a senior agricultural scientist at the centre, said that it would not be entirely accurate to say that young people are entering agricultural education solely to serve society. The reality is that there are more job opportunities available in agricultural education, which is why young people are being attracted to this field. However, it is also true that they have dreams of doing something new, and it is essential that we help them realise these dreams. At the Agricultural Science Centre, many young individuals have received training in mushroom production, organic jaggery production, poultry farming, vermicomposting, and other areas, and are now earning good profits.

Farmers are Adopting These Agricultural Methods:

Integrated Farming System (IFS)

The Integrated Farming System, also known as the unified agricultural system, is particularly beneficial for small and marginal farmers. Larger farmers can also profit from this system. The primary objective of IFS is to make optimal use of every part of the farmland. It allows for the simultaneous cultivation of various crops, flowers, vegetables, livestock, fruit production, beekeeping, fish farming, etc. This system ensures full utilisation of resources, reduces costs, and increases productivity. The integrated farming system is environmentally friendly and enhances the fertility of the soil.

Trellis Method for Growing Vine Vegetables

The trellis method can be used to cultivate vine crops like bottle gourd, cucumber, and bitter gourd. In this method, bamboo or wire frames are created in the field to lift the vegetable vines off the ground. By using this method, farmers can save up to 90-95 per cent of their crops. This technique can be a blessing for farmers growing vegetables during the rainy season, as water does not accumulate on the trellis, reducing the risk of crop rot. Additionally, if the crop is affected by disease, it becomes easier to spray medicine using the trellis system.