Training sessions along with seed distribution of Redgram took place on June 11, 2025, as part of the Model Pulse Village initiative, followed by the CFLD-pulses project on June 17, 2025, both held in Vikarabad District, Telangana.
On June 11, 2025, the ICAR-CRIDA-KVK team, led by Dr. Chandrakant M. H, Sr. scientist & Head of KVK, along with Dr. Gautam Veer Chauhan, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy), Dr. S. Dilip, SMS (Agricultural Extension) and Shri. P. Ramakrishna, Technical Officer, conducted a visit to the village of Gingurthi in the Tandur Mandal of Vikarabad District.
Shri. M. Kurmaiah, Tandur Mandal Agriculture Officer, welcomed the KVK team and briefly described the objective of our visit to the farmers. In his introductory speech, Shri. P. Ramakrishna, Technical Officer, CRIDA stated that, "This seed distribution initiative provides farmers with certified seeds suitable for their soil and climate, while also offering knowledge and resources for sustainable pulse cultivation”.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Chandrakant M.H, Head-KVK, stressed the importance of pulses as a key protein source and their critical role in enhancing soil fertility. He mentioned that by adopting collective cultivation, farmers can leverage shared resources, collective expertise, and enhanced market access, thereby making pulse farming more sustainable and profitable for rural communities.
Dr. S. Dilip, SMS (Agricultural Extension) mentioned that this project provides comprehensive support, which includes training sessions, demonstration plots, and technical assistance to help farmers implement best practices.
Dr. Gautam V. Chauhan, SMS (Agronomy) described the process of applying biofertilizer to seeds prior to sowing.
Later the team distributed Redgram (TDRG-59) foundation seeds and Biofertilizer packs to the eligible farmers. Approximately 375 farmers from the surrounding villages took part in the training cum distribution programme.
Under the CFLD-pulses programme, the team has provided training and distributed high-quality Redgram seeds (TDRG-59) to assist farmers in their agricultural efforts. These foundation seeds have been chosen for their exceptional performance and yield potential, allowing farmers to optimize their crop production this Kharif season. Farmers were urged to take full advantage of this opportunity and anticipate the beneficial effects on their harvests.
Representatives from WASSAN (Watershed Support Services and Activities Network) including Mr. Anil, Vinay along with J. Harika, the Agriculture Extension Officer for the Mothkur cluster in Doma mandal, took part in the Training cum distribution program, which also involved around 200 farmers from the aforementioned villages.
These both training programs aimed to encourage sustainable agriculture by supplying high-quality Redgram seeds (TDRG-59) to local farmers, which will help increase productivity and reduce crop losses.