During 25-27 June 2026, ICAR–Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture organized Farmers and scientists interaction under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) .Under this programme a series of activities conducted to strengthen the livelihoods of Scheduled Caste (SC) farmers in Kotapally Mandal of Mancherial district, Telangana.

The activities aimed at improving agricultural productivity and enhancing livelihood opportunities among SC farming communities under the SCSP programme .The programme was coordinated by Dr. K. B. Sridhar, Senior Scientist (Agroforestry) and Nodal Officer (SCSP), and Dr. H. B. Santosh, Senior Scientist (Plant Breeding).

As part of the programme, foundation seed (400 bags of 3kg each) of pigeon pea (var. WRG-255) was distributed to SC farmers of Rawalapalle, Kollur and Shetpally villages. Along with the seeds, the biofertilizers (400 bags of 1kg each) were also distributed for seed treatment before sowing. The role of biofertilizers in promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers was also emphasized along with the demonstration of biofertilizer usage.

To promote backyard poultry as an additional source of income and nutrition, a day-old poultry chicks were distributed to SC farmers of Rawalapalle and Edagatta villages. Two 3-row bullock drawn planters were distributed to the Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) of Rawalapalle and Edagatta villages to improve access to farm implements and enhance agricultural operations for small and marginal farmers in the region.