ICAR-KVK, Krishnagiri organized a One Day Workshop on Balanced Use of Fertilizer / Natural Farming under Khet Bachao Abhiyan on 18.06.2026 at Denkanikottai, Kelamangalam Block, with the objective of creating awareness among farmers on soil health management, balanced nutrient use and sustainable agricultural practices for the protection and improvement of farm soils.Dr.T. Sundarraj, Senior Scientist and Head, welcomed the gathering and explained the programme details. The programme was inaugurated and presided over by Dr. Shaik.N.Meera, Director, ATARI Zone X, Hyderabad. In his presidential address Dr. Meera emphasized the need for farmers to reduce the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and adopt sustainable agricultural practices. He advocated the increased use of organic manures, biofertilizers, biocontrol agents, and quality seeds to improve soil health and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.Prior to the workshop, Dr. Meera visited a capsicum cultivation unit under a polyhouse and interacted with the farmer regarding cultivation practices, production performance, and cost of cultivation. Dr. K. Geetha, Professor & Head, Regional Research Station, TNAU, Paiyur insisted the farmers to use microbial cultures for the nutrient management and sustainable crop yields. Joint Director of Agriculture, Krishnagiri motivated the farmers to go for the Soil test-based fertilizer application for the soil health management. Dr. A. Thirumurgan, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Vellore stressed the farmers about importance of using biocontrol agents for effective management pest and disease in crops. Mrs. K. Uma, Joint Director of Agriculture explained the role of biofertilizers in maintaining soil health and informed farmers about the subsidized biofertilizer inputs available through the Department of Agriculture. Scientists from KVK Krishnagiri delivered technical sessions on the importance of soil testing, method of soil sample collection, the role of bio-manures, and their preparation techniques. The programme was also attended byMr. Xavier, Assistant Director of Agriculture, and Mrs. Ajila, Assistant Director of Horticulture, Kelamangalam. As part of the programme, Mucuna seeds and Daincha seeds were distributed to selected farmers to encourage the cultivation of green manure crops for improving soil organic matter and nutrient availability. Informational pamphlets on ‘Natural Farming’ were also distributed to all participating farmers to enhance their understanding of natural and sustainable farming practices. A total of 62 farmers participated in the workshop and benefited from the technical guidance and input support provided during the programme. The workshop created awareness among farmers on the importance of balanced fertilizer use, adoption of natural farming practices, and sustainable agricultural production systems, thereby contributing to the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan.

ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Krishnagiri organized an input distribution programme at Penneswarmadam on 08.05.2026 for the benefit of Scheduled Caste (SC) Self-Help Group (SHG) members under SCSP programme. During the programme, the Subject Matter Specialists of Soil Science and Agricultural Extension along with the Programme Assistant (Agricultural Engineering), explained the mandate, objectives, and various extension activities of KVK aimed at improving the livelihood and socio-economic status of farming communities, rural women, and rural youth. The officials highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship development, value addition, and small-scale enterprises as sustainable income-generating opportunities for rural women. Awareness was also created on the balanced and judicious use of fertilizers for maintaining soil health, improving crop productivity, and reducing unnecessary input costs. The participants were encouraged to adopt scientific agricultural practices and make effective use of the support provided through various developmental programmes. As part of the programme, Instant Rice Wet Grinders were distributed to the SC SHG members to promote self-employment opportunities and strengthen income generation activities among rural women. The beneficiaries expressed their interest in utilizing the equipment for small-scale food processing and value addition enterprises. A total of 20 participants attended and benefited from the programme.

An awareness and training programme on Organic Farming was successfully organized by ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Krishnagiri, for farmers from Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh at the KVK campus on 25.03.2026. The programme was presided over by the Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, who emphasized the significance of adopting organic farming practices for sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and improvement of soil fertility. He also explained the mandate of KVK and highlighted the various extension activities, demonstrations, and farmer-oriented programmes conducted regularly for enhancing farmers’ knowledge and skills.During the programme, Subject Matter Specialists delivered technical talks on important topics such as Soil Health Management, Organic Farming, Natural Farming, and Bio-input Production. Special emphasis was given to the preparation and use of organic inputs such as Panchagavya, Jeevamrutham, and Vermicompost, along with their role in improving crop growth and soil microbial activity. The experts also provided practical suggestions and recommended suitable remedial measures to address the field-level problems faced by the farmers. In addition, the participants were educated on fodder production techniques and the importance of maintaining quality fodder for supporting livestock-based farming systems. The programme was highly interactive, and farmers actively participated by sharing their experiences and clarifying their doubts. A total of 51 farmers attended the programme and benefited from the valuable technical knowledge and practical exposure provided during the training session.

ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra celebrated International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026 at the KVK campus, centered on the global theme “Rights, Justice, and Action for All Women and Girls”. The programme aimed to recognize the vital role of women in Agriculture and Empower rural women through awareness and knowledge sharing. The event was presided over by Dr. T. Sundarraj, Senior Scientist and Head, who emphasized the importance of Women’s Day and also elaborated on the relevance of the theme in ensuring equal opportunities, justice, and active participation of women in all sectors, especially Agriculture. Mrs. M. Punithavalli, Assistant Director of Agriculture, Krishnagiri Block, graced the occasion as the chief guest and sensitized participants about various state government schemes and support systems available for women in Agriculture and allied activities, encouraging them to utilize these benefits for improving their livelihood. Mrs. S. Poomathi, SMS (Home Science), delivered an insightful technical lecture highlighting women on the multifaceted personalities. She discussed their diverse roles, the importance of gender mainstreaming, and strategies for empowering rural women through sustainable livelihood opportunities.The programme also featured the felicitation of three successful women entrepreneursMrs. Girija from Mathur, Mrs. Sujatha from Periyakottapalli, and Mrs. K. Ammu from Kalliyur who shared their inspiring journeys. A total of 63 women actively participated, making the event impactful and enriching.

WANDIWASH, March 8, 2026 – To honor the spirit of female resilience and entrepreneurship, the ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Thiruvannamalai, in collaboration with Sri Akilandeswari Women’s College (SAWC), hosted a grand celebration for International Women’s Day today. The event, held at the SAWC campus, brought together 130 participants, including students, faculty, and local agricultural leaders, to discuss the evolving role of women in the modern economy. Focus on Agri-Business and Innovation The celebration went beyond ceremony, focusing on tangible economic empowerment. Experts delivered lectures on the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, highlighting the critical need for women’s inclusion in tech-driven agriculture. Key discussions centered on business avenues for students, specifically highlighting the untapped potential in agri-related enterprises. Speakers encouraged students to look toward value-addition and sustainable farming as viable career paths. Exhibition Showcases Local Talent A major highlight of the day was the exhibition organized by beneficiaries of the ICDS and MSME programs. The display featured: Honoring Local Trailblazers In a move to inspire the younger generation, three local success stories were put in the spotlight. KVK honored three prominent entrepreneurs for their exceptional contributions to the agricultural sector: These women were lauded for their dedication to building sustainable agri-enterprises and serving as role models for the Wandiwash community. Dignitaries in Attendance The event was graced by several prominent figures, including: The day concluded with a call to action for students to bridge the gap between traditional farming and modern business practices, ensuring a more equitable future for rural India.

The Department of Agriculture organized a District Level Millet Mela-cum-Exhibition on 18.02.2026 at Shoolagiri village in coordination with the Krishi Vigyan Kendra. The District Collector presided over the programme and emphasized the importance of promoting millets as climate-resilient crops that ensure nutritional security and sustainable farming practices. Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) given technical talk on climate-resilient agriculture, natural and organic farming techniques, and improved millet cultivation practices to enhance productivity and soil health. The Subject Matter Specialist (Home Science) delivered an informative session on post-harvest management of millets and highlighted various value addition techniques to increase farmers’ income through millet-based products. An exhibition stall showcased major ragi varieties along with a wide range of value-added millet products, attracting significant interest from farmers and visitors. The programme witnessed the active participation of the Joint Director of Agriculture, Deputy Director of Agriculture, Block Assistant Directors of Agriculture (ADAs), Agricultural Officers (AOs), Assistant Agricultural Officers (AAOs), Block Technology Managers (BTMs), and Assistant Technology Managers (ATMs). In total, 350 farmers and stakeholders participated in the programme, making it a grand success.

ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Krishnagiri, organized an Animal Health Campaign under the DAPSC/SCSP programme at Mittapalli village, Uthangarai block, on 24 December 2025. The campaign aimed at improving livestock health and enhancing the livelihood security of Scheduled Caste farmers through need-based veterinary interventions and awareness creation. The programme focused primarily on deworming of livestock, wherein experts emphasized the significance of regular deworming in improving animal health, growth, reproduction, and overall productivity. In addition, awareness sessions were conducted on mastitis prevention and tick management, addressing major health challenges commonly faced in dairy and small ruminant farming. The campaign benefited 46 farmers, covering 140 cattle and 90 goats. Practical, hands-on deworming demonstrations were carried out, enabling farmers to understand correct deworming practices. Interactive discussions allowed farmers to clarify doubts and gain practical insights into effective livestock management. The programme was conducted by a multidisciplinary team comprising the Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, Uthangarai, along with the Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK, Krishnagiri, and Subject Matter Specialists (SMS) from the disciplines of Animal Science, Agricultural Extension, and Soil Science.

TNBRD conducted a three-day skill training program for rural youth on Agri Drones from December 8th to 10th, 2025 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Thiruvannamalai. This initiative aimed to benefit farmers in the Thiruvannamalai district and was organized in collaboration with Hand in Hand India, NGO, Kanchipuram and EDLI, Chennai. The program began with a welcome address by Mr. V. Suresh, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK. The inaugural function featured participation from Dr. Y. Joe, President of Hand in Hand NGO and Mr. Sandeep Mukherjee who welcomed the special guests and outlined the objectives and significance of the training. Mr. S. Ramesh, President, Tamil Nadu Rural Development, presided over the event and delivered a special address highlighting the crucial role of drones in creating employment opportunities for youth. Mr. P. Chowthry, Programme Assistant, KVK provided comprehensive explanations and demonstrations on drone operation and effective handling including the application of pesticides and fertilizers on paddy crops. Practical training and demonstrations on drone operation were conducted by Mr. A. Maniraj, Sales Manager and Mr. M. Shahjahan, Drone Engineer, from Avionics Drone Company, Chennai. The training concluded with a valedictory function attended by Mr. Vijay M Neehar, NABARD, District Development Manager, Mr. Chandrasekhar, Mr. Sandha patil, Directors of Hand in Hand India, Mr. Selvakumar, Manager at Hand in Hand and also Subject Matter Specialists from KVK. A total of 31 youths from various villages in the Thiruvannamalai district participated in this training program and gained valuable insights. All trained youth received training certificates, inputs and handbooks.

ICAR-KVK, Krishnagiri celebrated World Soil Day 2025 on December 5, 2025, with the theme “Healthy soils for healthy cities”. The event was part of KVK’s extension activities, presided over by the Senior Scientist and Head, who highlighted the importance of soil conservation. The program saw participation from 125 attendees, including farmers and school students from Tiruppathur. The Subject Matter Specialist (Soil Science) delivered technical talks on soil testing, health management, organic farming, and the significance of World Soil Day. Other experts shared insights on organic farming practices, panchagavya preparation, and its applications. As part of the event, 10 Soil Health Cards were distributed to farmers, empowering them with soil-specific recommendations. The event aimed to raise awareness about maintaining healthy soils for sustainable agriculture and urban ecosystems.

TNBRD celebrated the World Soil Day on December 12, 2025 at Modaiyur village of  Chetpet block in Thiruvannamalai district with the participation of  52 farmers and farm women. The main aim of the event is to create awareness among the farmers on soil and water health to identify the deficiencies or excesses of plant nutrient in their field.  The program began with a welcome address by Mr. V. Suresh, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK. He detailed the importance of soil testing, water testing and soil test based fertilization for reducing the cropping expenses.                      Mr. P.Chowthry, Programme Assistant (Lab Technician), KVK Thiruvannamalai had convened the event in association with BTM and ATM of ATMA. During the event, a lecture on soil fertility management was delivered, alongside demonstrations of soil and water sampling procedures to the participants. Participants acquired important insights in applying fertilizers based on soil test results, which can lead to cost savings by preventing over-or under-fertilization. In total, 52 soil samples and 20 water samples were collected and analyzed, resulting in the issuance of soil health cards that included fertilizer recommendations based on Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) technology.