In a significant stride towards sustainable agriculture in Solan, the MS Swaminathan School of Agriculture at Shoolini University recently organised a two-day workshop titled ‘Farmer’s Problems and Their Solutions: Interaction of Farmers with Agriculture Experts’. This event is part of the Initiative for Social Empowerment and Sustainability of Rural Population in the Western Himalayan Region.
The workshop brought together agricultural experts and local farmers to address the pressing challenges in farming and explore expert-driven solutions. A team of agricultural experts visited Shivathal village, where they interacted with the local farming community, including progressive farmer and village Pradhan Mrigank Sood, alongside 20 other local farmers.
Prof DD Sharma spearheaded discussions on modern farming techniques, while Assistant Professor Perminder stressed the importance of soil testing and micronutrient applications for enhancing apple production. Assistant Professor Anshul shared his expertise on training and pruning methods for apple trees. Additionally, Assistant Professor Dr Bhagyashree provided insights into effective disease management, and Assistant Professor Sonakshi offered guidance on apple processing techniques. The practical demonstration by Assistant Professor Bhupendra on training and pruning techniques was a highlight, sparking keen interest among farmers in adopting these scientific methods.
The engagement continued to Kundla and Shamti villages, where pioneering farmers Kamal and Naman, specialists in protected cultivation of carnations and capsicum, shared their experiences. DD Sharma highlighted the vital role of farmer participation in extension programmes. Associate Professor Ravinder Nath provided further expertise on insect management, Shweta Sharma on sustainable crop techniques, Rajendra Kumar on optimal fertiliser use, and Deepika Sood on disease management strategies.
Farmers from both villages praised the expert consultations. They expressed interest in additional training sessions to develop their agricultural skills further.
Prof Somesh Sharma, Associate Dean of the MS Swaminathan School of Agriculture, highlighted the success of the initiative in strengthening the regional agricultural community by bridging the gap between local farmers and scientific expertise.
Jan 31, 2025
