A one-day farmer training programme on “Scientific Farming Methods of Pepper and Cardamom,” sponsored by the National Agricultural Development Project (RKVY-RAPTAAR), was held recently at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Regional Centre, Appangala.
The programme began with Vande Mataram and the ICAR song. Dr. HonnappaAsangi, Senior Scientist at ICAR-IISR Regional Centre, welcomed the gathering.
Dr. B.S. Chandrashekar, Joint Director of the Agriculture Department, inaugurated the programme and said that spice crops are high-value crops capable of generating good income. He emphasized the importance of adopting scientific farming practices and modern technologies.
Dr. S.J. Anke Gowda, Principal Scientist at ICAR-IISR Appangala Regional Centre, spoke about the research being conducted on spice crops and provided information on black pepper and cardamom production in Karnataka.
Progressive farmer Prema Ganesh from Maragod shared her experiences in black pepper cultivation.
Dr. G.A. Rajanna, Senior Scientist and Head of the ICAR-IISR Appangala Regional Centre, gave an overview of spice exports from India and highlighted the importance of reducing pesticide use, selecting suitable crop varieties, and adopting integrated nutrient management.
Scientists from the institute also provided technical information on pepper and cardamom varietal diversity, quality planting material production, water and nutrient management, intercropping, and pest and disease management.
Dr. Akshitha H.J., Senior Scientist at ICAR-IISR Appangala Regional Centre, delivered the vote of thanks.
More than 110 farmers from various districts of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu participated in the training programme.
