A special farmer awareness programme on “Crop Diversification” was organized

A special farmer awareness programme on “Crop Diversification” was organized on 31st, March 2026, by the Telangan Rythu Vigyana Kendram (TRVK), Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, under the aegis of Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU).

Dr. D. Srilatha, Principal Scientist and Coordinator of TRVK, led the session and expressed concern over the declining soil fertility and reduced yields resulting from traditional monocropping (growing the same crop repeatedly). She explained that shifting from single-crop systems to include pulses and oilseeds enhances nitrogen fixation, thereby improving soil health and long-term productivity.

Through interactive questionnaires, the team identified major hurdles preventing farmers from adopting diversification, including:

• Menace of monkeys and wild boars.
• Water scarcity and labor shortages.
• Lack of adequate transport and logistics.

She also suggested that farmers located near urban centers should pivot toward vegetable and flower cultivation to maximize profits. She also emphasized the potential for additional income through the development of agricultural by-products. Government Support and Incentives The scientists educated farmers on the various government incentives and marketing facilities available to promote the expansion of pulse production. They provided technical tips on achieving higher yields with minimal investment, clearing several doubts raised by the participants. The programme saw active participation from: Agricultural Extension Officers (AEOs) Sri K. Anil, Smt. Sandhya, Smt. Ch. Lavanya, and Smt. S. Madhuri. FPO Representatives: Sri M. Siddareddy (Chandupatla FPO Coordinator) and Sri Chandrashekhar (Atmakur FPO). Farmers from three mandals (Bhuvangiri,Athmakukur, Rajapeta) across the district attended the session and engaged in the technical discussions.