Field Day and Input Distribution for SC farmers at Vetore, Kudal Maharashtra

 

    A comprehensive Field Day and Input Distribution program was organized on 22 August 2025 at Vetore village in Kudal, Maharashtra, under the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP) initiative. The event aimed to empower Scheduled Caste farmers through knowledge-sharing and resource support. Dr. Uthappa A. R., Senior Scientist (Agroforestry), delivered an insightful session on the scientific approaches to bamboo cultivation and its potential to enhance rural livelihoods. He also introduced the ongoing research and development initiatives at ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (CCARI), Goa, and emphasized the various government schemes available to Scheduled Caste farmers under the SCSP framework. Shri Milind Patil, a progressive bamboo farmer and bamboo entrepreneur from Kudal, shared his practical experiences in bamboo farming. He elaborated on cultivation techniques, value addition strategies, and the array of government schemes facilitating market access and financial support for bamboo growers. As part of the support initiative, essential agricultural tools including pickaxes, spades, billhooks, sickles, coconut climbing machines and, planting materials for bamboo, coconut, and arecanut were distributed to 20 beneficiary farmers. The farmers actively participated in the event and proudly demonstrated their traditional bamboo weaving techniques and craftsmanship, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and artisanal skills of the region. The event was successfully coordinated by Dr. Uthappa A. R., Shri Ravi Kadam, and Shri Sarvesh.