Vikal Sharma
Palampur :- Under the Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project (HPCDP Phase–II), supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the District Project Management Unit, Palampur, organised a one-day training camp on the management of Farmer Development Associations at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kangra.
Around 40 farmers from 14 sub-projects under the Block Project Management Units of Dehra and Shahpur participated in this training camp. The main objective of the program was to make farmers aware of the structure of Farmer Development Associations, their importance, and the management responsibilities after the completion of the project.
During the program, subject expert Dr. Rajneesh Sharma provided detailed information about the major activities of the project. He particularly highlighted the initiatives such as Small Farmer Horticulture Empowerment Promotion, Production Management and Value Realization Programs, and the concept of JICA vegetable gardens. He explained that the main purpose of these initiatives is to increase farmers’ income along with promoting natural and chemical-free farming.
Retired District Project Manager Dr. Prem Lal Sharma extensively discussed the role and responsibilities of the management committees of Farmer Development Associations. He clarified that after the construction and implementation phase of the project, all its assets and resources will be handed over to the farmers. In such a situation, it will be the responsibility of the associations to ensure the continuity of the project. He urged farmers to collect regular monthly contributions to avoid financial difficulties related to operations and maintenance.
On this occasion, Dr. Deep Kumar, Scientist KVK Kangra, Abhinandan, Agriculture Officer, and Marketing Officer Niket Sharma were also present and shared useful suggestions while interacting with the farmers.
Presiding over the program, District Project Manager Dr. Yoginder Pal said that the JICA project is becoming a strong foundation for livelihood improvement and self-reliance for the farmers of the state. He also added that the active role of Farmer Development Associations will ensure the long-term success of the project and the prosperity of farmers.
Vikal Sharma
