Empowering 800 Farmers: Transforming Lives as Best Vegetable Cultivation Volunteers to Combat Telangana’s Food Shortage
Farmers in Telangana are set to enhance their vegetable cultivation skills as part of a new initiative aimed at addressing agricultural challenges. During the inaugural day of the three-day All India Crop Research Project (AICRP) annual meeting at the Vegetable Research Centre in Rajendranagar, key issues regarding vegetable farming were explored. Notably, data revealed a concerning decline in vegetable acreage, with Telangana’s vegetable cultivation area shrinking from 300,000 acres a decade ago to just 100,000 acres in the 2024-25 period.
Sudhakar Pandey, Assistant Director General of the Indian Institute of Agricultural Research, highlighted the significant growth in horticultural crops, which have doubled in area over the past 12 years. He projected that the sector could reach a valuation of $747 billion by 2047. Moreover, he noted an increase in the per capita consumption of horticultural products, which has risen from 5 kg to 9.7 kg. However, despite these promising trends, post-harvest losses in horticultural products remain substantial, amounting to ₹5,700 crore annually.
To combat the decline in vegetable cultivation, Agriculture Department Secretary K. Surendra Mohan announced that over 800 farmers will be trained as master vegetable cultivation volunteers. These farmers will then disseminate their knowledge to others, helping to bolster local agricultural practices. Raji Reddy, Vice Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, echoed the importance of this initiative, emphasizing the urgent need to expand vegetable farming in the state.
Pandey called for intensified research to develop vegetable varieties that are resilient to climate change and resistant to multiple pests and diseases. Additionally, he underscored the importance of producing crops that are not only rich in nutrients but also suitable for export markets. With an estimated production potential of 369 million tonnes of horticultural produce from just 13% of cultivated land, the goal is to meet the forecasted demand of 599 million tonnes by 2047.
The meeting also featured the release of annual reports from the AICRP and the Horticultural University, along with research updates on drone technology in okra and ridge gourd farming. This progressive approach aims to incorporate modern technology into traditional agricultural practices, potentially transforming the sector and enhancing food security in Telangana.
As the challenges facing vegetable agriculture become more pressing, the commitment to training and research indicates a vital step toward revitalizing an industry that is essential for the region’s economy. By promoting best practices and innovative solutions, Telangana’s agricultural community can work collaboratively to secure a more prosperous and sustainable future in vegetable cultivation.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/over-800-farmers-to-be-trained-as-best-vegetable-cultivation-volunteers-to-solve-shortage-in-telangana/article70656164.ece
Category : Telangana
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Publish Date: 2026-02-21 11:10:00
