Capacity Development Programme for Cluster Resource Persons (CRPs) / Krishi Sakhi’s under National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) organized by ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Idukki
(25-Nov-2025)
As part of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) initiatives, ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Idukki, in collaboration with ATMA Idukki and the Department of Agricultural Development & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Kerala, successfully conducted a five-day Capacity Development Programme for Cluster Resource Persons (CRPs) / Krishi Sakhi’s from 25th to 30th September 2025. The programme aimed to equip the selected CRPs with practical knowledge and technical skills essential for promoting natural farming in their respective clusters. The inaugural session held on 25th September 2025 was graced by Smt. Deena Abraham, Project Director, ATMA Idukki, who inaugurated the training. Dr. R. Marimuthu, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK Idukki, presided over the session and highlighted the growing relevance of natural farming in ensuring soil and environmental sustainability. The first day featured a detailed session on “Concepts of Natural Farming, Soil Health, and Importance of Microbial Diversity” by Ms. Manju Jincy Varghese, Subject Matter Specialist (Soil Science), ICAR-KVK Idukki. The session focused on the ecological principles of natural farming, the importance of microbial activity, and the ways to revitalize soil through organic inputs. On the second day (26th September), Ms. Ashiba A. led a session on “Cropping Systems in Natural Farming”, emphasizing integrated approaches and the role of diversified cropping in maintaining ecosystem balance. In addition, a session on Natural farming practices in Horticultural Crops was handled by Dr. Geethu M, SMS Horticulture, ICAR - KVK Idukki. The third day (27th September) was devoted to field exposure visits to practicing natural farming plots, where participants interacted with experienced farmers and observed practical demonstrations. Hands-on training on preparation of Jeevamrutham, Beejamrutham, and other indigenous formulations was conducted at the fields of Mr. Augustin Joseph and Mr. Alex Kanichai, Farmer Master Trainers (FMTs). During the visit, CRPs also had an interactive session with Dr. R. Marimuthu, who discussed the scientific rationale and implementation strategies for successful adoption of natural farming technologies. On the fourth day (29th September), a hands-on training programme on preparation of key natural farming inputs was held at ICAR-KVK Idukki under the guidance of FMT Mr. Augustin Joseph. Participants prepared and applied various bio-inputs and discussed the challenges and opportunities in establishing Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs) in their clusters. In addition, role of CRPs in ensuring sustainable productivity was handled by Preethu K Paul, SMS Agricultural Extension, ICAR KVK Idukki. The programme concluded on 30th September 2025 with a valedictory session that included feedback sharing, presentations by CRPs, and certificate distribution. The participants expressed that the training enhanced their confidence and technical knowledge to act as facilitators for scaling up natural farming practices across Idukki district. The five-day training at ICAR-KVK Idukki served as a practical platform for experiential learning and capacity enhancement, strengthening the human resource base for promoting the objectives of the National Mission on Natural Farming.
