A one-day Farmers’ Interaction Programme on Plant Diversity Management was held on March 19, 2025, at Siang, Block Gohar, District Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. The event brought together 500 farmers from the panchayats of Gohar, Gowar, and Siang. The primary objective of the programme was to promote awareness about plant genetic resource (PGR) management and support farmers, particularly from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, through various government initiatives.
To empower women participants, 100 women farmers were provided with sewing machines and 5 kg of maize seeds each, supporting both agricultural productivity and income generation. Additionally, 400 other farmers received essential farming materials, including one kilta, one crate, and farm implements like spades, bill hooks, and garden rakes, along with 5 kg of maize seeds.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Narender Negi, who introduced the dignitaries and set the stage for the discussions. Dr. Mohar Singh delivered an informative session on PGR management, emphasizing the significance of conserving Himalayan bio-resources. Dr. Pankaj Sood, Programme Coordinator of KVK Mandi, highlighted the vital role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras in supporting rural communities through skill development, agricultural training, and extension services. Dr. D.P. Walia, Head of ICAR-IARI Shimla, provided insights into the latest wheat and barley varieties developed by IARI, elaborating on their agronomic benefits and cultivation practices. Shri Chaman Singh, CF&AO, NBPGR New Delhi, outlined the government initiatives under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP), focusing on improving the livelihoods of SC farmers. Dr. S.K. Kaushik, Nodal Officer (SC-SP), commended NBPGR’s efforts in supporting SC communities through targeted agricultural programs.
The successful organization of the programme was supported by the dedicated efforts of Shri Dayal Singh (Technical Officer) and Shri Sukh Dev (Technician) from NBPGR Shimla. Additionally, the contribution of the Pradhans of the respective Gram Panchayats was noteworthy. Shri Manoj Sharma, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Siang, Shri Sohan Lal, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Gowar, and Smt. Amra Thakur, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Gohar, actively facilitated farmer participation and ensured the smooth execution of the programme.
The event was jointly organized by ICAR-NBPGR RS Shimla and KVK Mandi under the SCSP. It served as a platform for knowledge sharing, enhanced community participation, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.
