Theme (Day 3): “Haq Se Vikas-Bringing Government Schemes to Every Tribal Household” Date: 3 Nov 2026

As part of the third-day theme “Haq Se Vikas-Bringing Government Schemes to Every Tribal Household”, ICAR-DOGR, Pune organized an awareness-cum-training programme at Kanersar village, Pune under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan: Rabi 2026 and Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas 2026 celebrations. The programme aimed to create awareness about various government schemes for tribal welfare and agricultural development, promote scientific farming practices and improve farmers’ access to agricultural technologies and institutional support. A scientific team comprising Dr. Shailendra Gadge, Pr. Scientist (Agril. Extension); Dr. Satish Kumar, Sr. Scientist (Biochemistry); and Dr. Bhushan Bibwe, Sr. Scientist (ASPE), ICAR-DOGR conducted the programme which was attended by 31 participants including 26 male and 5 female farmers.

The scientific team sensitized farmers about government initiatives and welfare schemes related to agricultural development, farm mechanization, soil health and livelihood enhancement. Dr. Gadge highlighted ICAR-DOGR technologies for scientific onion and garlic cultivation, crop diversification, nursery management and improved production practices. Dr. Kumar emphasized INM, balanced fertilizer application and the use of organic manures and biofertilizers such as Azotobacter and PSB for maintaining soil health and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. Dr. Bibwe explained scientific onion storage and post-harvest management practices to minimize storage losses, maintain quality and enhance farmers’ income while also highlighting opportunities for value addition and entrepreneurship. The team further discussed climate-resilient agriculture, weather-based advisories, efficient resource utilization and suitable farming alternatives under water-scarcity conditions. Dr. Gadge also highlighted the contribution of Bhagwan Birsa Munda to tribal empowerment and the freedom struggle. Mrs. Vrushali Patil, Circle Agricultural Officer, emphasized the importance of sustainable agriculture, while Shri Pratik Avgan, Assistant Agricultural Officer, coordinated the programme. Farmers actively participated in the interaction and sought technical guidance on improving crop productivity, profitability and sustainable livelihoods.