Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Sundernagar in Himachal Pradesh has been recognized as the best agricultural extension centre in the country. The prestigious award was announced by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for the year 2022-23, highlighting the centre's exceptional contributions to agricultural extension services.
Outstanding Achievements in Agricultural Extension
The KVK Sundernagar was selected from over 700 KVKs across India for its remarkable work in technology dissemination, capacity building of farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The centre has been instrumental in introducing innovative farming techniques, improving crop yields, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in the region.
Key Initiatives and Impact
- Technology Transfer: The centre has successfully transferred various agricultural technologies to farmers, including high-yielding crop varieties, integrated pest management, and water conservation methods.
- Training Programs: It has organized numerous training sessions and demonstrations, benefiting thousands of farmers and rural youth.
- Entrepreneurship Development: The KVK has encouraged agri-entrepreneurship, helping farmers set up small-scale enterprises like mushroom cultivation, beekeeping, and value addition of local produce.
- Women Empowerment: Special focus has been given to empowering women through self-help groups and skill development programs in agriculture and allied sectors.
Recognition and Future Plans
The award was presented during a ceremony at ICAR headquarters in New Delhi. Dr. S.K. Sharma, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Sundernagar, expressed gratitude and dedicated the award to the farming community of Himachal Pradesh. He stated that the centre will continue to work towards doubling farmers' income and promoting climate-resilient agriculture.
This recognition not only brings pride to the state but also sets a benchmark for other extension centres across the country. The KVK Sundernagar's model of participatory and need-based extension services serves as an inspiration for sustainable agricultural development.
