Training programme for farmers held in the Nilgiris

The ICAR–Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CTCRI), Thiruvananthapuram conducted a training programme in the Nilgiris on February 20 for farmers.

According to a press release, the programme on “Improved Production Technologies of Tropical Tuber Crops and Distribution of Critical Farm Inputs” at Kappala village, Gudalur, was inaugurated by M. Kavitha, head, Horticultural Research Station (HRS), TNAU, Ooty.

The technical sessions were handled by R. Muthuraj, Principal Scientist, and J. Suresh Kumar, Co-Principal Investigators (Co-PIs), Tribal Sub Plan (TSP), ICAR-CTCRI, Sreekariyam on improved production technologies of tropical tuber crops.

A total of 80 farmers from the hamlets of Kappala village participated in the programme in which farm implements and input materials were distributed to 50 beneficiaries.

Following the training, the team visited the fields of select beneficiaries. During the last week of September 2025, sweet potato planting materials of varieties Bhu Krishna, Bhu Sona, and SP 95/4 were distributed to these farmers. The performance of the varieties, in terms of vegetative growth and tuber development, was promising and well received by the farmers, the press release added.