By Fr Bento D’Souza for BIS Mumbai

Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK) Kedgaon, conducted a comprehensive training program focused on onion crop cultivation and organic manure management in Ahmednagar on Saturday, October 26, 2024. The initiative attracted a diverse group of seventy-six enthusiastic onion farmers from Ahmednagar District, including participants from Shrigonda and Parner blocks. The primary aim of the training was to equip these farmers with modern techniques and knowledge to enhance their onion cultivation practices, ultimately improving yield and sustainability.

Mr Sandip Berad, a staff member at BGVK, opened the session by welcoming all attendees and introducing the esteemed resource persons for the day: Dr Adinath Takte and Dr Sukhdev Ransing from Rahuri Krishi Vidyapeeth. Dr Takte, an active staff member of the institute, and Dr Ransing, a former member, brought a wealth of expertise to the training, emphasizing the importance of effective crop maintenance, planning, and management strategies essential for achieving a successful onion harvest.

Dr Ransing elaborated on the critical differences between organic and chemical farming. He passionately advocated for the use of organic manure, highlighting its benefits for soil health and crop yield. He recommended traditional organic fertilizers like cow dung and vermicompost, which not only enhance soil fertility but also promote sustainable farming practices. His insights were particularly valuable in fostering a deeper understanding of organic farming methods among the participants.

Meanwhile, Dr Takte focused on essential topics such as soil testing, soil health assessment, and treatment practices tailored for onion cultivation. He provided practical guidance on various stages of onion farming, from planting to harvesting, and discussed the integration of technology in agriculture to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

The session was well-received, with participants actively engaging in discussions and sharing their own experiences. Mr Gaikwad, a farmer in attendance, expressed his appreciation for the training, stating, “The program was very fruitful, and we plan to apply this knowledge in the field. We hope more such training sessions are held again.” 

The overall sentiment among the participants reflected gratitude towards BGVK for organizing such an informative event. The training not only equipped farmers with critical knowledge but also fostered a sense of community among them, reinforcing the importance of continued education in agricultural practices. Dr Ransing’s on-going consultancy role with BGVK further underscores the organization's commitment to supporting local farmers in their pursuit of sustainable agriculture.