A two-day training programme on Natural farming was organized at ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Gonikoppal, Kodagu on 14 -15th November 2022. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Vijay Angadi, Programme officer, Kisanvani, AIR, Madikeri. In his inaugural address highlighted on the importance of natural resources (sun light, air, water), crop planning, planting of local fruits & vegetables in human diet, preservation of local seeds, native trees and soil and water conservation techniques in agriculture. Mr. K.A. Devaiah, Subject Matter specialist (Horticulture) spoke on the different avenues to be strengthened in the practicing coffee based mixed farming system for increasing the crop diversity and enhancement of farm income. Later, Mr. Prabhakar, B. Subject Matter specialist (Horticulture) presented the principals and practices of natural farming practices. Integration of crop and livestock components for main income, mulching techniques for improvement of soil health and reduce competition from weeds to the main crops.

The onsite preparation of Beejamrutha, Jeevamrutha and Ghana jeevamrutha and its applications methods as nutrient supplements in natural farming. Importance and skills of preparation and application methods of Brahmastra, Neemastra for management of pest and diseases. Shri. Sathish, C.P. natural farming practitioner, Chowdlu village, Somwarpet shared his experience of natural farming in coffee cultivation. Also, arranged a field visit to Shri. Boppanda Ravi natural farming plot of coffee, paddy, arecanut at Nangala village of Virajpet taluk to the participants as part of the exposure visit. A total of 40 farmers and farm women participated and got benefited the programme. The programme was coordinated by Mr. Prabhakar, B. Subject Matter specialist (Horticulture).