ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun organized one-day sensitization programme on the topic “Poly-tunnel fabrication for different farming systems under protected cultivation” under the Tribal Sub-Plan at Research Farm, Selakui, Dehradun, on June 09, 2023. In this programme, importance of protected cultivation of fruits and vegetables under global warming scenario in today’s context in crop production, natural resource conservation, and improvement in human health was emphasized

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Charan Singh, Acting Director and Head (Plant Science Division) narrated the benefits of fruits and vegetable cultivation in protected structures like polyhouse, poly-tunnel, etc and pointed out clearly to the farmers to grow seedlings of diversified vegetable crops even fruit crops under chilling temperature conditions during December-January for early transplanting in the field for livelihood security. He also emphasized to fruit and vegetables in polyhouses for maximizing production, income generation and doubling farmers’ income. On this occasion, Dr. A.C. Rathore, Principal Scientist (Horticulture) delivered a talk on use of poly-tunnels and polyhouses for cultivation of coloured capsicum and tomato with pruning / training system, cucurbits for improving productivity and earning their livelihoods.

He also emphasized use of organic based nutrient management in integration with liquid fertilizers for improving plant growth, yield and quality of the produce. Shri Suresh Kumar, CTO, also highlighted to maximize use of poly-tunnels for growing seedlings of different vegetable crops even for earning the income. Dr Jayprakash, Sr. Scientist (Forestry) proposed the vote of thanks to farmers who attended the event.

Mr. Rakesh Kumar and Shri Chatar Singh organized this programmes as organizing team member under the chairmanship of Dr. Jayprakash for the event. In addition to the officers and employees of the institute, about 38 participants including male, female and young farmers of Badripur, Medinipur, Shahpur-Kalyanpur, Judli were actively participated and learn about the fabrication of poly-tunnels with PVC pipes in the campaign. Mr. Surendra Kumar, Mr Sanjay Kumar, Shri Vijay Pal, Shri Vijay Singh, Shri Teli Ram, Mr. Balvir, Shri Yashpal, Mr. Puran, Mr. Suneel Kumar, Shri Bachan Singh, Shri Fateh Singh, Kamaljeet, Amit Kumar, Mr. Birampal, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, Mr. Nem Chand, Mr. Paliram, Roshan Lal, and other tribal farmers attended the programme.