Empowering remote Dodra Kwar farmers with climate-resilient agri

In a significant step towards inclusive agricultural growth, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) teams have reached Dodra Kwar, one of the most remote regions of Shimla district, under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA). Launched by Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the campaign aims to empower farmers with modern and climate-resilient agricultural practices.

The initiative is being led by Prof. R.S. Chandel, Vice Chancellor of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), and Dr Inder Dev, Director of Extension Education. With strong coordination from the Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station, Mashobra, and the State Agriculture Department, expert teams have been visiting remote villages in Rohru, Chirgaon, Kupvi, and Chopal.

Dr Usha Sharma, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Shimla and Nodal Officer for VKSA, emphasized the campaign’s commitment to ensuring no farmer is left behind, regardless of geographical barriers. Over the past two weeks, field teams have organized awareness drives, interactive sessions, and live demonstrations to help farmers adopt sustainable and improved farming techniques.

Dr Inder Dev highlighted the effort to blend advanced technologies with traditional knowledge, thereby ensuring long-term productivity and ecological sustainability.

Shimla’s unique agricultural landscape and rich biodiversity offer ideal conditions for integrating indigenous farming systems with modern innovations. The VKSA campaign has leveraged this synergy to boost food and nutritional security, support climate-resilient farming, and enhance rural livelihoods.

The campaign has also seen enthusiastic participation from farmers, self-help groups, women, and rural youth, marking a positive shift towards sustainable agriculture in remote Himalayan villages.