Introduction

A two-day training workshop for Agriculture Extension Officers (AEOs) was organized by ORTC, Department of Home, at Narayanagaon, Pune on 26th and 27th. The programme was conducted with the objective of enhancing the participants’ understanding of agricultural marketing, vegetable cultivation, and sustainable farming practices. Agriculture Extension Officers from various agricultural settlements actively participated in the training programme.

 Objectives of the Training

The main objectives of the workshop were:

• To provide knowledge on market-oriented farming practices.
• To enhance understanding of agricultural marketing systems.
• To promote sustainable and organic vegetable farming.
• To create awareness about plant nutrition and biogas utilization.

 Day 1 Activities

The first day of the training focused on market understanding in farming. Participants learned the importance of conducting market research and market analysis before starting cultivation activities. The sessions emphasized that successful farming should be demand-driven and market-oriented.

As part of the practical learning experience, participants visited the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) market yard. During the visit, participants observed how farmers and traders from different parts of India negotiate prices and trade agricultural produce such as tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables. The exposure visit provided practical insights into agricultural marketing systems, price negotiation, and farmer-trader interactions.

 Day 2 Activities

The second day of the training programme was conducted at Shashwat Farming Foundation and focused on vegetable cultivation and sustainable farming practices. Mrs. Anuja Gadekar conducted the sessions and explained the importance of vegetable cultivation, especially through kitchen gardens at the household level.

Participants were encouraged to treat kitchen gardens as small laboratories where they can observe the growth, behaviour, and management practices of vegetables before adopting large-scale cultivation in the field.

The session also covered:

• Importance and uses of biogas in sustainable farming and daily life.
• Essential plant nutrients such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K).
• Their role in healthy plant growth and improved crop yield.
• Basic concepts of organic and sustainable vegetable farming.

 Resource Person

The training programme was effectively executed by Mrs. Anuja Gadekar, Anushka Gadhave and Nandkishor Khdedar who provided valuable guidance on organic and sustainable vegetable farming practices.

 Valedictory Session

The programme concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony conducted by the Director, Mr. Shriram Gadhave. During the concluding session, Mr. Gadhave encouraged participants to share their experiences and feedback regarding the training programme.

 Conclusion

The two-day training programme was highly informative, practical, and beneficial for all participants. It enhanced the knowledge and understanding of Agriculture Extension Officers regarding market-oriented farming, agricultural marketing systems, sustainable vegetable cultivation, and organic farming practices. The programme also encouraged participants to adopt practical and sustainable approaches in their agricultural extension work.