Under the Farmer FIRST Programme (FFP), a Farmer–Scientist Interface Meeting-cum-Fruit Tree Saplings Distribution Programme was organised with the aim of promoting fruit-based livelihood diversification, strengthening farmer–scientist interaction, and encouraging the establishment of village orchards among the farmers in the tribal-dominated area. During the programme, Dr. P. K. Mukherjee, Principal Scientist and PI, FFP, explained the appropriate methods of planting, establishment and aftercare of fruit tree saplings distributed to the farmers.
As part of the livelihood diversification initiative, each saplings of five important fruit crops—mango, jackfruit, guava, papaya and custard apple—were distributed to 40 farmers, including 21 Mahila Kisans. The intervention was designed to encourage farmers to utilize available homestead for fruit cultivation while creating opportunities for additional income, nutritional security and long-term livelihood diversification. The distribution of fruit saplings was undertaken in response to farmers’ interest in fruit cultivation and is expected to contribute towards the development of village-level orchards in the adopted area.
Dr. D. V. Pawar and Dr. Jamaludheen, A, Co-PI of FFP, coordinated the overall programme and interacted with the participating farmers. The scientists encouraged farmers, particularly women farmers, to actively participate in diversified agricultural and livelihood activities supported under the programme.