SPECIALTIES OF KRISHI VIGYAN KENDRAS (KVKS)

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), or Farm Science Centres, are dedicated institutions established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to bridge the gap between research and practical application in agriculture. They play a crucial role in enhancing farmers' knowledge, increasing productivity, and promoting sustainable farming techniques.

1. On-Farm Testing (OFT)

KVKs conduct on-farm trials to assess and refine location-specific sustainable agricultural practices. These trials help evaluate new technologies in real farm conditions before widespread adoption.

2. Frontline Demonstrations (FLD)

KVKs implement frontline demonstrations on farmers’ fields to showcase the benefits of improved technologies. These demonstrations focus on high-yielding crop varieties, improved irrigation methods, organic farming, and climate-resilient agriculture.

3. Need-Based Training Programs

KVKs provide tailored training programs for farmers, rural youth, and extension workers, covering topics like integrated pest management, organic farming, post-harvest processing, and agro-based entrepreneurship.

4. Vocational Training and Entrepreneurship Development

To encourage self-employment, KVKs offer training in various agricultural and allied sectors such as dairy farming, poultry farming, beekeeping, mushroom cultivation, and food processing.

5. Creative Extension Initiatives

KVKs use innovative methods to spread agricultural awareness, such as farmer-scientist interactions, mobile advisory services, radio talks, and cultural forms like folk songs and street plays.

6. Specialized Sections

KVKs operate multiple specialized sections catering to different aspects of agriculture:

• Soil Science: Soil testing, nutrient management, composting techniques, and organic matter improvement.
• Agronomy: Improving crop productivity through modern farming techniques, crop rotation, and water management.
• Horticulture: Promotion of high-value fruits, vegetables, floriculture, and protected cultivation (polyhouse and greenhouse farming).
• Plant Protection: Integrated pest and disease management, biological control methods, and pesticide safety training.
• Animal Science: Dairy, poultry, goat farming, artificial insemination, and native breed conservation.
• Fishery: Promotion of inland fisheries, aquaculture techniques, and ornamental fish farming.
• Home Science: Training in food preservation, value-added product development, nutrition awareness, and rural women empowerment.
• Agricultural Extension: Bridging farmers with modern technology through field visits, farmer fairs, digital platforms, and advisory services.

7. Plant Health Clinics

KVKs operate plant health clinics that diagnose crop diseases and soil health issues, providing expert recommendations for improving productivity.

8. Extensive Village Coverage

KVKs have an impressive outreach, covering approximately 78% of villages within their respective districts, ensuring maximum farmer engagement and knowledge dissemination.