Palampur Agriversity Empowers Farmers with Hands-On Bamboo Farming Training

In a significant step toward promoting sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSKHPKV), Palampur, successfully concluded a three-day training programme on scientific bamboo cultivation. The initiative was organized by the Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, College of Basic Sciences, in collaboration with the Directorate of Extension Education under the National Bamboo Mission.

The training brought together 30 farmers from different districts of Himachal Pradesh, offering them valuable insights into bamboo farming as a viable and profitable alternative livelihood. Over the course of three days, participants learned about modern bamboo cultivation practices, nursery management, plantation techniques, pest and disease control, value addition, and marketing opportunities available through the National Bamboo Mission.

A major highlight of the programme was the practical exposure provided to farmers at the university’s bamboo nursery. Participants received hands-on training in bamboo propagation methods and nursery management, enabling them to better understand the scientific aspects of bamboo cultivation.

The valedictory session was attended by Dr. Vinod Sharma, Director of Extension Education, as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Rajan Katoch, Dean of the College of Basic Sciences, was present as the Guest of Honour. The training was supervised by Dr. Lav Bhushan, while Dr. Radhika Sharma, Principal Investigator of the National Bamboo Mission project, coordinated the programme.

Addressing the participants, both Dr. Sharma and Dr. Katoch emphasized the growing importance of bamboo farming in enhancing farmers’ incomes while supporting environmental conservation. They encouraged participants to adopt scientific cultivation techniques and appreciated the department’s efforts in spreading awareness about the crop’s economic potential and ecological benefits.

The programme concluded on a positive note with the distribution of participation certificates, bamboo saplings, and study materials to all trainees. Farmers praised the practical and informative nature of the training, describing it as a valuable initiative that could help expand sustainable bamboo-based livelihoods across Himachal Pradesh.