SOA conducts farmers’ training
The Institute of Agricultural Sciences (IAS), the agricultural faculty of SOA Deemed to be University, has completed the first phase of its 2026–27 Farmers’ Training Programme under the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) initiative. This milestone reinforces the university’s commitment to empowering farmers, advancing sustainable agriculture, and providing students with experiential learning.
The week-long programme, conducted as part of the Village Attachment Programme (VAP) between July 22 and 29, covered 11 villages under three blocks of Bhubaneswar, Jatani and Balianta in Khordha district. The villages covered included Jhintisasan, Panikata, Chhatabar, Purohitpur, Mendhasal, Budhipada, Barudakhana, Purana Padhan, Kujimahal, Bhola and Singirisasan.
Sixteen targeted training modules helped local farmers adopt practical, low-cost, and climate-resilient agricultural technologies. Designed around specific regional farming systems, the programmes provided actionable scientific practices to improve crop productivity, reduce cultivation expenses, and increase farmer revenue. The programme covered advanced agricultural technologies, including Azolla and mushroom cultivation, integrated nutrient and pest management, organic inputs, neem-based pesticides, crop treatments, and enhanced composting.
Farmers learned allied enterprises like beekeeping and vermicomposting alongside eco-friendly pest management for paddy and cucurbits. Faculty members of the RAWE Committee coordinated the programme alongside village communities to ensure effective implementation. Enthusiastic participation from farmers, women, rural youth, and students drove the programme’s success. This active collaboration allowed farmers to discuss field challenges and receive tailored scientific recommendations. Prof Santosh Kumar Rout, Dean of IAS, highlighted the RAWE programme as a vital link between agricultural education and rural development.
By providing hands-on exposure to farming realities and community challenges, it prepares students to become competent agricultural and extension professionals. He reaffirmed that SOA’s faculty remains dedicated to delivering quality education and scientific knowledge that boosts farmers’ livelihoods and promotes sustainable development.
Dr Anshuman Jena, Chairman of the RAWE Programme, announced the successful completion of Phase-I training due to strong community and student participation. He emphasised that IAS strengthens farming through continuous extension, climate-smart technologies, and sustainable practices.