Practical and cost-effective ways to promote organic vegetable farming among the urban populace is the focus of the agricultural fair which got off to a start at Jubilee Hall here on Wednesday.
The fair showcases different products, technologies, and literature which will help people take up organic farming.
From Japanese methods of organic farming using effective microorganisms (EM) to the very traditional Indian ways, the event displays a range of new materials and innovative methods for a farm enthusiast.
V. Sidhique, an organiser, says EM can be used for a variety of purposes including agriculture, animal husbandry, aquaculture, mushroom farming, horticulture, floriculture, and waste management. Different compositions of EM solution, appropriate for various activities and fields, are available at the fair.
A stall by ‘Green Allies,’ a city-based group which deals in organic products, has on offer a scheme to set up a backyard vegetable garden urban households. The group will provide technical assistance and support. Under the moderately priced scheme, a household will get 11 varieties of vegetable plants in 25 earthen pots. It includes okra, tomato, green chilly, spinaches, bitter gourd, and pumpkin.
“We will set up the entire garden and provide services for an year,” says Shikanth Kaniyath of Green Allies.
The fair also has a variety of stalls displaying planting material, organic fertilisers, honey products, and certified organic produces from Indian and foreign companies.
District Collector C.A. Latha inaugurated the four-day fair organised by Green Veg, a city-based collective of organic farming enthusiasts.
It is aimed at giving a boost to organic farming initiatives in the region, the organisers say. We are planning to hold demonstrations and classes on different farming methods. The use of mini-poly houses and vertical farming methods will be covered, Mr. Sidhique says. Those interested may contact: 99479 91428
