The ICAR–CPCRI, Kasaragod, as part of skill development programme organized a one-day training on vegetable cultivation for Scheduled Caste (SC) youths on 18 September 2026 at ICAR–CPCRI, Kasaragod. The programme was aimed at promoting home-based vegetable production, skill development and agriculture as a potential livelihood option among rural youth.

A total of 23 SC youths participated in the programme. Technical sessions covered the cultivation practices of important vegetables such as tomato, brinjal, okra, bitter gourd, chilli, bottle gourd, amaranthus etc. The participants were also trained on appropriate pest and disease management practices. The technical sessions were handled by Dr. Benzamin Mathew, Dr. Mahendran B. and Dr. Daliyamol.

Vegetable seed kits were distributed to all the participating trainees to facilitate immediate adoption of vegetable cultivation. The participants were motivated to produce safe, home-grown vegetables for family consumption while effectively utilizing the available open spaces around their houses. The programme also emphasized agriculture as a viable livelihood option for unemployed rural youths, with the potential to reduce migration and encourage youth participation in farming. Integrating vegetable cultivation with coconut-based farming systems can further enhance farm productivity, resource utilization and income opportunities.

These initiatives by the institute are expected to contribute towards developing a skilled young agricultural workforce, strengthening plantation-based farming systems and improving the livelihood opportunities for the communities.