On Tuesday, September 30, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare said that over 58 lakh farmers have been trained in modern agricultural practices over the past three years via Farmer Training programs by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). The data, released by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), underscores the government’s efforts to place skill development at the centre of farm policy.
Around 58 lakh farmers participated in the training programs by KVKs
Moreover, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research runs Krishi Vigyan Kendras KVKs as district-level extension centres. Their job is to fill the gap between research and practice through on-farm demonstrations, vocational courses, and hands-on sessions. Around 58 lakh farmers participated in these training programs under the initiative within the time span of 2021 to 2024. Surprisingly, the numbers have increased each year- nearly 17 lakh in 2021-22 to more than 21 lakh in 2023-24. Notably, around 18.5 farmers have been trained in this financial year, up to 2025. The training programs comprise various areas such as crop management, soil health, animal husbandry, and mechanisation. Officials stated that the programmes are designed to suit local conditions so that farmers can apply scientific methods directly in their fields.
Emphasis on rural youth
The Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY) scheme has provided short, seven-day courses to rural youth and women farmers to prepare the next generation. The courses consist of practical skills in horticulture, dairy, fisheries, and allied areas. During the same three-year period, around 43,000 people received training under the STRY scheme, including over 21,000 in 2023–24. The programme has continued into 2024–25 as well, with thousands more already covered. Besides this, officials stated the effort has encouraged self-employment and created a skilled workforce in rural areas.