news details |
|
|
| KVK promotes lemon grass farming in areas affected by monkey menace | | | Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 12: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Reasi, operating under the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Jammu (SKUAST-J), has undertaken an initiative to promote lemon grass farming in areas of Reasi district in Jammu & Kashmir that are severely affected by monkey menace. This effort is being carried out under the guidance of Hon'ble Vice Chancellor Prof. BN Tripathi and Director Extension Prof. SK Gupta of SKUAST-J.
The head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Reasi, Dr. Banarsi Lal, explained that some regions within Reasi district have been facing significant losses due to monkey-related issues, impacting farmers' income. To mitigate this challenge, the KVK is actively educating and guiding farmers on the cultivation of lemon grass. Lemongrass is particularly suitable for these areas and has great potential as a viable crop.
Dr. Banarsi Lal highlighted that lemongrass is resistant to monkey attacks, making it an attractive option for affected farmers. The KVK is providing technical support to farmers on scientifically cultivating lemon grass. This plant has various uses, including carminative and insect repellent properties, in addition to being utilized for perfumes, cosmetics, herbal teas, and non-alcoholic beverages. The oil extracted from lemon grass has a strong lemon-like fragrance due to its high citral content. Farmers can sell this oil to generate additional income and employment opportunities.
The cultivation of lemon grass allows for three harvests in the first year and 3-4 harvests in subsequent years, depending on the farmers' management practices. Dr. Banarsi Lal emphasized the importance of adopting a cluster-based approach to cultivation and encouraged farmers to engage in collective farming of lemon grass. He also highlighted the potential for value addition in lemon grass oil to increase income.
The success stories of existing lemon grass farmers have inspired new farmers to take up lemon grass cultivation, indicating a growing interest in this alternative crop. Through this initiative, KVK Reasi aims to mitigate the impact of monkey menace on farming in the region and provide farmers with a sustainable and profitable solution. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
