The Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station (RHRTS), Sharbo, and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kinnaur, under the aegis of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, recently organised a Strawberry Day celebration focused on promoting strawberry cultivation through natural farming practices in the hill region.
The programme drew enthusiastic participation from farmers of Kalpa, Pooh, and Nichar blocks, BRC members, and BSc. (Horticulture) students of the University’s College of Horticulture and Forestry (COHF), Neri, Hamirpur, currently pursuing their Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) programme.
The event served as a platform for knowledge sharing, highlighting the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly farming models in fragile Himalayan ecosystems. Experts emphasized how natural farming not only conserves the environment but also strengthens the economic resilience of smallholder farmers.
Associate Director and Head, KVK Kinnaur, Dr Pramod Sharma, underscored the need to move towards chemical-free agriculture. He noted that natural farming is a necessity in ecologically sensitive areas like Kinnaur and praised the efforts of over 50 local farmers already practicing it.
Training Coordinator Dr Deepika spoke on crop diversification through strawberries, underlining their role in climate resilience and value addition.
Dr BR Negi highlighted natural pest management strategies, advocating biological controls over chemicals, while Dr D.P. Bhandari guided participants on disease identification and natural approaches to disease resistance in strawberry cultivation. A field visit to the RHRTS research farm, led by Principal Farm Manager Jagjeevan Negi, gave farmers and students hands-on exposure to practical aspects of strawberry cultivation.
One of the key highlights was the Farmer-Scientist interaction session, where progressive woman farmer and natural farming practitioner Ganga Serni Bisht shared her inspiring journey. She recounted the challenges of shifting from conventional to natural farming and the benefits she reaped in terms of soil health, cost reduction, and crop resilience. Her story reflected grassroots innovation and encouraged fellow farmers to adopt sustainable practices.
Concluding the event, Dr Arun Negi expressed gratitude to the participating farmers and students, noting that the celebration marked an important step towards sustainable horticultural development in Kinnaur. He emphasised that beyond its potential as a profitable crop, strawberry cultivation exemplifies how natural farming models can safeguard the Himalayan environment while improving livelihoods.
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