Poor promotion of DIY kits affects public response

Krishi Vikas Yojana

It is true that many people are taking interest in growing plants at home, what is called as terrace or rooftop cultivation. Be it a hobby or sentiment, there is a plant in every home framed carefully to add beauty to the environment.

The State Government’s initiative of ‘Do-it-Yourself’ (DIY) kit from the Horticulture department under the Krishi Vikas Yojana scheme is indeed a blessing to gardening enthusiasts. However, poor promotional activity and awareness on the kits has deprived the opportunity to reach out to the public.

In fact, there are many interesting youngsters who have formed into a group and are cultivating a few crops on terraces in the city. However, the initiative of government, which has potential of gaining roaring response from public, failed to make its mark.

Speaking to The Hans India, a department member said, “The regular community related to the agriculture and its allied activities are aware of the kit besides a few public. The major drawback is that the uncertain weather and climatic conditions that are discouraging public to take up the facility.

We give the kit for mere Rs 3,000, which is affordable. The sample kits of 50 were already taken and we are inviting public to come and register so that we may place adequate order. We are anticipating 300 kits in the month of October for which registrations are open.”

The kits, which are given at a 50 per cent subsidy on Rs 6,000, contain the elements that require starting gardening of vegetable plants at houses. A detailed guide book is part of the kit and imparts basic knowledge. It also has sealed polythene grow bags, water soluble fertiliser, bio fertilisers, bio pesticides, hand sprayer, coco peat, seed bags, soil mix, organic nutrients supply like neem cake, neem oil and some tools.