ICAR and Andhra Pradesh Horticulture Department promote pollinator-friendly farming and biodiversity in Vijayawada
A two-day training-cum-awareness programme on natural farming and biodiversity was conducted at Atkur, Vijayawada, on August 18 and 19, 2026. The programme was organised by the Department of Horticulture, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Krishna District, in collaboration with the ICAR–Directorate of Floricultural Research (DFR), Pune.
🌾 Focus on improving horticultural productivity
The programme focused on “Productivity Improvement in Horticultural Crops through Pollinator and Biodiversity Flower Kits.”
Farmers practising natural farming were educated about the importance of pollinators, beneficial insects and flowering plants in horticultural fields. Officials explained that flowering resources can provide food and habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects while supporting natural pest regulation and ecological balance.
🐝 223 Pollinator Habitat Restoration Kits Distributed
One of the major highlights of the programme was the distribution of 223 Pollinator Habitat Restoration Kits to farmers practising natural farming.
The kits were provided to farmers growing different horticultural crops, including:
- 🥬 Vegetables
- 🍊 Fruit crops
- 🌴 Oil palm
- 🥥 Coconut
The kits are intended to help farmers establish flowering plants in and around their fields, creating habitats for pollinators and other beneficial organisms.
🌼 Field Visits and Farmer Interaction
The programme also included field visits to natural farming fields.
During these visits, scientists and officials interacted directly with farmers and examined existing biodiversity and habitat conditions. Discussions focused on how farmers could integrate flowering plants into their existing cropping systems without disrupting their natural-farming practices.
A plan was also initiated to systematically assess biodiversity in selected natural-farming areas. This will help understand how habitat-enhancement measures influence beneficial insect diversity and ecological functions.
👨🌾 Why this is important for Krishna District
Krishna district has a significant horticultural and agricultural base. Programmes such as this can help farmers explore biodiversity-based farming practices while reducing dependence on chemical pest-control methods.
By encouraging flowering plants and pollinator habitats, the programme aims to support a more ecologically balanced and sustainable farming system.