Hyderabad – A new farming initiative called “Scientists at the Farmers' Doorstep” is making waves across Telangana. Launched on May 5, this unique program connects farmers directly with agricultural experts to improve farming practices and tackle real-time challenges.
The campaign is a joint effort by Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTAU) and the Department of Agriculture. It kicked off in Dharur village, Vikarabad district, and has since expanded rapidly.
So far, the program has reached 600 villages. Nearly 37,000 farmers—including 31,000 men and 6,000 women—have taken part. During these sessions, scientists and agriculture students meet farmers face-to-face, providing practical advice and support.
Prominent leaders have shown strong support. Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar, Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao, and PJTAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Aldas Janaiah were present at the launch. Other key figures like MP Dr. Mallu Ravi, State Planning Commission Vice-Chairman Dr. G. Chinna Reddy, and 25 MLAs have also participated.
The program runs until June 13 and focuses on six main goals:
– Reducing urea use to lower farming costs
– Using chemicals carefully to protect soil health
– Keeping receipts for all farm input purchases
– Saving irrigation water through smart practices
– Rotating crops to ensure long-term income
– Planting trees to safeguard the environment
Farmers are encouraged to ask questions during the sessions. Experts answer their doubts and offer tailored advice based on local needs.
After three weeks, Dr. Janaiah reviewed the program’s progress. He shared that farmers are responding positively and appreciate the government’s efforts. However, he noted that many farmers are worried about climate change and unpredictable rainfall.
To tackle these challenges, farmers are urging the Telangana government to:
– Launch a crop insurance scheme to cover climate-related losses
– Provide modern tools and green manure seeds to small and marginal farmers at reduced prices
– Promote widespread soil testing for better crop planning
Dr. Janaiah called on farmers, women, students, teachers, and local groups to become active participants. He emphasized the importance of turning this initiative into a community movement that can bring lasting change to Telangana’s agriculture.
With growing interest and strong community involvement, the program is creating a meaningful impact—right at the farmers’ doorsteps.
