Sensitisation Workshop for Sustainable Dillseed Cultivation Practices

13 Sep, 2023

The world is grappling with the consequences of a changing climate, and agriculture stands as one of the most vulnerable sectors. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the extensive use of agrochemicals, resulting in soil and water quality degradation, loss of biodiversity, and the quality of the food.

The challenges faced by the Dill Seed crop are no different. Climate change and water scarcity are posing significant threats to its cultivation. Moreover, the extensive use of pesticides contributes to increased pesticide residues within dill seeds, further exacerbating these concerns. The excessive use of pesticides and weedicides not only endangers biodiversity but also jeopardises the health of farmers residing in nearby areas.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, a sensitisation workshop on Sustainable Dillseed Cultivation practices was organised by the DPP GIZ-AVT McCormick and McCormick project. The event, held on September 13th, 2023, in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, saw the enthusiastic participation of approximately 35 dill seed farmers.

Mrs. Poonam Pandey, Senior Project Manager, Sustainability, McCormick, started the workshop with a detailed overview of the DPP project and introducing partners of the project including GIZ, AVT McCormick, and McCormick representatives.

Mr. Ashok Nair provided a detailed overview of the increasing demand for quality Dill seed in the global market, emphasising the significance of sustainability and adopting sustainable agriculture practices.

The workshop also featured a group discussion to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges encountered by celery farmers. Pradnya from GIZ presented informative videos on Integrated Pest and Disease Management as well as Integrated Nutrient Management, both developed under the project to address the challenges associated with cost-effective crop management.

Additionally, Mr. Sinish and Amit from AVT McCormick provided in-depth insights into post-harvest management techniques. They discussed the crucial aspects of sampling and testing of dill seeds to ensure quality and monitor pesticide residues. Proper post-harvest management and rigorous testing are vital steps in guaranteeing a safe and high-quality produce for consumers.

During the workshop, the farmers had the opportunity to discuss various practices related to Dillseed cultivation, Integrated Pest and Disease Management, Integrated Nutrient Management, and soil health improvement practices. These discussions enabled them to gain a holistic understanding of sustainable techniques and their potential benefits for their crops, the environment, and their own health.

Overall, the sensitisation workshop served as a platform for the farmers to learn about the challenges faced in Dill Seed cultivation, understand the importance of sustainable agriculture, and explore practical solutions to implement in their own farming practices.

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About the project

The ‘Enhancement of Smallholder Spice Farmer’s Capacities in Sustainable Farming’ aims to strengthen the production of cardamom, cumin, and turmeric in four states of India - Kerala Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Rajasthan - to increase the capacities of spice farmers to make production practices more economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable.

The project is part of the develoPPP.de Programme implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The lead executing agency for this project is AVT McCormick. develop.PPP was set up by BMZ to involve the private sector in areas where business opportunities and development policy initiatives overlap. Read More

For more information contact: biodiv.india@giz.de

 
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