Transforming Dryland Horticulture: Impact of KVK, Vonipenta on Farmer Livelihoods in YSR Kadapa district of A.P. – Dr YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh

Significant information gap between horticultural research innovations and practical adoption by dryland farmers in YSR Kadapa district.
Persistent pest and disease outbreaks were causing severe crop losses, especially in turmeric, vegetables, chilli, banana and other horticultural crops.
Farmers faced high input costs, declining soil fertility, nutrient deficiencies and salinity issues under conventional chemical-based cultivation systems.
Monocropping and climate risks reduced income stability, creating a need for alternative livelihoods for farmers, youth, and farm women.
Limited value addition, weak market linkages, and a lack of post-harvest skills prevented farmers from earning better margins on their produce.

Farmers reduced cultivation costs and improved soil fertility by shifting from high-input chemical farming to sustainable horticulture practices.
Raised-bed turmeric cultivation reduced rhizome rot, with nearly 75% of farmers adopting the recommended technology.
Backyard kitchen gardens helped over 1,500 farm families reduce vegetable expenses and improve access to organically grown, nutritious food.
KVK Vonipenta expanded outreach through 62 training programmes, covering farmers, rural youth, farm women and extension functionaries.
Livelihood diversification through mushroom production, vermicomposting, backyard poultry and value addition strengthened household income and resilience.

SKOCH Award Nominee

For more information, please contact:
Madhavi M at registrar@drysrhu.edu.in

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