• 8 Sep, 2024
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In late August 2024, the Regional Programme Coordinator (RPC) of the C-SUCSeS project embarked on a remarkable journey across India, aiming to bridge the gap between innovative climate-smart agriculture (CSA) technologies and the adoption of the technologies by smallholder farmers. The visit spanned three key locations: the Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA) in Hyderabad, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) headquarters in New Delhi, and two participatory research sites at Yagantipalle and Bathinda Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).

Successful CRIDA-led Implementation of the Project

The journey began at CRIDA in Hyderabad, where RPC met with the Director and National Focal Point (NFP) of the project. The meeting set the stage for the upcoming events of the project and field visits. The conversation focused on the progress of the C-SUCSeS project deliverables, including participatory research and case studies reports and policy briefs. The team discussed the innovative approaches developed to promote CSA technologies and the upcoming important events scheduled for November 2024. The need for localized CSA technologies and capacity-building efforts were highlighted as critical components for the project’s success.

Ground Realities at Yagantipalle KVK

The first field visit took RPC and NFP to Yagantipalle Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Andhra Pradesh. Here, they witnessed the practical application of CSA technologies in action. The farmers were engaged in intercropping systems, combining Redgram with Setaria Italica (foxtail millet), to enhance production and build resilience against the impacts of climate change. The team interacted with both scientists and farmers, discussing the progress and impact of the project. The farmers expressed their satisfaction with the support received and eagerly voiced their desire for larger-scale projects in the future.

Innovations at Bathinda KVK

Next on the itinerary was Bathinda Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Punjab. The team explored a range of CSA technologies being tested and adopted, including Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), foliar application of potassium nitrate for rice and wheat, and heat-tolerant wheat varieties. The highlight was the “C-SUCSeS Village” in the Deon community, where various CSA technologies had been implemented. Farmers shared their experiences, challenges, and the benefits of these innovations. The interaction underscored the transformative potential of CSA technologies in enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience.

Strategic Discussions at ICAR

The final leg of the journey took RPC and NFP to the ICAR headquarters in New Delhi, where a crucial meeting was held with the Deputy Director General (DDG) and Assistant Director General (ADG) of Natural Resource Management. The discussions centered on the progress of the participatory research and the views of farmers gathered during the field visits. The importance of CSA in mitigating the impacts of climate change in the SAARC region was emphasized. The DDG proposed a regional capacity-building program to further support agricultural professionals and farmers. The meeting concluded with the RPC presenting a plaque and mementos to acknowledge the support and guidance provided by ICAR throughout the project.

A Journey of Impact and Collaboration

This field visit was more than just a series of meetings and site inspections; it was a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The insights gained from the farmers, the progress made in CSA technologies, and the strategic discussions at the highest levels underscored the vital role of continued investment in climate-smart agriculture.

As the C-SUCSeS project moves toward its final phase, the experiences and outcomes of this journey highlight the importance of bridging knowledge and practice. It is through these efforts that we can build resilient agricultural systems and empower farming communities to thrive in the face of an ever-changing climate.