Agricultural Development in Central Travancore

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Radio FARMDI Project
P R E P A R E D B Y
P A U L V M A T H E W , P R O J E C T O F F I C E R , R A D I O M A C F A S T
Radio MACFAST 90.4 in association with NABARD
Submitted to
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

Radio FARMDI Project – NABARD
Radio MACFAST 90.4 Tiruvalla Page 2
Sl. No. Particulars Page No.
1. Executive Summary 5
2. Introduction 6
3. About Radio MACFAST 90.4 8
3.1. Radio Programmes 8
3.2. Radio MACFAST 90.4 – an effective Participatory Model 9
3.3. Model Initiatives of Radio MACFAST 10
3.3.1. Clean and Green Tiruvalla Project 10
3.3.2. Radio MACFAST School Clubs 11
3.3.3. RADIO MACFAST CHARITIES (RM Charities) 11
3.3.4. HRIDAYASPANDANAM (Heart Operation Program) 11
3.3.5. Participation from the Students 11
4. Agriculture – Backbone of Indian Economy 12
4.1. Agriculture in Central Travancore – Present Scenario 12
4.1.2. Agriculture – A comparative Analysis 16
5. Role of Community radio in Agricultural development 21
6. Radio MACFAST – a tool for Agricultural Development
in Kuttanad 23
7. Radio for Farmers Development and Innovation
(Radio FARMDI) Project 24
7.1. Objective of Radio FARMDI Project 24
7.2. Methodology 25
7.3. Implementation 36
7.3.1. Duration and Schedule 37
7.3.2. Other Activities 45
7.3.2.1. Awareness campaigns 45
7.3.2.2. Site visit 46
7.3.2.3. Krishivedi - New letter 47
7.3.2.4. Awards 47
7.4. Man Power 48
7.5. List of associated Experts 48
7.6. List of Agencies Associated 49
7.7. Finance 50
8. Conclusion 51
Reference 52

ACRONYMS
1
ALPZA
Alappuzha
2
CT
Central Travancore
3
FARMDI
Farmers Development and Innovation
4
FYM
Farmyard Manure
5
GDP
Gross Domestic Product
6
GSDP
Gross State Domestic Product
7
ICT
Information Communication and Technology
8
Ha
Hectare
9
IMBY
In My Backyard
10
KTM
Kottayam
11
MACFAST
Mar Athanasios College for Advanced Studies Tiruvalla
12
NIMBY
Not In My Backyard
13
PTA
Pathanamthitta
14
RM
Radio MACFSAT
15
CGC
Clean and Green City

List of Tables and Diagrams Tables Table 1: List of Radio Programs Table 2: Crops Cultivation in Pathanamthitta Table 3: Animal Population in Pathanamthitta Table 4: Crop cultivation in Pathanamthitta * (in Hectare) Table 5: Paddy Cultivation CT Region - (Agriculture Statistics 2009 -Department of Agriculture) Table 6: Crops Cultivation CT Region Table 7: Topics for Radio Program Table 8: Krishipadam Program Schedule Table 9: Detailed Production Chart of Krishipadam Program Table 10: Awareness Camps Table 11: Site Visits Table 12 – Project Awards Table 13: Man Power Requirement Table 14: List of Associated Experts Table 15: List of Associated Agencies Table 16: Project Finance Diagrams Diagram 1: Program distribution pattern of Radio MACFSAT 90.4 Diagram 2: Paddy Cultivation CT Region Diagram 3: Coconut Cultivation CT Region Diagram 4: Crops Cultivation CT Region Diagram 5: Area of Crops Cultivation CT Region Diagram 6: Total Fish Cultivation CT Region Diagram 7: Total Inland Production in CT Region Diagram 8: Medicinal Cultivation CT Region Diagram 9: Radio FARMDI Project Methodology

1. Executive Summary
Agriculture is the back bone of Indian Economy contributes to 13% of its GDP. About 43 % of India's geographical area is used for agricultural activity. Even though the contribution of agriculture sector in the GDP has declined alarmingly, it is still the single largest contributor to the GDP and plays a vital role in the overall socio-economic development of India. In order to cater to the needs of farming community, an intensive effort from all parts of the community is required. To disseminate agricultural information, technologies, government schemes and traditional knowledge directly to the farmers, a cost effective, reachable and reliable media is required. In this back ground, Community Radio has a vital role in propagating vital information for the farmers. Radio FARMDI Project is an initiative of Radio MACFAST 90.4, the second Community Radio in Kerala in association with NABARD to catalyze awareness programs and to enhance agricultural production in Central Travancore Region. Project comprises of awareness as well as action components put prime focus for the direct involvement of farmers through multitude of programs. Considering the agricultural background of Central Travancore, the project selected Paddy Cultivation, Animal Husbandry, Mixed Farming/Cultivation, Coconut Development, Ornamental/Edible Fish Farming and Herbal Farming are as the focus areas for intervention. Radio MACFSAT scheduled to broadcast a program ‘Krishipadam’ thrice in a week which creates a venue for farmers to debate, discuss and disseminate various matters on agriculture. Additionally, the project envisages for exhibitions, seminars and site visits related to various areas of discussion. The Project Radio FARMDI in association with NABARD has an immense opportunity to reach directly the farmers. As an impetus to the inclusive growth and second phase green revolution, Radio FARMDI Project will contribute lots for the enhancement of agriculture development in Central Travancore Region. By bridging the knowledge divide, it triggers a knowledge revolution in agriculture sector and develops a platform for farmers empowerment.

2. Introduction
Community Radio is a trusted source of information for the rural community. It is highly cost effective and accessible media for people especially the rural community. It has an active role in the development of different social indices through its myriad activities. To cater to the needs of people especially in the rural area, Community Radio can perform multitude of programs to enhance their knowledge, skill and awareness in different areas of interest. Now community radio has the power to address the voices of voiceless by empowering marginalized and neglected. It builds a platform for participatory approach and creates a win-win situation. It is community Radio that can disseminate local knowledge, traditions, arts & cultures, human rights and social justice, environmental issues and community problems as well as the issues related to development. It can enhance the social harmony among the communities. Thus the knowledge divide in society can build by interconnecting the community through radio. While encapsulating, community radio can play the role as promoter of participatory, accountable and transparent governance system in a society and it can also create enormous opportunities for growth and community development.
3. About Radio MACFAST 90.4
Radio MACFAST 90.4(Reg. No.PR0268) - a social service arm and community radio of MACFAST (Mar Athanasios College for Advanced Studies Tiruvalla) is the first on campus Community Radio in the State and 46th in the country which was launched on 1st November 2009. It believes that the emergence of a knowledge society is possible through focused work at the grass-root level. It realizes that transfer of knowledge happens in both directions - from the urban society to the rural one and vice versa. It ensures its extensive presence in the Central Travancore(CT) (parts of Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kollam, Idukki and Kottayam districts) as a catalyst by bridging the knowledge divide in people. It has almost five lakh listeners from different parts of these five districts. Now Radio MACFAST 90.4 is a trendsetter in community radio segment through its wide range of diverse and interesting programs, which airs 16 hours a day. It has a key position in the hearts of people by closely

serving the community by reflecting vital community issues and focusing specifically on their needs
True to its punch line — “Nattukarku Kuttai” (Community’s Companion) – it strives to achieve exactly the same: “a partner friend in all the endeavors of the local populace”. It is located within its founding philosophy – to give a voice to the voiceless. It acts as a centre for religious, social, cultural and national integration. It intends to work towards creating a civil society with a growing sense of community values, irrespective of caste, creed, age, gender or discrimination based on level of education. But at the same time, it also realizes that as community stations are the pulse of their community, so the community is its lifeblood, and it needs to be fully a part of it to allow the station to grow. RADIO MACFAST 90.4 now becomes the coordinating centre for uniting the knowledge from all sources of information and knowledge, thus facilitating positive transformation in the society through community development, reconstruction and national integration. The objectives of RADIO MACFAST are: Achieving social change and development objectives To empower communities to speak for themselves, to give a voice to the voiceless and to be force for social and economic good. To provide opportunity and exposure to groups that are traditionally marginalised by mainstream media, to broadcast their programmes. To establish community radio as an important part of community development and of the community and voluntary sector. To enhance the capacities of local people to work together to tackle a range of social problems, including poverty and exclusion through radio.

To nurture the creative talents of the community and to provide a forum for
a diversity of opinions and useful information.
3.1. Radio Programmes
Radio MACFAST 90.4 offers a multitude of programmes for the community which is informative, educative, motivating and entertaining. Around thirty nine (39) programmes are broadcasted through this radio which dedicates 5-6 hours for live telephonic programs. Utmost importance is given by Radio MACFAST in educating people along with entertainment. It telecasts special programs on days related to national, environmental and community importance. Additionally Radio MACFAST encourages people by conducting various seminars, exhibitions, shows and competitions. The program distribution pattern is shown below. It clearly shows that Radio MACFAST 90.4 aims for bridging knowledge gap in society.
Diagram 1: Program distribution pattern of Radio MACFSAT 90.4

List of important programmes is shown in the table below.
Sl. No
Name of the Program
About/Features 1 Sadvachanam (Inspiring Thoughts) Thought of the day
2
Morning Plus
Inspiring quotes 3 Greeting Cards Wishes (phoning)
4
Morning Show
Discussion on the topic of general interest to generate awareness (phoning) 5 Adukkala (Kitchen) Cooking techniques, cuisine making and unique dishes
6
Vithu Muthal Vilavu Vare (From sowing to harvest)
Agri-techniques, fertilizers, subsidies and climatic conditions (exclusively for farmers) 7 Chamayam (Make up & Costumes) Recent trends in fashion and designing
8
Clean and Green Tiruvalla
Environmental awareness (Discussion and phoning) 9 Sat Mate Game show Entertainment (phoning)
10
Hits
Song dedication (phoning) 11 Time Pass Talkies Entertainment (dialogues and stories)
12
Let’s talk English
English language training (spoken and grammar) 13 Paithrakam (Heritage) Kerala/ India heritage
14
Letters
Listeners’ letters response 15 Pusthakaparichayam(Book review) Introducing new books
16
Malayalam Shuddham Sundaram
Folk Tales and stories in Malayalam 17 Vijaya Manthram (Success Mantra) Motivational and inspiring stories
18
Vijayashilpi (Successful Leader)
Entrepreneurship development, experience of successful entrepreneurs 19 Niyamavum Ningalaum (Law and You) Law and rules
20
Kalikkalam (Game Show)
Entertainment program for senior citizens 21 Hridayatalam (Heart Rhythm) Heart specialist about heart health
22
Aksharavilakku (Literacy)
Poems, stories and tales 23 School Radio Club Programmes of school students of Radio clubs
23
Thozhilavasaram ( Employment Opportunities)
Job Opportunities 24 Ootty Villa Comedy programme
25
Arogyam (Health)
Health 26 Narmma Puranam Social Satire
27
Sthri Shakthi
Women empowerment

28 Kilukkaam Petti Entertainment exclusively for children (phoning)
29
Quiz Time
Quiz 30 Ulkkazcha (Insight) Discussion about current issues
31
Spell check
English spelling competitions and quiz
Table 1: List of Radio Programs
3.2. Radio MACFAST 90.4 – an effective Participatory Model
This unique initiative, which envisions bridging the knowledge gap, is looking forward to valuable contributions to make this a highly successful venture within a short span of time. People from all walks of life participate and contribute towards its efforts to bridge knowledge gap by: Production of programs Letting know people’s expectations Forwarding suggestions Voluntary work as reporter, script writer, promotion of radio literacy in a new place Contribute to the RADIO MACFAST Charities
3.3. Model Initiatives of Radio MACFAST
3.3.1. Clean and Green Tiruvalla Project
It is an initiative of Radio MACFAST 90.4 in association with Tiruvalla Municipality to achieve the aim - Clean and Green Tiruvalla. The concept put forward is NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) Syndrome to IMBY (In My Back Yard) habit i.e. waste management at the source itself which is an initiative to practice micro level decentralized waste management. The project gives utmost importance to schools and colleges (65 units) for awareness. Additionally, the project works in government offices and housing colonies to attain the target ‘zero waste centers’. In short, the project focuses on awareness and technical support to make a paradigm shift in the attitude of community towards waste management. Here, Radio MACFAST 90.4 acts as an effective tool for continuous awareness.

3.3.2. Radio MACFAST School Clubs
Radio MACFAST School club is one of the novel initiatives of this community radio. Almost 15 schools in and around Tiruvalla participate in this program. They have the opportunity to perform their programs on every Fridays and Saturdays.
3.3.3. RADIO MACFAST CHARITIES (RM Charities)
RM Charities finds the poor and the needy in the community who are financially deprived and provides financial and labor help towards building houses for the houseless and for treatment to the terminally ill.
3.3.4. Hrudayaspandanam (Heart Operation Program)
This heart operation program ‘Hruduyaspandanam’ is one of the Social Responsibility activities of Radio in association with Pushpagiri Medical College, Tiruvalla and different stake holders of Radio MACFAST 90.4. One operation costs around Rs. 50,000. It envisages offering 50 free heart operations for those who are in need. So far 8 persons were successfully treated under ‘Hruduyaspandanam’.
3.3.5. Participation from the Students
As part of Industry Interface initiative, students are participating with Radio MACFAST 90.4 programs. They can not only expose their talents but also get an exposure to explore the unlimited opportunities of community radio. Additionally, radio offers them fair remuneration to exercise the concept of a self sustainable campus. Students have the opportunity to work with radio from evening 5 PM– 10PM every day and on all holidays.

4. Agriculture – Backbone of Indian Economy
Agriculture is the livelihood of almost two thirds of the work force in the country and it accounts for 18% of India's GDP. About 43 % of India's geographical area is used for agricultural activity. Even though the contribution of agriculture sector in the GDP has declined alarmingly, it is still the single largest contributor to the GDP and plays a vital role in the overall socio- economic development of India. Green Revolution efforts helped to bringing additional area under cultivation, extension of irrigation facilities, the use of improved high-yielding variety of seeds, better techniques evolved through agricultural research, water management, and plant protection through judicious use of fertilizers, pesticides and cropping practices. Seed villages, food parks, food security bills, increased subsidies and loan weaving exercises etc. are some of the model initiatives in this aspect. Realizing the importance of agricultural production for economic development, the central government has played an active role in all aspects of agricultural development. Planning is centralized; plan priorities, policies, and resource allocations are decided at the central level. Food and price policy also are decided by the central government. However, there are still a host of issues that need to be addressed regarding Indian agriculture. Low agricultural productivity is the one of the greatest challenges facing Indian agriculture. If India is to evolve into a middle income country with a broad-based middle class, then rural reform, greater agricultural productivity, and sufficient employment growth in the manufacturing and services sectors are all necessary conditions. In order to ensure sustained growth in agriculture, it needs to enhance productivity, subsidy, financial aids and capacity building exercises for farmers. Research and development exercises, technology exchange and transformation, promoting investments in agriculture sector and catalyzing public private partnerships are required to augment the development of farmers as well as agriculture sector.
4.1. Agriculture in Central Travancore – Present Scenario
Kerala is land diverse with different varieties of crops, herbs and plants which make it an exuberant location. Charming paddy fields, lush green coconut, other cash crops like tea, rubber, coffee, pepper, cardamom, cashew, areca nut, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, cloves etc give agriculture of Kerala a diverse nature. Coconut trees also known as Kera tree suits the

title Kerala – the Land of Kera Tree. Additionally Kerala is the leading state in the production of rubber. More than 90 percent of the Rubber produced in India is from Kerala. Main cereal of Kerala is rice. Fruits like mango and jack fruit are predominant. Herbal plants in Kerala help to enhances Ayurvedic system of medicine that has taken deep roots in Kerala. Main spices are Pepper, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Ginger, nutmeg and Turmeric. Other type of agriculture related activities include aqua culture, Honey bee culture, Seri culture, Mushroom culture, poultry and cattle farming . The thing is not different with the people of Central Travancore. The major occupation of people in Central Travancore/Kuttanad region is paddy cultivation. Tapioca is other important crop cultivating in drier region mainly in upper Kuttanad area. Besides these, people cultivating important spices like cardamom, cinnamon, clove, turmeric, nutmeg and vanilla. Areca nut, ginger and coconut are the important varieties. Kottayam district has extensive areas producing and processing rubber. Apart from rubber, other plantation crop likes plantains or bananas are also grown in plenty. Among the districts of central Travancore, Pathanathitta has the lion part of listeners of Radio MACFAST. Hence special mentioning on this district is required. While considering the district Pathanamthitta, agriculture is the main occupation of the people. About 75 per cent of people are directly or indirectly involved in agriculture activities. Major are paddy, rubber, coconut, tuber crops, banana, pepper, ginger, vegetable etc. Cashew, pineapple, sugarcane, cocoa, tree spices etc. are also cultivated in certain regions. An analysis on different crops in Pathanamthitta is shown below.
Number
Crop
Area (in Hectares)
1
Paddy
a) Virippu
3505.20
b)Mundakan
4186.60
c) Punja
3735.00
2
Minor tubers
1401.69
3
Rubber
72101.81
4
Coconut
17822.30

5
Tapioca
6210.50
6
Pepper
4270.8
7
Ginger
1335.00
8
Cocoa
954.90
9
Vegetables
980.00
10
Pineapple
135.00
11
Banana
6663.5
12
Sugar Cane
275
13
Cardamom
664
14
Cashewnut
1188
15
Coconut
22056
Table 2: Crops Cultivation in Pathanamthitta (Source; Farm Guide 2000) Virippu, Mundakan and Punja are the major growing seasons of paddy. Certain crops like Coconut, tapioca, Rubber, Banana and pepper are predominant in this district. The district has a tremendous opportunity in fish farming due to the abundance of freshwater resources like rivers, reservoirs, streams, ponds, quarries and paddy fields. Pamba, Achankovil, Manimala and the Upper Kuttanadu areas post the district in a unique position in the inland fisheries map of Kerala. Additionally, edible as well as ornamental fish farming emerges as an opportunity. A program initiated by the district recently brought about 150 hectares under aqua culture. Through this programme, nearly 500 farmers are benefited and an incremented fish production of 125 tonnes is being recorded annually. The main species of livestock in the district are cow, buffalo, goat, sheep, pig, fowl and duck. The livestock population as per the census conducted in 1996 is as follows:-
Cows
3169108 Pigs 24548
Buffaloes
97654 Fowls 25661614
Sheep
2419 Ducks 1190548
Goats
1377590
Others
112262
Table 3: Animal Population in Pathanamthitta

Similarly, Agriculture forms the livelihood of the majority in the people in Kottayam district. Along with food crops and cash crops Paddy and Tapioca are cultivating. While rubber, coconut and pepper are the main cash crops, Annual crops like plantain and pine apple, seasonal crops like ginger, tubers, vegetables and a wide range of perennial crops like jack fruit, mango etc., are also grown. Paddy is the most important food crop. Rubber is the major cash crop - the largest area under rubber cultivation in the State and its production is going up gradually. Meenachil and Kanjirappally taluks top in rubber cultivation. A big Rubber centre, Kottayam has been chosen as the head quarters of the Indian Rubber Board. Coconut, another important cash crop has a total area of 28185 hectares under cultivation. Pepper, tea, coffee, ginger, areca nut, pulses, plantains, pine apple, sugarcane, cocoa etc., are also cultivated in the district.
Sl. No.
Crop
Area
1
Paddy
13617
2
Tubers
14
3
Vegetables
342
4
Coconut
165
5
Arecanut
21
6
Nutmeg
314
7
Condiments
123
8
Banana
76
9
Leaves
9
10
Cane
137
11
Others
704
12
Total
15522
Table 4: Crop cultivation in Pathanamthitta * (in Hectare)

Rice is the important agriculture product of Kuttand the gives the moniker “The Rice Bowl of Kerala". The history of the paddy cultivation in Kuttanad can be traced back to centuries. Kuttanad has for long been known as the Granary of Kerala. This major rice growing belt has more than 145,000 of wet lands under cultivation. Annually about two hundred thousand tones of paddy are produced in Kuttanad.around 2000 families in Kuttanad region depend on paddy cultivation.52 farmers union in this region working for the improvement of paddy cultivation. The majority of population of Alappuzha comprises, agricultural labourers and coir workers. 4.1.2. Agriculture – A comparative Analysis
Sl. No
District
Paddy Area (Ha.)
% to state Total
Gross cropped area
% of paddy area to Gross cropped area 1 Kollam 3453 1.48 161498 2.14
2
Pathanamthitta
2996
1.28
103539
2.89 3 Alappuzha 33440 14.29 105158 31.80
4
Kottayam
15474
6.61
205851
7.52 5 Idukki 2328 0.99 306681 0.76
Table 5: Paddy Cultivation CT Region - (Agriculture Statistics 2009 -Department of Agriculture)
Diagram 2: Paddy Cultivation CT Region

While comparing districts, Alappuzha is leading with an area of 33440 Ha which is 14.29% to the state total. At the same time Kottayam contributes 6.61% to the state total. By analyzing the percentage of paddy area to gross cropped area in district wise, it can be seen that Alappuzha district occupies 31.80% of paddy cultivation in 2009-10, where as Kottayam occupies 7.58%. Despite Pathanathitta devotes 2996 Ha for paddy cultivation. All these shows that focus on agriculture development and dissemination of this subject matter need special consideration. Diagram 3: Coconut Cultivation CT Region Coconut is an important crop cultivating in Central Travancore. Among the five districts Kollam has the highest production with 56675 Ha. Alappuzha and Kottayam has a notable area of cultivation. While considering other corps, it is apparent that all varieties are cultivating in certain regions of all districts. Following is the table showing the crop varieties and its cultivated area (Ha) in Central Travancore districts

Crop
Kollam
Pathanamthitta
Alappuzha
Kottayam
Idukki Areca nut 2122 1104 1711 1731 2753
Jack
6034
2431
2165
3319
10772 Banana 2068 2032 538 2839 2541
Plantain
4055
1490
1866
2631
3488 Pineapple 176 150 86 1286 1076
Cashew
2858
658
2110
404
1237 Nutmeg 70 463 210 1440 2054
Ginger
390
305
61
88
691 Turmeric 240 77 12 77 245
Drumstick
1930
563
633
656
504
Table 6: Crops Cultivation CT Region Diagram 4: Crops Cultivation CT Region While analyzing the diagram below, it is clear that Kottayam is leading the cultivation of rubber. Idukki is leading in the production of pepper, whereas Kollam has the highest cultivation of tapioca.

Diagram 5: Area of Crops Cultivation CT Region Fisheries a sub sector of primary sector contributes a substantial value added to the SDP. This sector has around 2.2% contribution towards the GSDP of the state. Fish is a major item in the food basket of 90% of the people of Kerala. This sector provides food with nutritional value and helps in employment generation. It is an important source of livelihood for a large section of people, especially economically backward class of the state. Inland fishing and fish culture are the major fishing activities of people in Central Travancore area. Following chart depicts the Production of fish from fish culture
Diagram 6: Total Fish Cultivation CT Region

While considering the production fish through fish culture, Kollam is leading with 502.65 Quintals. Production of Kottayam is 486.42 whereas production of Alappuzha is 468.42. Pathanathitta has a production of 353.45/year. Diagram 7: Total Inland Production in CT Region There are around 50 farmers in Pathanathitta engaged with fish cultivation. At the same time, there are 61 farmers in Aalappuzha whereas 71 in Kottayam. Total number farmers involved with fish cultivation in Kollam and Idukki is 54, 71 respectively.
Climate of Kerala is most suites for the growth of Medicinal and Aromatic plants due to its diverse climatic conditions.. Many foreigners are Visting Kerala for Ayurvedic treatment and make research on this system.But various limitations like absence of systematic collection, unorganized trade, manipulative and exploitive practices etc still emeges as a problem.The main medicinal plants grown in our state are Adalodakom, Asokam, Brahmi, Kattarvazha, Kurumthotti, Neem,Thulasi etc. Majority of the medicinal plants are naturally grown and some of them are commercially cultivated. Even though all these problem are existing, we have enormous opportunity of commercial cultivation of medicinal plants. Below diagram shows the area of medicinal plants cultivated in Central Travancore region.

Diagram 8: Medicinal Cultivation CT Region It shows that Idukki is in the forefront for the cutivation of medicnal plants with 5190.75 cents. Area of cutivation of medicinal plant in Kottayam is 2942.68 cents wheras in Kollam is 2781 cents. Above analysis shows that paddy and coconut are the major cultivated crop in this region. At the same time, it is clear that mixed crops have equal importance in the agricultural sector of central Travancore. Animal husbandry is the other area of consideration. Presence of abundant water resources opens the opportunity for fish farming. While considering the sustainable practices in agriculture sector, it is essential to promote organic farming and herbal farming.

5. Role of Community radio in Agricultural development
Agriculture is a highly knowledge-intensive sector requires continuous flow of information. Farmers urge for authentic, credible and usable information in traditional as well as established systems to operate more economically and efficiently. To cater to the needs of farmers and to empower the farming community, a coordinated effort and a well established system is required. To disseminate the information on sustainable agricultural practices, recent technologies and traditional knowledge community radio can play a lot. Effective awareness programs, knowledge sharing, education and communication services are the key strategies for sustaining agricultural growth and to tackle the issue of food shortage. In order to share, develop and spread knowledge, skills and attitudes Community Radio can play a key role. Community Radio can act as a powerful communication tool. It can create a platform for farmers to share their ideas and experiences, address their issues and needs. It has the power to raise the voice of those who are neglected by the main stream media. All India Radio (AIR) has been playing a significant role in agricultural development by broadcasting updated technological information on agriculture and other allied subjects to the farmers. Thus community radio works for social, environmental and economic development of people at grass root level through a participatory approach.

6. Radio MACFAST – a tool for Agricultural Development in Kuttanad
Albeit Radio MACFAST gives equal importance for the improvement of different social indices of local community, it also envisages to provide more attention to agricultural development in Kuttanad region. Farmers from different parts of Central Travancore participated in an agricultural seminar organized by Radio MACFAST. ‘Vithu Muthal Vilavu Vare’ – an agricultural development program broadcasts by Radio MACFAST receives overwhelming community response. It handles by different experts in agriculture field comprises of various topics like paddy cultivation, crop management, organic farming, waste management, vermi composting etc. Additionally, it broadcasts experience of farmers in different sectors. Above analysis proves that more focus is required in agriculture sector of Central Travancore. Radio MACFSAT can organize multitude of program in harness with farmers for the regional agriculture development. Additionally, Radio can act as a nodal point for farmers by sharing and disseminating knowledge. At the same time, financial constraints still bulge as hurdle for Radio to reach the farmers community more extensively. In order to spearhead its initiative for regional agricultural enhancement, it needs support from various agencies related to agricultural development. Radio MACFAST now put forward a novel project plan encompasses various awareness as well as action components. Hence Radio MACFAST can act as a role by broadcasting real voice of farming community.

7. Radio for Farmers Development and Innovation (Radio FARMDI) Project
Radio FARMDI Project is a concept put forward by Radio MACFAST for the development of farmers and the promotion of their innovations. Project comprises of awareness as well as action components. It intends to put prime focus on direct the involvement in farmers. Thrust areas of the project will be
1. Paddy Cultivation
2. Animal Husbandry
3. Mixed Farming/Cultivation
4. Coconut Development
5. Ornamental/Edible Fish Farming
6. Herbal Farming
Project consists of an on air programs on various topics by different experts and veterans in agriculture sector. Along with these, it plans to disseminate the information about successful, low-cost practices in sustainable agriculture, nutrition, health and community development. As part of the Radio FARMDI project, it will develop content/materials on different agricultural topics that respond to local needs. Additionally it will organize some outdoor events like seminar, exhibitions, awareness programs, field visits etc. as part of the capacity building exercises. This in turn, shares the information with around fifteen lakhs listeners in Central Travancore region.
7.1. Objective of Radio FARMDI Project Broadcast and organize constructive programs for farming community Develop a platform for the local farmers to unite and talk Promote local culture, traditions and respect voices and decisions of farmers thereby encouraging community self-reliance and control of local development. . Share, promote and promulgate innovations and knowledge of local farmers Develop collaborations between farmers and different agencies involved in agriculture
sector

Encourage practices, policies and technologies that promote sustainable and
equitable development. Promote the conservation of natural resources and bio-diversity for the benefit of all. Provide awareness and training in different areas of agriculture Provide capacity building programs for farming community Introduce new technologies and provide improved education to farmers Introduce new schemes, polices, subsidies and financial aids Encourage, recognize and award best farmers in different agricultural sectors.
7.2. Methodology
Radio FARMDI Project consists of two components. Viz. Awareness and Action. Awareness components focus on improving the knowledge and skill of farmers and action components looks for production enhancement. Action component consist of various activities like the development of herbal farms, organic farms, vegetable cultivation etc. Radio will be used as a prime tool for awareness. At the same time equal priority will be given for outdoor events. Radio FARMDI Project encourages participatory approach through the involvement of farmers, agricultural experts and various agricultural agencies. Prime concentration will be to motivate farm communities to help themselves. Farmers will share their experiences through radio or using scripts. Along with this, programs on different topics will be broadcasted through Radio which will be dealt by experts. Radio itself will identify best farmers/practices and same will share through Radio Program. Radio FARMDI Project aims for active participation of farming community in Central Travancore region. It put forward the notion of participatory approach to ensure its extent of reach and to make it ubiquitous in this region. Radio can act as the voice of farmers through broadcasting myriad of programs of farmers, agriculture related agencies, stake holders and radio programmers. This Radio network will facilitate an exchange of information that aimed to enhance production and promote ecologically sound and environmental sustainable practices.

Diagram 9: Radio FARMDI Project Methodology
Sl. No.
Topic
Components I Agriculture – An overview
1
Role of Agriculture
2 Soils And Soil Classification Soil health and Agricultural soils What is soil health? Soil Composition and Formation Classifying Soil Groups and Soil Landscapes Soil Profiles Soil Horizons Key Properties of Selected Soil Groups Parent Materials Classifying Soils According to Hydrological Properties
3
Properties of Soils and Plant Nutrition

4 Soil Testing Methods
5
Land Degradation and Other Soil Problems Soil Structure Decline Water Repellence Erosion Hard-Layers in Soils Transient Bonding; Compaction; Cementation; and Natural Rigidity Sub-Soil Compaction: Compression, shearing and smearing Soil Acidification Alkalinity and Sodicity Water-logging Salinity Chemical Residues 6 Soil Management on Farms Conservation Farming No-Tillage (Zero tillage) Minimum Tillage Trap Cropping Cover Crops and Green Manure Cropping Alley Farming (AF) Contour Farming and Strip Farming Controlled Traffic Farming Stubble Management Establishing Water and Nutrient Management Plans Soil Conservation Earthworks Integrated Pest Management Direct Drilling in Pasture Establishment Soil Management in Orchards Soil Management in Market Gardens
7
Sustainable ways of farming Whole farm planning Land Management programs Natural farming Organic farming Permaculture No Dig techniques Biodynamics

8 Water 1. Types of water storage Livestock water requirements Water problems Water quality Reed beds Water saving measures Irrigation systems
9
Land Care Weed Management Preventative measures Tree management Timber lots/plantations Wind breaks Pest and diseases II Paddy Cultivation
1
Land preparation Time for land preparation Depth of plough/hoe Puddling Levelling 2 Seed selection and treatment Suitable varieties of paddy Seed rate per hectare Time of sowing Seed treatment
3
Nursery raising Methods of making nursery seed bed Days required for keeping seedlings in nursery before transplanting 4 Transplanting Age of the seedlings for transplanting Spacing for transplanting Depth of planting seedlings Number of seedlings per hill
5
Water management Level of water at the time of transplanting Irrigation at critical stages Drainage to prevent water logging
6 Manures & fertilizers Application of FYM and their quantity Knowledge of chemical fertilizers Doses of chemical fertilizers Methods of fertilizer’s application Time of fertilizer’s application Knowledge of Bio-fertilizers and their doses of application Methods of Bio-fertilizers application

7
Plant protection measures Identification of diseases and their control measures Identification of pests and their control measures Proper handlingtechniques of sprayer/other plant protection equipments Identification of beneficial bio-agents to control pests Time for using Tricho cards to control stem borers 8 Intercultural operations Identification of Weedicides Doses of Weedicides Appropriate time for application of Weedicides Biological weed control
9
Improved farm implements Making of animal drawn plough Identification of paddy threshers for efficient work Repair and maintenance of farm tools and implements
10 Loan Financing agencies and types of loan available for farming community Exposure about procedures for availing loan with terms and condition for repayment
11
Harvesting Optimum time of harvesting Economic and efficient method of threshing
12 Post harvest measures Drying of harvested paddy Storage of harvested paddy Storage of seeds
III
Animal Husbandry 1 Dairy development
Dairy Breeds Dairy Products
The Lactation Cycle Pests & Diseases of Dairy Cattle
Causes and Diagnosis of Disease Feeding Dairy Cattle
Managing Dairy Cattle Breeding Dairy Cattle
Managing Dairy Facilities Dairy Business Planning
Calving and Culling Calving Management
Calf Health Management

Calf Rearing Systems
Calf Housing Weaning
Vaccination Schemes
2
Pig Farming 1 Introduction Background to pig raising Pig Farming Hybrids in pig farming Pig breeds Pig Production systems Building systems Environmental controls Building materials Floors Pig pens Waterers and feeders Fencing Waste water treatment using reed beds Water flow Anaerobic ponds Suitable plants
2
Breeding and selection Heritability in pigs Testing pig performance Points for selection Pure breeding Cross breeding Crossbreeding systems Single cross Back crossing Rotational crossing Hybrid breeding Artificial insemination Animal selection 3 Feeding Pigs Types of rations Energy requirements Protein requirements Mineral requirements Vitamin requirements Digestive system Understanding feeding Feeding on pasture

4
Pig diseases General health problems Management practices Notifiable pig diseases Some major diseases affecting all pigs Diseases affecting sows Diseases of growing and fattening pigs Handling and restraining pigs Vices in pigs Summary of pig diseases Pre-weaning period Post-weaning period Breeder pigs 5 Managing the boar Selecting a boar Housing Feeding Health Breeding
6
Managing the sow and litter Selection of gilts Housing Feeding Weaning Ovulation During pregnancy Before farrowing Farrowing Lactation After farrowing Management of the suckling pig Marking Pigs and Ear Notching Points to consider at weaning 3 Poultry Farming

1
Introduction Small Scale Production Breeds Classifying Fowls (Egg Laying Breeds, Meat or Table Birds, Dual Purpose Breeds) Cross Breed Poultry Sex Linkage Brooders Skeletal System Poultry Husbandry (Stock Selection, Feeding, Watering, Housing, Health) Turkeys Geese Ducks 2 Poultry Nutrition Digestive System Nutrient Sources Rationing Palatability The End Product Modern Feed Requirements Phase Feeding Limited Feeding Consumption Feeding
3
Diseases Avoiding Stress Viral diseases Bacterial diseases Mycoplasmosis, fungal and protozoan disease Non-infectious diseases 4 Layers Extensive (free-range) System Semi-Intensive System Intensive Systems Housing Deep Litter System Feeders Battery Units Feeding the Laying Hen Replacing the Flock
5
Broilers Caponising Brooding Period Feeding Broilers (Starter Period, Finisher Period) Housing Hygeine and Health

6 Incubation The natural method (using broody hens) The artificial method (using incubators) Selecting Eggs Storing Hatching Eggs Turning Eggs Managing a Incubator Reasons for Poor Hatchability
7
Brooding Heating The canopy brooder The infra-red lamp The battery brooder The haybox brooder Feeders Drinkers Floor Space Rearing Problems during rearing 8 Record Keeping, economics and Marketing Growth Records Egg Production records Small Scale Business Compatible Ventures (Manure, etc) Preparing a Farm Business plan Finance Land Management Analyzing the Market place Developing a Marketing Plan
IV
Fish Farming
1 Introduction To Aquaculture Scope and nature of freshwater aquaculture Equipment and material suppliers
2
Production Systems - EP and IP Open, semi closed and closed systems Extensive production Intensive production Water containment ... earth, concrete,wood, brick, stone, fibre-glass, liners, etc Water Storage, siting, site

3 What Species To Farm Selection criteria Climate Water resources Finance Scale of operation Other resources (manpower, knowledge, support services, etc.) Market demand and access Ecological considerations Risk Considerations Review of different fish
4
Setting Up A Fish Farm Land and water Water requirements Extensive production farms Intensive production pools and raceways Cages Biological filtration systems Filter efficiency Clearing turbid water in farms Protecting fish Improving genetic quality of fish Economics of establishing and running an aquaculture farm Financial Management Financial Institutions Better planning Economics What to Plan for Production and Marketing 5 Fish Foods & Feeding Scope and nature Pelleted feed Live feed Earthworm and Compost production
6
Harvesting Introduction Harvesting techniques Fish pumps Mechanical graders Fish health management Review of diseases 7 Aquarium
8
Ornamental fishes
V Coconut Development

Introduction Climate and Soil Varieties Planting Material Site Selection Preparation of Land & Planting Spacing & Systems of Planting Time of Planting Planting 10. Care of young Palms Manuring Irrigation Inter-cultivation Husk Burial Green Manure and Cover Crops Mixed/Inter/Multi-species cropping Mixed farming Pests and diseases Plant protection Hybrid varities Coconut oil and cholesterol Coconut intercroppings Coconut based products Import of coconut products Coconut mite Coconut wood Tender coconut water – benefits Coir Value added products Marketing strategies Coconut development board Schemes Technologies Coconut climbing techniques Coconut harvesting operations and crown cleaning aspects Spraying and pest control operation Pollination and hybridization techniques Plant protection measures Identification of tender nut, mature coconut and seed nut Developing Leadership quality and communication skills Entrepreneurship development skills Thrift/ Savings management

VI Mixed Farming
Mixed Farming – Advantage And Benefits Field Preparation Varieties And Significance Pineapple Banana Vegetable Cultivation Elephant-Foot Yam Groundnut Chillies Sweet Potato Tapioca Cocoa Cinnamon Pepper Clove Nutmeg Fodder Crops VII Herbal Farming Herbs Farming Introduction Cultivation Site and Soil Conditions Sowing Herb See Vegetative Propagation Types of herbs Culinary Herbs Aromatic Herbs Ornamental Herbs Medicinal Herbs Herbs for Beginning Gardeners Ornamental use of herbs on the land scape
Table 7: Topics for Radio Program
7.3. Implementation
Radio will be the prime method of communication. As mentioned earlier, radio will be the tool for continuous awareness. At the same time the project will get more momentum by organizing certain outside events. Radio FARMDI Project proposes a new program called ‘Krishipadam’ exclusively for agricultural development.

Krishipadadam will be broadcasted thrice in a week. Total time devoted for this program is three hour. It includes one hour live/telephonic program and one hour recorded program. Recorded program will be broadcasted twice in a week and one program has duration of 30min.
Sl. No.
Program
Category
Time Schedule 1 Krishipadam Live Sunday 7.00 P.M to 8.00 P.M
2
Krishipadam
Recorded
Wednesday 7.00 P.M to 7.30 P.M 3 Krishipadam Recorded Friday 7.00 P.M to 7.30 P.M
Table 8: Krishipadam Program Schedule
7.3.1. Duration and Schedule
The programs will be started from March 4th. Proposed period for the program is 2 years. Schedule of the program is shown below.
Sl. No.
Time Schedule
Topic 1 March 4 Sunday Introductory Program
2
March 7 Wednesday
Introduction and role of agriculture 3 March 9 Friday Introduction and role of agriculture
4
March 4 Sunday
Soil Management 5 March 7 Wednesday Soil health
6
March 9 Friday
Soil health 7 March 11 Sunday Soil Protection
8
March 14 Wednesday
Soil Erosion 9 March 16 Friday Soil Erosion
10
March 18 Sunday
Soil testing 11 March 21 Wednesday Properties of Soils and Plant Nutrition
12
March 23 Friday
Properties of Soils and Plant Nutrition 13 March 25 Sunday Organic farming
14
March 28 Wednesday
Soil testing methods 15 March 30 Friday Soil testing methods
16
April 1 Sunday
Mushroom Cultivation 17 April 4 Wednesday Land Degradation and Other Soil Problems
18
April 6 Friday
Land Degradation and Other Soil Problems 19 April 8 Sunday Organic farming – Experience sharing by Farmer
20
April 11 Wednesday
Soil Management on Farms 21 April 13 Friday Soil Management on Farms
22
April 15 Sunday
Organic farming Experience sharing by Farmer

23 April 18 Wednesday Sustainable ways of farming
24
April 20 Friday
Sustainable ways of farming 25 April 22 Sunday Honey Cultivation
26
April 25 Wednesday
Paddy cultivation 27 April 27 Friday Paddy cultivation
28
April 29 Sunday
Paddy cultivation – Discussion and folklores 29 May 2 Wednesday Land preparation
30
May 4 Friday
Land preparation 31 May 6 Sunday Paddy cultivation – Discussion and folklores
32
May 9 Wednesday
Seed selection and treatment 33 May 11 Friday Seed selection and treatment
34
May 13 Sunday
Paddy cultivation – Seeds - Discussion – farmers 35 May 16 Wednesday Nursery raising and transplanting
36
May 18 Friday
Nursery raising and transplanting 37 May 20 Sunday Paddy cultivation – Land Preparation - Discussion – farmers
38
May 23 Wednesday
Water management 39 May 25 Friday Water management
40
May 27 Sunday
Paddy cultivation/Manuaring – Discussion – farmers 41 May 30 Wednesday Manures & fertilizers
42
June 1 Friday
Manures & fertilizers 43 June 3 Sunday Paddy cultivation – Discussion – farmers and folklores
44
June 6 Wednesday
Plant protection measures 45 June 8 Friday Plant protection measures
46
June 10 Sunday
Paddy cultivation/Plant protection – Discussion – farmers 47 June 13 Wednesday Intercultural operations
48
June 15 Friday
Intercultural operations 49 June 17 Sunday Paddy cultivation – Discussion – farmers and folklores
50
June 20 Wednesday
Improved farm implements 51 June 22 Friday Improved farm implements
52
June 24 Sunday
Paddy cultivation – best practices by farmer 53 June 27 Wednesday Loan
54
June 29 Friday
Loan 55 July 1 Sunday Paddy cultivation – Discussion – farmers and folklores
56
July 4 Wednesday
Harvesting 57 July 6 Friday Harvesting
58
July 8 Sunday
Paddy cultivation – Discussion – farmers 59 July 11 Wednesday Post harvest measures
60
July 13 Friday
Post harvest measures 61 July 15 Sunday Paddy cultivation – Discussion – Expert and Farmer

62
July 18 Wednesday
Dairy development 63 July 20 Friday Dairy development
64
July 22 Sunday
Discussion on cattle management 65 July 25 Wednesday Dairy Breeds
66
July 27 Friday
Dairy Breeds 67 July 29 Sunday Breeds
68
August 1 Wednesday
Dairy Products 69 August 3 Friday Dairy Products
70
August 5 Sunday
Lactation 71 August 7 Wednesday The Lactation Cycle
72
August 10 Friday
The Lactation Cycle 73 August 12 Sunday Discussion on diseases
74
August 14 Wednesday
Pests & Diseases of Dairy Cattle and Diagnosis 75 August 17 Friday Pests & Diseases of Dairy Cattle and Diagnosis
76
August 19 Sunday
Discussion on diseases 77 August 22 Wednesday Feeding Dairy Cattle
78
August 24 Friday
Feeding Dairy Cattle 79 August 26 Sunday Farmers experience
80
August 29 Wednesday
Managing Dairy Cattle 81 August 31 Friday Managing Dairy Cattle
82
September 2 Sunday
Farmers experience 83 September 5 Wednesday Breeding Dairy Cattle
84
September 7 Friday
Breeding Dairy Cattle 85 September 9 Sunday High breeds
86
September 12 Wednesday
Managing Dairy Facilities 87 September 14 Friday Managing Dairy Facilities
88
September 16 Sunday
Calf Housing 89 September 19 Wednesday Dairy Business Planning
90
September 21 Friday
Dairy Business Planning 91 September 23 Sunday Calf Management
92
Calving and Culling 93 September 28 Friday Calving and Culling
94
September 30 Sunday
Vaccination 95 October 3 Wednesday Calving Management
96
October 5 Friday
Calf Health Management 97 October 7 Sunday Expert talk
98
October 10 Wednesday
Calf Rearing Systems 99 October 12 Friday Calf Rearing Systems
100
October 14 Sunday
Expert talk and discussion 101 October 17 Wednesday Calf Housing
102
October 19 Friday
Calf Housing

103 October 21 Sunday Farmers experience
104
Weaning 105 October 26 Friday Weaning
106
October 28 Sunday
Success story sharing by farmer 107 October 31 Wednesday Vaccination
108
November 2 Friday
Vaccination 109 November 4 Sunday Expert discussion
110
November 7 Wednesday
Schemes 111 November 9 Friday Schemes
112
November 11 Sunday
General discussion 113 November 14 Wednesday Pig farming - Introduction
114
November 16 Friday
Pig farming - Introduction 115 November 18 Sunday General discussion
116
Breeding and selection 117 November 23 Friday Breeding and selection
118
November 25 Sunday
General discussion 119 November 28 Wednesday Feeding Pigs
120
November 3o Friday
Feeding Pigs 121 December 2 Sunday Pig diseases and prevention
122
December 5 Wednesday
Pig diseases 123 December 7 Friday Pig diseases
124
December 9 Sunday
Opportunities and scopes 125 December 12 Wednesday Managing the boar
126
December 14 Friday
Managing the boar 127 December 16 Sunday Farmers experience
128
Managing the sow and litter 129 December 21 Friday Managing the sow and litter
130
December 23 Sunday
Success story 131 December 26 Wednesday Poultry Farming – Introduction
132
December 28 Friday
Poultry Farming – Introduction 133 December 30 Sunday Poultry farming general discussion
134
January 2 Wednesday
Poultry Nutrition 135 January 4 Friday Poultry Nutrition
136
January 6 Sunday
Diseases and prevention – discussion 137 January 9 Wednesday Diseases
138
January 11 Friday
Diseases 139 January 13 Sunday Diseases and prevention – discussion
140
January 16 Wednesday
Layers 141 January 18 Friday Layers
142
January 20 Sunday
Farmers experience 143 January 23 Wednesday Broilers

144
January 25 Friday
Broilers 145 January 27 Sunday Farmers experience sharing
146
Incubation 147 February 1 Friday Incubation
148
February 3 Sunday
Doubts and clarification 149 February 6 Wednesday Brooding
150
February 8 Friday
Brooding 151 February 10 Sunday General discussion
152
February 13 Wednesday
Record Keeping, economics and Marketing 153 February 15 Friday Record Keeping, economics and Marketing
154
February 17 Sunday
Expert interview 155 February 20 Wednesday Fish Farming
156
February 22 Friday
Fish Farming 157 February 24 Sunday General introduction
158
Introduction to Aquaculture 159 March 1 Friday Introduction to Aquaculture
160
March 3 Sunday
Aquaculture 161 March 6 Wednesday What Species To Farm
162
March 8 Friday
What Species To Farm 163 March 10 Sunday Fish farm development
164
March 13 Wednesday
Setting Up A Fish Farm 165 March 15 Friday Setting Up A Fish Farm
166
March 17 Sunday
Fish varieties 167 March 20 Wednesday Fish Foods & Feeding
168
March 22 Friday
Fish Foods & Feeding 169 March 24 Sunday Farm management
170
March 27 Wednesday
Harvesting 171 March 29 Friday Harvesting
172
March 31 Sunday
Expert interview 173 April 3 Wednesday Aquarium
174
April 5 Friday
Aquarium 175 April 7 Sunday Farmers experience
176
April 10 Wednesday
Ornamental fishes 177 April 12 Friday Ornamental fishes
178
April 14 Sunday
Ornamental fishes 179 April 17 Wednesday Coconut Development
180
April 19 Friday
Coconut Development 181 April 21 Sunday General introduction
182
April 24 Wednesday
Introduction 183 April 26 Friday Introduction
184
April 28 Sunday
Farmers story

185 May 1 Wednesday Climate and Soil
186
May 3 Friday
Climate and Soil 187 May 5 Sunday Verities and features – discussion
188
May 8 Wednesday
Varieties 189 May 10 Friday Varieties
190
May 12 Sunday
Expert discussion 191 May 15 Wednesday Site Selection
192
May 17 Friday
Site Selection 193 May 19 Sunday Farmers talk
194
May 22 Wednesday
Preparation of Land & Planting 195 May 24 Friday Preparation of Land & Planting
196
May 26 Sunday
Manuring 197 May 29 Wednesday Care of young Palms
198
May 31 Friday
Care of young Palms 199 June 2 Sunday Caring of palms
200
June 5 Wednesday
Manuring 201 June 7 Friday Manuring
202
June 9 Sunday
Pests and diseases 203 June 12 Wednesday Irrigation
204
June 14 Friday
Irrigation 205 June 16 Sunday Pests and diseases – diagnosis
206
June 19 Wednesday
Inter-cultivation 207 June 21 Friday Inter-cultivation
208
June 23 Sunday
Plant protection 209 June 26 Wednesday Pests and diseases
210
June 28 Friday
Pests and diseases 211 June 30 Sunday Farmers experience
212
July 3 Wednesday
Plant protection 213 July 5 Friday Plant protection
214
July 7 Sunday
Best stories 215 July 10 Wednesday Hybrid varieties
216
July 12 Friday
Hybrid varieties 217 July 14 Sunday Coconut oil
218
July 17 Wednesday
Coconut oil and cholesterol 219 July 19 Friday Coconut oil and cholesterol
220
July 21 Sunday
Tender coconut 221 July 24 Wednesday Coconut intercropping
222
July 26 Friday
Coconut intercropping 223 July 28 Sunday Virgin coconut oil
224
July 31 Wednesday
Coconut based products 225 August 2 Friday Coconut based products

226
August 4 Sunday
Value added products 227 August 7 Wednesday Coconut wood
228
August 9 Friday
Coconut wood 229 August 11 Sunday Schemes and possibilities
230
August 14 Wednesday
Tender coconut water – benefits 231 August 16 Friday Tender coconut water – benefits
232
August 18 Sunday
Farmers feed back 233 August 21 Wednesday Coir
234
August 23 Friday
Coir 235 August 25 Sunday Farmers experience
236
August 28 Wednesday
Value added products 237 August 30 Friday Value added products
238
September 1 Sunday
Technologies 239 September 4 Wednesday Marketing strategies
240
September 6 Friday
Marketing strategies 241 September 8 Sunday Expert talk
242
Coconut development board 143 September 13 Friday Coconut development board
144
September 15 Sunday
Farmers experience 145 September 18 Wednesday Schemes
146
September 20 Friday
Schemes 147 September 22 Sunday Best practices
148
Technologies 149 September 27 Friday Technologies
250
September 29 Sunday
Best practices 251 October 2 Wednesday Identification of tender nut, mature coconut and seed nut
252
October 4 Friday
Identification of tender nut, mature coconut and seed nut 253 October 6 Sunday Value added products
254
October 9 Wednesday
Entrepreneurship development skills 255 October 11 Friday Entrepreneurship development skills
256
October 13 Sunday
General discussion 257 October 16 Wednesday Mixed Farming – Advantage And Benefits
258
October 18 Friday
Mixed Farming – Advantage And Benefits 259 October 20 Sunday Farmers experience
260
Field Preparation 261 October 25 Friday Field Preparation
262
October 27 Sunday
Farmers experience 263 October 30 Wednesday Varieties And Significance of Pineapple
264
November 1 Friday
Varieties And Significance of Pineapple

265 November 3 Sunday General discussion
266
Banana 267 November 8 Friday Banana
268
November 10 Sunday
Best stories 269 November 13 Wednesday Vegetable cultivation
270
November 15 Friday
Vegetable cultivation 271 November 17 Sunday Vegetable cultivation
272
Elephant foot yam 273 November 22 Friday Elephant foot yam
274
November 24 Sunday
Vegetable cultivation 275 November 27 Wednesday Groundnut
276
November 29 Friday
Groundnut 277 December 1 Sunday Banana
278
Chillies 279 December 6 Friday Chillies
280
December 8 Sunday
Organic farming 281 December 11 Wednesday Sweet potato
282
December 13 Friday
Sweet potato 283 December 15 Sunday Tapioca
284
Tapioca 285 December 20 Friday Tapioca
286
December 22 Sunday
Farmers discussion 287 December 25 Wednesday Cocoa
288
December 27 Friday
Cocoa 289 December 29 Sunday Farmers experience sharing
290
January 1 Wednesday
Cinnamon 291 January 3 Friday Cinnamon
292
January 5 Sunday
Pepper 293 January 8 Wednesday Pepper
294
January 10 Friday
Pepper 295 January 12 Sunday Expert talk
296
Clove 297 January 17 Friday Clove
298
January 19 Sunday
General discussion – mixed farming 299 January 22 Wednesday Nutmeg
300
January 24 Friday
Nutmeg 301 January 26 Sunday Indigenous varieties
302
Ginger and Turmeric 303 January 31 Friday Ginger and Turmeric
304
February 2 Sunday
Expert talk 305 February 5 Wednesday Herbal farming

306
February 7 Friday
Herbal farming 307 February 9 Sunday Relevance of herbal farming
308
Ornamental Herbs 309 February 14 Friday Ornamental Herbs
310
February 16 Sunday
Ornamental farming experiences 311 February 19 Wednesday Medicinal herbs
312
February 21 Friday
Medicinal herbs 313 February 23 Sunday Medicinal herbs cultivation – opportunities
314
Conclusion 315 February 28 Friday Conclusion 316 March 2 Sunday Conclusion
Table 9: Detailed Production Chart of Krishipadam Program
7.3.2. Other Activities
All the programs will give utmost importance for farmers benefit as well as farmers participation. To make the program rich in content, we gather and research information about successful, low-cost practices in sustainable agriculture, and others engaged in agriculture development. Scripts from farmers will be invited through radio and the same will be broadcasted. To enthuse farmers Radio will provide equal priority for awareness campaigns, local sensitization programs, exhibitions, publication of materials and field trips.
7.3.2.1. Awareness campaigns
Awareness is a key component to disseminate recent trends/technologies/development/schemes in agriculture sector. In order to cater to the needs of farming community, intensive awareness programs and sensitization projects are required. These initiatives will provide venue for farmers to update themselves and get to know about scientific practices in agriculture. It will catalyze the process of educating farmers and will promote sustainable practices in agriculture sector.
In order to ensure the extent of reach of Radio FARMDI Project, Radio MACFAST will organize different seminars, exhibitions and awareness classes in regular intervals. It will develop a platform for farmers to discuss, share and learn different practices in agriculture sector.

These seminars will cover myriad topics related to agriculture that will be dealt by different experts in Government departments and farming community. Farmers can clarify doubts and can seek assistance from experts.
Sl.No.
Topic
Number of Days
Date
Expected Number Farmers 1 Agriculture seminar and Project Inauguration 1 March 4. 2012 200
2
Paddy cultivation
1
July 11, 2012
50 3 Dairy Development 2 December 26, 2012 35
4
Organic Farming and Manure Preparation
1
January 10, 2013
50 5 Fish Farming 1 April 10, 2013 40
6
Food Processing
3
December 27, 2013
50 7 Mixed Farming 1 January 29, 2014 50
8
Farmers Meet
1
March 2, 2014
150
Table 10: Awareness Camps
7.3.2.2. Site visit
Field visits are highly useful to get know things directly. Other than class room sessions, farmers can feel the ambience of model farms/cultivation centers. Along with real experiences, farmers can examine and analyze different sustainable practices in agriculture sector. Additionally, it will help to adapt best practices. Field trips will be to the selected farms/knowledge centers/agriculture fields. Details of proposed field visits are as follows.
Sl. No
Date
Proposed Location
Number of Farmers 2 March 13, 2013 Bodhana Tiruvalla 40
2
April 13, 2013
National Seed Farm, Polachira, Kaviyoor
30 3 December 27, 2012 Ambadiyil Dairy farm, Tiruvandiyoor, Chengannoor 30
4
June 10, 2013
Duck Farm, Niranam
30 5 August 10, 2013 Central Hatchery, Chengannoor 30
6
October 19, 2013
Herbal Farm, Mar Athanasios College for Advanced Studies, Tiruvalla
35 7 February 27, 2014 Farm, Varghese Thundiyamkulath 30
Table 11: Site Visits

7.3.2.3. Krishivedi - New letter
Krishivedi is newsletter that includes articles of experts, scripts of farmers and program schedule of radio. Additionally, it will gather information about the seminars, exhibitions, awareness classes. This newsletter will cover recently announced schemes and subsidies by different government departments. This quarterly newsletter will be supplied to farmers through radio centers, farmers societies and different stake holders. It includes promotion of training resources and opportunities offered by other organizations, and the publication of guidelines, tips, information about different farming issues. A part of the material wills focus on the promotion and dissemination of traditional knowledge in farming. Additionally, it will incorporate "best practices" of farmers from different areas.
7.3.2.4. Awards
In the back ground radio programs and seminars, best farmers will be selected from major categories. Paddy Cultivation, Dairy Farming, Fish Cultivation, Herbal Farming and Mixed Farming will be selected sector for evaluation and awarding. Judgment panel constitutes of government department representatives and outside experts will evaluate the performance of farmers depending on the earlier published criteria. Best farmers will be recognized with cash awards. Additionally prestigious efforts will be recognized by other prizes. Details of prices are as follows.
Sl. No.
Sector
Prize Amount (Rs.)
Numbers 1 Paddy Cultivation 5,000 1
2
Dairy Development
5,000
1 3 Fish Cultivation 5,000 1
4
Herbal Farming
5, 000
1 5 Mixed Farming 5, 000 1
Table 12 – Project Awards

7.4. Man Power
Sl. No
Designation
Number 1 Project Director 1
2
Project Officer
1 3 Public Relation Officer 1
Table 13: Man Power Requirement
7.5. List of associated Experts
Sl. No.
Name
Area of Expertise 1 Dr. C. Balagopal Plant Protection and Bio technology
2
Dr. Maya Subrahmanyan
Herbal Farming 3 Dr. T.V.R. Nair Organic Farming and Mixed Farming
4
Dr. Reghurajan
Medicinal Plants 5 Pinchu Thomas, Faculty, MACFAST Food Processing
6
John Korath, Program Officer, Bio Science
Food and Vegetable Processing 7 Sam Eapen Paddy Cultivation
8
Fr. Thomas Peeliyanikkal
Paddy Cultivation 9 K.G. Luke, Agricultural Officer Coconut Development
10
K.P. Philippose, Agricultural Officer
Coconut Development 11 Deputy Director, Agricultural Office Agriculture
12
Amal Varghese
Fish Cultivation 13 Thomas Varghese, Asst. Director, Fisheries Fish Farming
14
Anil Kumar, Ambadiyil Dairy Farm
Poultry 15 Dr. George Varghese, Public Relation Officer Animal Husbandary
16
Shankaran Nambiar, Dairy Extension Officer
Diary Development 17 Varghese Thundiyamkulath Organic Farming and Mixed Farming
18
Principal Agricultural Officer
Agriculture
Table 14: List of Associated Experts

7.6. List of Agencies Associated
Sl. No.
Agencies
Sector 1 Coconut Development Board Coconut
2
Rubber Research Institute, Kottayam
Rubber 3 Agriculture Department Agriculture
4
Spices Board
Spices 5 Fisheries Department Fish Cultivation
6
Paddy Research Institute, Alappuzha
Paddy Cultivation 7 Sugar Cane Research Institute, Mankompu Sugar Cane
8
Ambadiyil Dairy farm, Tiruvandiyoor, Chengannoor
Dairy Development 9 National Seed Farm, Polachira, Kaviyoor Paddy Cultivation
10
Duck Farm, Niranam
Poultry 11 Central Hatchery, Chengannoor Poultry
12
Herbal Farm, Mar Athanasios College for Advanced Studies, Tiruvalla
Herbal Medicine 13 Paddy Farmers Society, Niranam Paddy Cultivation
14
Dairy Development Society
Dairy Development 15 RARAS, Kumarakom Agriculture
16
Krishi Vinjan Kendra
Agriculture 17 Bodhana Tiruvalla Mushroom and Honey
18
Kerala agricultural university
Agriculture 19 KISSAN Kerala Project Agriculture
20
Krishi Bbhavan
Agriculture 21 District Agricultural Farm Agriculture
22
Kerala State Poultry Development Corporation.
Poultry 23 Centre for Water Resource Development and Management (CWRDM) Water conservation
24
The Plantation Corporation of India
Plantation 25 Kerala Kerakarshaka Sahakarana Federation(KERAFED) Agriculture
26
State Farming Corporation of Kerala
Agriculture 27 Kerala State Horticultural Products Development Corporation Horticulture
28
Regional Agricultural Training center
Agriculture 29 Ornamental Fish Breeding resource centre Ornamental Fishing
30
National Fish Farm , Polachira
Fish farming Regional Artificial Insemination Centre (R.A.I.C), Ranni Fish farming
Disease Investigation Laboratory and Avian Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Pathanamthitta and Thiruvalla
Animal Husbandary

Table 15: List of Associated Agencies
7.7. Finance Sl. No. Particulars Unit Cost (Rs.) Numbers Total (Rs.) 1 Radio Programs Recorded Programs 1500 200 300000 Live Programs 2000 116 232000 Honorarium 500 216 108000 TOTAL 640000 2 Awareness Programs/Seminars Materials 20 485 9700 Food and Refreshments 75 760 57000 Rent 1500 13 19500 Power and Sound 3000 13 39000 Expert Fee 1250 40 50000 Honorarium 100 270 27000 Travelling 1500 12 18000 Coordination 2500 12 30000 TOTAL 250200 3 Site Visit 3000 7 21000 4 Awards 5000 5 25000 5 Publicity 5000 1 5000 6 Miscellaneous 15000 1 15000 7 News Letter 7000 6 42000 TOTAL 62000 9 GRAND TOTAL 998200
Table 16: Project Finance (Rupees nine lakhs ninety eight thousand two hundred only)

8. Conclusion
In this era of globalization, radio can prove to a reachable, cost effective and reliable ICT for the people. In order give robustness to second stage initiatives for green revolution good impetus from all parts of the society is required. In this back ground, a media which has strong grass root level audience can play a vital role.Community Radio can act as the friend of farmers by providing services traditional knowledge, market information, agricultural technologies and production specific knowledge are critical for farmers. However using radio for agriculture extension is just one dimension, as rural radio can serve multiple roles of extending agricultural development in rural areas. The project initiated by Radio MACFAST in association NABRAD has the caliber to the meet the needs of farming community and to enhance agriculture development to an extent. Radio MACFAST 90.4 has indeed started its journey to bridge the knowledge divide by triggering a knowledge revolution among the people in and around Tiruvalla. Many golden feathers add to this in each and every pace of its pursuit. Above all, it has a precise position in the hearts of people. Its unending passion towards community, urge to revive people, efforts to raise religious, social, cultural and national integration, social and environmental consciousness make this race a never ending frisson. ******************************************

Reference
 Administrative Profile - ENVIS Centre Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (KSCSTE)
 Training Needs of Paddy Cultivators in Nagaland - J.K. Chawang1 and K.K. JhA
 ACS Distance Education – Course Module
 Agricutural Statistics 2009-10, Department of Economics & Statistics, Kerala Page 71
 Report Of Survey on Input Cost Prevailed In Fisheries Sector in Kerala, Department of Economics & Statistics Thiruvananthapuram – 2009, Page 25
 Ksheeradhara Handbook, Page 30, NPCBB
 District Handbook, Pathanamthitta, Page 37-40
 Farm Guide 2000
 Statistical Reports, Census Data – 2001, Department of Economics & Statistics, Kerala
 http://www.farmradio.org/english/partners/privacy.asp
 http://kerenvis.nic.in/isbeid/adminprofile.htm
 http://pathanamthitta.gov.in/statistics.htm
 Kerala Karshakan, June Edition, 2010
 India’s Role in World Agriculture, Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, Page 12
 Agriculture: National Portal of India
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