Collector Trupti Dhodmise says early exposure to farming, technology and nature can reshape children’s perception of agriculture
Sindhudurg has revived the ‘School on the Farm Bund’ initiative to take students directly to farms, introduce them to modern agricultural practices and build respect for farmers, labour and nature.
Sindhudurg: Sindhudurg District Collector Trupti Dhodmise has stressed the need to nurture an interest in agriculture among children from an early age, saying the revived “School on the Farm Bund — A Day for Farmers, Our Food Providers” initiative would help students understand farming, modern agricultural technology and the contribution of farmers to society.
The programme, jointly organised by the Education and Agriculture departments of the Sindhudurg Zilla Parishad, was inaugurated by the Collector at the Zilla Parishad Primary School in Terse Bambarde village of Kudal taluka.
Zilla Parishad President Pramod Kamat, Chief Executive Officer Ravindra Khebudkar, Vice-President Tukaram Sail, Education and Health Committee Chairman Pritesh Rawool, Tehsildar Sachin Patil, departmental officials, teachers, farmers, parents and students attended the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Dhodmise said agriculture was not merely an occupation but the foundation of the country’s food security.
She urged students to move beyond the traditional perception of farming and recognise it as a modern sector shaped by science, research, technology and innovation.
The Collector said the opportunity for rural students to gain direct, hands-on experience of agricultural practices was one of the initiative’s greatest strengths.
She recalled that the Sindhudurg Zilla Parishad had successfully implemented the innovative programme in 2017. After a gap of several years, it has now been revived with renewed emphasis on developing respect for physical labour, affection for farming and a closer relationship with nature.
Dhodmise said the initiative aimed to take students directly to farms, familiarise them with agricultural practices, strengthen their connection with the soil and cultivate gratitude towards farmers as the country’s food providers.
Students Display Traditional Tools and Modern Farming Practices
A special exhibition organised by the students was one of the key attractions of the programme.
The exhibition featured wild edible plants, traditional farming implements, different varieties of agricultural produce and information on modern farming practices.
Collector Dhodmise visited the displays, interacted with the students and appreciated their curiosity, preparation and efforts in presenting agriculture-related knowledge.
Zilla Parishad President Pramod Kamat also addressed the gathering.
The programme began with an introductory address by Vice-President Tukaram Sail, while Education and Health Committee Chairman Pritesh Rawool delivered the vote of thanks.
