Kerala’s New School‑Based Farming Initiative
The UDF government of Kerala has introduced Kathir. The scheme will provide each participating school with a grant of ₹10,000 to set up agricultural clubs. In parallel, a five‑year Krishi Sakhi programme will be launched to empower women farmers.
Key Developments
- Formation of agricultural clubs in schools across Kerala.
- Financial assistance of ₹10,000 per school for infrastructure, seeds and tools.
- Weightage marks to be awarded to students actively participating in Kathir clubs.
- Launch of the five‑year Krishi Sakhi scheme for women’s economic empowerment.
- Implementation of the Navo‑Dhan project alongside the new initiative.
Important Facts
During the inauguration at Valappad, Agriculture Minister T. Siddique demonstrated paddy cultivation on fallow land and hybrid vegetable planting under the Navo‑Dhan project. Where schools lack land, special committees will identify suitable plots. The programme is coordinated with the General Education department. Notable attendees included MLA Geetha Gopi, District Panchayat President Mary Thomas and Rural District Police Chief