Telangana to Launch School Horticulture Gardens & Student Startups
Wanaparthy, March 12: Skill development and modern knowledge are essential for students to secure a bright future, said Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University Vice Chancellor Dr. Danda Raji Reddy. Speaking at a career training program organized by the Horticultural College in Mojerla, Peddamandadi Mandal, Wanaparthy district, in collaboration with the Ekka Group Foundation, he emphasized that personal development plays a crucial role alongside technical skills in today’s competitive world.
Dr. Raji Reddy announced that a ‘horticulture garden model’ is being developed for implementation in every school across Telangana. This initiative will enable students to cultivate their own vegetables and fruits for mid-day meals, ensuring better nutritional support. Additionally, he revealed plans to establish special study centers in every college to help students prepare for competitive exams, with expert coaching arranged from across the country.
Call for Increased Plant Density and Water Conservation
Later, during an inspection of horticulture students’ fields, Dr. Raji Reddy highlighted the importance of increasing plant density in fruit orchards to protect crops during the summer. Given the prevalence of problematic soils in the region, he advised that horticulture gardens should be developed only after proper soil testing.
He further stated that the horticulture college will produce and supply grafted saplings of mango, guava, pomegranate, fig, and custard apple to farmers. Stressing the need for water conservation, he urged students and farmers to maintain water ponds in orchards to safeguard crops during dry spells.
Encouraging students to explore horticulture-based industries, he announced that the university is ready to fund ‘student horticulture start-ups.’ He also assured that additional classrooms will be constructed for students, and exposure visits will be arranged across various districts and states to enhance their understanding of horticulture crops.
Automatic Weather Station Launched for Farmers
Dr. Raji Reddy also inaugurated the India Meteorological Centre Automatic Weather Station at the college. He stated that the facility would provide farmers with precise weather-based horticultural advisories, including guidance on pest control and cultivation practices. The newly installed system will offer real-time data on temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind direction, and sunlight, helping farmers across the district make informed agricultural decisions.
The event saw the participation of University Registrar Dr. Bhagwan, Associate Dean Dr. Pidigam Saidaiah, Estate Officer Nageshwar Reddy, Consultant Veeranjaneyulu, along with professors Dr. Shahnaz, Dr. Purnima Mishra, Dr. Srinivas, Dr. Shankar Swamy, Dr. Gautami, Dr. Vidya, Dr. Navya Swetha, Dr. Bhaskar, and several students and staff members.
