PDKV to launch diploma in agriculture extension with Dhanuka Agritech

Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV), Akola, a state agriculture university is set to launch a new course ‘Diploma in Agriculture Extension Services for Input Dealers’ (DAESI) in association with Dhanuka Agritech, India’s leading agrochemical company. The one- year programme in Marathi is intended for agri input dealers, who will then be able to help farmers in their region more efficiently to improve their productivity through correct use of input products. At a very nominal fee, this has been planned as a weekend programme so that it does not hamper regular professional work of the dealers.
Dealers from Akola and nearby areas interested in pursuing the course can apply by paying 50 percent fee, as the rest will be paid by Dhanuka Agritech. The course is being designed by the Department of Entomology (DOE) at PDKV as per the agro-climatic conditions prevalent in Vidharbha to make it more relevant. The dealers will be provided all necessary study materials. At the end of the course, dealers will be given a certificate after periodic evaluation through assignments, examinations, among other activities.
Highlighting about the course, RG Agarwal, Chairman, Dhanuka Agritech said, “This is one such initiative that we have launched in multiple states and for first time in Maharashtra for the larger interest of the farming community. We hope to train many dealers who will make extension services reach a large number of farmers, and to the remotest areas. The training will enable them to aptly guide farmers on safe and judicious usage of crop protection/crop enhancement chemicals and efficient usage of water and other agri input.”
He gave an example of Cyprus rotundus for which so far no effective control was available but with the launch of Sempra farmer could control their maximum weed in sugarcane and maize crops, resulted increased yield and income by 20 percent. The company is also educating farmers about Army fall worm in maize crop and its proper management for saving their huge loss in crop, due to this insect.
Speaking on the programme, VM Bhale, Vice Chancellor, PDKV said, “We are pleased to associate with Dhanuka Agritech to launch this course and are confident that it will provide required knowledge and skills to agri input dealers and personnel about right usage of farm inputs. We hope that large number of dealers will enroll themselves in the course and are looking forward to make it on regular basis.”
Dhanuka Agritech has wide business stakes in Maharashtra through its large network of distributors and input dealers spread across the region. The company was first to join hand with National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) and provide financial support to agri input dealers of West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh for pursuing Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services (DAESI). The agrochemical company has also started DAESI programme with three Gujarat universities- Anand Agriculture University, Navsari Agriculture University and Junagarh, Agriculture University.