Palakkad MLA Shri Rahul Mamkootathil honors winners of Akshayasree Award 2024
Emphasizes the role of youth in farming in Kerala Jaiva
Samrakshana Samithi meeting
On the morning of 6th April, a sense of anticipation lingered in the air at the picturesque biodiverse farm of Athachi, where the monthly meeting of Kerala Jaiva Samrakshana Samithi was set to unfold.
Shri Rahul Mamkootathil, the MLA of Palakkad, graced the occasion by honoring the winners of the prestigious Akshayasree Award 2024 and highlighted the invaluable contributions of the recipients to the world of organic farming.
Stressing the need to involve youth in farming, the young MLA spoke passionately about the pivotal role the next generation could play in transforming the future of agriculture.
In line with this forward-thinking vision, the Samithi honored the visionary who spearheaded Kerala’s organic farming, Shri KV Dayal, and presented him with the DRR Dhan 65 and Kalabati rice varieties. He spoke at length on how universities could help teach new techniques to farmers and recognize them with certificates, the need for the government to ensure farmers get a fair return on their investments, and how value addition to farm produce could enhance returns.
Smt. Revathi Babu, president of Elappully Panchayat and a member of the governing body of the Samithi, shared her childhood farming experiences and how they shaped her leadership. She also highlighted the innovative cultivation of Bihar rice in Kerala, sparking renewed interest in sustainable farming practices.
The day had its fair share of heartwarming moments, including the Go Daan by the hosts, Athachi Group, which gifted native breed cows – 2 Kangayam pairs and 1 Kasargod Kullan pair – to deserving farmers. This reinforced Athachi Group’s commitment to promoting cow-centric farming – a practice at the heart of Athachi’s Trust Nature philosophy.
Building on this commitment, Dr. Vishwanath, the group’s MD, highlighted the significance of the Palakkad Gap Research findings – a comprehensive explorative study initiated and fully funded by the group – and its impact on the growth potential of the region’s ecology and economy.
Raven Krishi, the tech start-up from IIT Palakkad, introduced ground-breaking AI-based services that would improve farm productivity and enhance farm outputs.
The day concluded on a high note as the Athachi Group donated the prize money of the Akshaysree Award – Rs. 50,000 – to the Kerala Jaiva Samrakshana Samithi, reinforcing their commitment to community development.
The members of the Samithi had a great treat to their senses walking around the Athachi Farms, and to their taste buds with a typical Palakkad cuisine.
