ICAR–Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (ICAR-CRIDA), Hyderabad, organised a Kisan Mela at Mallampet Rythu Vedika, Kotapally Mandal of Mancherial district, Telangana on 26 July 2026 under its Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) programme.

Dr. V.K. Singh, Director, ICAR-CRIDA was the chief guest of the programme.Other dignitaries attended from ICAR-CRIDA are Dr. K.B. Sridhar, Nodal Officer (SCSP); Dr. J.V.N.S. Prasad, Project Coordinator, All India Coordinated Research Project for Dryland Agriculture (AICRPDA) Dr. P.K. Pankaj, In-charge, PME, and Dr. A.G.K. Reddy, Dr. H.B. Santosh, Dr. S. Suvana, Dr. Anshida Bheevi, and Dr. B. Bhargavi.

During the programme, farmers were sensitized about the anticipated El Niño conditions, their likely impact on agriculture, and appropriate crop management strategies to minimize climate-related risks. The scientists emphasized climate-resilient farming practices and advised farmers on suitable adaptation measures for sustaining productivity under changing weather conditions.

Under the SC Sub Plan, bullock-drawn ploughs and bio-fertilizers were distributed to eligible beneficiary farmers to strengthen farm mechanization and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Field visits to redgram demonstration plots, a Custom Hiring Centre, and poultry units were conducted, where they were exposed to improved agricultural practices and livelihood opportunities.

The event was also attended by Shri Banoth Prasad, Assistant Director of Agriculture; Shri Sai Krishna Reddy, Agriculture Officer; Smt. Are Venkatamma, Sarpanch, Kondampet; Smt. Thalla Venkatamma, Sarpanch, Mallampet, along with other public representatives. A large number of farmers from Mallampet, Edagatta, Rawalpalle, Kotapally, and neighbouring villages actively participated in the programme.