Mandi, October 21, 2026: The Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project, implemented with the support of the Government of Himachal Pradesh and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), launched a one-day orientation programme under its ‘Next Generation Awareness Programme’ at Government Adarsh Senior Secondary School, Ghasanu, in Mandi district on Wednesday.
The programme was organised by the JICA Agriculture Project Unit, Mandi, in collaboration with the Centre for Technology and Entrepreneurship Development (CTED), Jagdishpur, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, the selected implementing agency.
Addressing the students, Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Block Project Manager, Mandi, explained the objectives and functioning of the Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project and its contribution to the agricultural sector. He encouraged students to develop a positive outlook towards agriculture, adopt modern and sustainable farming practices, and explore opportunities for agriculture-based livelihoods and self-employment.
The initiative aims to familiarise the younger generation with modern agricultural technologies, environmental conservation, sustainable farming methods and entrepreneurship opportunities in the agriculture sector.
The programme covers a range of subjects, including balanced diets and nutrition, natural farming, advanced agricultural technologies, climate-resilient farming, market awareness and employment opportunities in agriculture. Practical activities such as nursery raising, vermicomposting and the establishment of nutrition gardens are also included to provide students with hands-on learning experiences. Students are also introduced to polyhouse technology, water conservation and farming practices suited to changing climatic conditions.
Five schools have been identified under the initiative. A total of 150 students will be selected for a seven-day training programme, following which one school and five students will be shortlisted for the state-level competition.
As many as 51 students from Government Senior Secondary School, Ghasanu, participated in the orientation programme.
Those present included school Principal Laxman Das, School Management Committee President Inder Singh, Panchayat Pradhan Pushp Raj, Mandi Team Leader Gurdev, Block Coordinators Ashwani Kumar, Ashish and Anjali Thakur, along with other representatives. They encouraged students to participate actively in the programme and make the most of the learning opportunities offered through the initiative.
The programme seeks to strengthen young people’s understanding of agriculture as a sustainable livelihood and an emerging avenue for innovation and entrepreneurship in Himachal Pradesh.
