Integrated Farming Training at Eternal University

Eternal University, in collaboration with NABARD Shimla, conducted a 5-day intensive Farmer Training Programme to empower rural farmer families through the Integrated Farming System (IFS) model. The goal was clear—uplift livelihoods, promote self-sufficiency, and build sustainable farming ecosystems for small and marginal farmers.

Held within the university campus, the camp welcomed 40 farmers and offered both theoretical and hands-on training on diverse agricultural and allied enterprises, culminating in an exposure visit to Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni.

What is Integrated Farming System (IFS)?

IFS is a holistic farming approach that connects various agricultural components—such as dairy farming, vermicomposting, silage making, crop cultivation, food processing, and water harvesting—to ensure zero waste and maximum resource utilization. This model not only enhances income but also ensures ecological balance and employment generation.

Day-Wise Highlights of the 5-Day Training Programme

Day 1: Inaugural Session and Introduction to IFS

• Farmers were welcomed by Dr. Neelam Thakur, Assistant Professor of Zoology.
• Detailed insights were shared about the six pillars of IFS: Dairy, Vermicomposting, Silage, Crop Farming, Food Processing, and Rainwater Harvesting.
• A roadmap of the 5-day training, including lectures, demos, and field visits, was discussed.

Day 2: Dairy, Horticulture & Vermicomposting in Action

• Dr. Krishan Kumar discussed dairy farming, covering breeds, milking tools, and livestock management.
• Dr. Sushma Sharma spoke on pest and disease management in major regional crops like tomato, potato, peas, ginger, and beans.
• Field demonstrations included:
  • Akal Modern Dairy – showcasing milking techniques.
  • Silage Unit – silage making process using oats.
  • Vermicomposting Unit – hands-on composting methods.

Day 3: Food Processing Skills and Silage Hands-On

• Farmers learned to make tomato puree, apple jam, puff corns, cakes, pasta, and noodles from Eternal University’s Food Tech experts.
• A special repeat session on silage preparation was conducted by popular demand.

Day 4: Exposure Visit to UHF, Nauni

• Farmers interacted with experts like Dr. Rashmi Negi, Dr. Kuldeep Thakur, and Dr. Bharti Kashyap.
• Topics included:
  • Vegetable Science and Nursery Management
  • Floriculture and Value Addition in Dry Flowers
  • Medicinal Plants and Kiwi Orchard Management

Day 5: Rainwater Harvesting and Valedictory Function

• Final lectures were delivered by Dr. Mahesh Tripathi, Dr. Priyanka Thakur, and Dr. Praneet Chauhan on water conservation.
• Dr. Neelam Thakur concluded with a session revisiting the IFS model and its field-level applications.
• The Valedictory Function was graced by Mrs. Sonakshi Singh Tomar, ADC Nahan, and Eternal University leadership including Dr. Davinder Singh (VC) and Prof. A. S. Ahluwalia (Pro VC).
• A cash award of ₹10,000 was announced for the “Farmer of the Year” based on implementation of sustainable practices.

Voices from the Ground: Farmer Feedback

Farmers expressed heartfelt gratitude to Eternal University and The Kalgidhar Trust. Participants like Mr. Sajan Singh and Mrs. Anjana Kumari lauded the initiative for its role in women empowerment, livelihood enhancement, and hands-on learning.

Cultivating Knowledge, Harvesting Change

This training program marks a significant step in Eternal University’s mission to bridge the gap between research and rural development. By combining academic insight with practical field demonstrations, the initiative offers a replicable model of sustainable agriculture for Himachal Pradesh and beyond.

Empowered farmers grow more than crops—they grow communities, opportunities, and a future rooted in self-reliance.