The Centre of Floriculture and Agri-business Management (COFAM), an extension wing of the North Bengal University, has launched hands-on training-cum-skill development certificate courses for youths who intend to take up careers in the field of agriculture.

Amrendra Kumar Pandey, the practical demonstrator of COFAM, said that many students in the NBU and colleges affiliated with it, come from rural backgrounds. This apart, he said that the agro-climatic conditions of the region are favourable for horticulture and agriculture.

“Keeping these two factors in mind, we have introduced these courses which can help them and other youths who are into agriculture, to hone their skills,” Pandey said.

The courses, he said, have been designed in a manner that they would help youths learn innovative agricultural practices.

Among these include a five-day course on commercial hydroponics. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions in water.

“In commercial operations, plants are grown in a controlled environment, where their roots are immersed in a solution with nutrients,” said a source.

There is another course on protected cultivation of vegetables and crops where participants would be introduced to various components of protected cultivation, greenhouse technology, mulching, affordable low-cost natural ventilated greenhouse technology, bed making, drip irrigation, fustigation system and high value/unseasonal crops grown under greenhouse and precision farming.

“We have certificate courses on mushroom cultivation, vertical roof gardening, landscape horticulture, pearl culture, terrarium culture, vermicomposting, plant tissue culture, nursery management and landscaping,” said
Pandey.

The fees, he said, range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000. “In recent years, diversifications are seen in agriculture and horticulture and many youths are choosing this avenue for self-employment. These courses are an opportunity for them to acquire new skills,” he added.