Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) - Key Facts and Figures, MCQs

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) - Key Facts and Figures, MCQs:

(Source: krishi.icar.gov.in)

• The first KVK was established in 1974 at Pondicherry under the administrative control of the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore.
• In 1976-77 , the Planning Commission approved the proposal of the ICAR to establish 18 KVKs during the Fifth Five Year Plan.

What is a Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)?

• A Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) is an agricultural extension centre in India. The name itself translates to “Farm Science Centre .” These centers play a crucial role as the ultimate link between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and farmers . Their primary objective is to apply agricultural research in a practical, localised setting .

Origins and Purpose:

• The first KVK was established on a pilot basis in 1974 at Puducherry (Pondicherry) under the administrative control of the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore .
• KVKs aim to bridge the gap between research institutions and farmers by disseminating scientific knowledge and technologies directly to the grassroots level.
• They serve as a vital conduit for translating research findings into actionable practices that benefit farmers.

Responsibilities of KVKs:

• On-Farm Testing: KVKs conduct field trials and experiments to validate agricultural technologies under local conditions.
• Front-line Demonstration: They showcase improved crop varieties, livestock breeds, and other technologies to farmers.
• Capacity Building: KVKs organise training programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns for farmers, extension workers, and rural youth.
• Multi-sector Support: Beyond agriculture, KVKs address allied sectors such as horticulture, animal husbandry, and agroforestry.
• Advisory Services : They provide expert advice on crop management, pest control, soil health, and more.

Productive Outputs:

• KVKs produce quality technological products, including seeds, planting material, bio-agents, and livestock. These are made available to farmers.
• They identify and document selected farm innovations and actively converge with ongoing schemes and programs within their mandate.

Distribution and Affiliation:

• As of the current date, there are 731 KVKs established in the country.
• These centers are affiliated with various institutions:
• 506 under Agricultural Universities (Highest)
• 66 under ICAR Institutes
• 103 under NGOs
• 38 under State Governments
• And others affiliated with Central Universities, Public Sector Undertakings, Deemed Universities, and Other Educational Institutions.

Regional Distribution:

• KVKs are divided into 11 ATARI Zones for effective functioning and monitoring.
• Each zone covers specific states and union territories:
• For example, ATARI Zone I (Ludhiana) covers Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Uttarakhand.
• Similarly, other zones cover different regions of India.

Multiple Choice Questions:

When was the first Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) established, and where?

A) 1972, Kerala

B) 1974, Pondicherry

C) 1976, Tamil Nadu

D) 1980, Karnataka

Correct Answer: B) 1974, Pondicherry

How many KVKs were functional by the end of the Tenth Plan?

A) 290

B) 261

C) 731

D) 634

Correct Answer: C) 731