IRTC has taken up programmes in various technology areas as detailed below.
Technologies Absorbed
IRTC has absorbed some technologies developed by reputed research institutes and translated them into production protocols and trained potential entrepreneurs in addition to those mentioned in 2.
A few of them are listed below:
1. Hand Made Soap Production
Source: Various sources
Method: Interaction done with a number experts/individuals about various technologies/methodologies and combinations they are using. Through trial and error and chemical analysis a technology and combination was finalized. Perfected the technology, standardized the production technology and combinations for coconut oil available in plenty in Kerala.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, in size, shape, performance and procedure to suit local tastes and demands.
Dissemination efforts: The concept of hand made soap and other aspects were propagated by the KSSP. Training given for starting self employed enterprises to thousands of individuals and dozens of voluntary organizations. Presently working on developing a suitable network of these enterprises.
Results: A huge success. More than 2000 persons now engaged in this activity.
2. Production of Oyster Mushroom
Source: Kerala Agricultural University and Tamilnadu Agricultural University
Method: Interaction with experts from the above institutions. Under gone training in the production. Set up a lab under their guidance and supervision. Developed the capability under them through establishing mushroom production facilities and spawn production facilities in the campus. Presently conducting trials on mushroom production using paddy straw and other locally available materials.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, especially in the case of locally available substrates and rearing practices.
Dissemination efforts: Training given to hundreds of individuals and dozens of voluntary organizations in oyster mushroom cultivation, processing and also on spawn production. IRTC regularly supplying quality spawns to the mushroom farmers.
Results: A number of individuals and about 30 groups now successfully engaged in production.
3. Aqua Culture and Ornamental Fisheries
Source: Dept. of Fisheries, Government of Kerala
Method: Took experts from the department on deputation to set up the aquaculture division in IRTC. Interaction with experts. Developed the capability under the experts by establishing aquaculture production facilities and breeding facilities in the campus. Presently IRTC has facilities for hatching, breeding and rearing of fresh water fishes and ornamental fishes.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, in developing breeding techniques for local varieties.
Dissemination efforts: Training and support to fish farmer’s groups. Training given to 20 persons in ornamental fishery. IRTC supplying quality fish spawns to the aqua farmers and providing technical support.
Results: About half a dozen groups are now engaged in aquaculture.
4. Vermi Composting
Source: Various sources
Method: Visited various organisations and institution who are engaged in similar activities and understood the various methodologies. Developed a technology by trial and error method of various combinations. Standardisation of production conditions are underway.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, in standardising bed conditions and feeds.
Dissemination efforts: Training is being given to farmers and several women groups for setting up of vermi-compost units. Supplying worms to farmers and individuals.
Results: There is a steady demand for worms from new units.
5. Cultivation of Medicinal Plants
Source: TBGRI, Kerala Agricultural University
Method: Visited various organisations and institutions and had interactions with experts. Mother plants were collected from these institutes to develop a nursery in IRTC. Presently developing nursery methods related to cultivation of medicinal plants. Production of planting materials is also being done.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, in nursery techniques to suit local conditions.
Dissemination efforts: Training being given to individuals and SHGs and planting materials are being made available.
Results: There is a steady demand for nursery materials
6. Rabbitry
Source: Kerala Agricultural University
Method: Established a central rabbit rearing unit with pure breed and cross breed rabbits from the Kerala Agricultural University with the help of their experts. Developed the capability under their direct supervision and guidance. Standardised the rearing practices, feeds, cages, etc.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, in standardising in local feeds, low cost cages, etc.
Dissemination efforts: A hand book on rabbit rearing was prepared and being made available. Training is being given to individuals and women groups. Also kindlings are being made available.
Results: There are a number of rabbit rearing units in operation. There is a big demand for training and kindlings.
7. Azolla Cultivation
Source: Kerala Agricultural University, Tamilnadu Agricultural University
Method: Started Azolla cultivation with mother plants from Agricultural Universities and with the help of their experts. Developed the capability under their supervision and guidance. Standardised the method of production in small ponds and low cost tanks.
Whether adaptation done: Yes, in designing suitable ponds
Dissemination efforts: Demonstration and training is being given. Azolla is being distributed/sold for starting Azolla cultivation and as cattle feed. Also kindling are being made available. A hand book is under preparation.
Results: The farmers are quite enthusiastic and many people have started Azolla cultivation for their own use.
