THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Faced with crop loss, climatic uncertainties and falling price of cash crops, the agricultural sector in Kerala is going through a crisis. Driven into a debt trap, farmers are taking their own lives. The spate of suicides has left a blot on the State's image.

In a bid to empower farmers and ensure their livelihood security, All India Radio has embarked on a programme to promote sustainable farming. The collaborative venture with the State Cooperative Agricultural and Rural Development Bank is aimed at opening a window to the farmers across Kerala.

Titled `Krishi padha parambara,' the serialised programme comprises discussions and analyses for informed decision-making. It seeks to enlighten farmers about access to farm loans, good repayment benefits, effective utilisation, restructuring of loans and interests, micro finance and credit card facilities and crop insurance protection.

The panellists identified for the programme include farmers, farm workers, agricultural experts, scientists and policy makers.

Listeners are given an opportunity to voice their suggestions and opinions and propose topics for discussion. A feedback slot too has been incorporated into the programme.

Minister for Cooperation G. Sudhakaran inaugurated the programme on August 1, with K. Sivadasan Nair, MLA and president of the State Cooperative Agricultural and Rural Development Bank, delivering the keynote address.

The programme is being aired at 6.50 p.m. in 25 different chapters spread over three months. It will conclude on October 24. Some of the other farm programmes being broadcast by AIR include Vayalum Veedum, Karshaka Vedi, Grama Lakshmi, Haritham, Grama Keralam and Krishi Paadham.

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