Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (DV)
Mangalore, Jul 13: It was a heart-warming sight at Marakalabettu in Konaje here on Sunday July 13 as over 300 students, under the guidance of elders, took to paddy cultivation on one acre of land. The villagers expressed pleasant surprise at youngsters engaging in agricultural activity with such enthusiasm and wholeheartedly appreciated their efforts.
It is a fact that youth today are moving away from agriculture. On the other hand, there is a scarcity of farm labourers due to which lands have gone barren without agricultural activities. This being the case, it was a rare opportunity for youngsters to get hands-on experience at farming and learn the skills of paddy cultivation.
The activity was taken up by NSS students of Mangalore University as part of their four-day camp. The joy on the faces of students was a testimonial to the fact that they thoroughly relished the outdoor activity and felt contentment in bonding with nature.
Altogether, 380 students from 88 colleges under Mangalore University learnt about paddy cultivation.
Prior to the activity, Vijaya Rural Development Prathistana CEO Basappa Mudole, Konaje gram panchayat former president Achutha Gatti, who were the resource persons, provided information on agriculture and particularly on paddy cultivation.
Konaje gram panchayat member Muthu Shetty taught students some of the traditions songs sung by women while farming.
The students also enjoyed various rural games later on in the slush fields.
Prasad Rai Kalimar of Lions Club Mangalagangotri flagged off the programme. NSS coordinator Prof Vinitha K presided.
Rajesh Shetty Pajir Guthu of Lions Club Mangalagangothri, Mahabala Gatti of Nagabrahma Temple, Seetharam Gatti, Mangala Rural Youth Association president Abdul Rahiman, K M Harish Poojary, NSS officers Keshav, Harish, Vanith, Madhu and others were present.