Self Help Group (SHG) concept is promoted for capacity building of local communities. The development of group organisational and management skills are being promoted, with less reliance on services from the 'outsiders'. The Programme adopts an integrated approach involving activities encompassing all spheres of horticultural production and produce handling and it operates in selected geographic locations in the state of Kerala. Each SHG nominates Master Farmers (MF) who will be trained to take up a lead role and to act as facilitators.
Marketing
In addition to the SHGs and MFs, another innovative feature of KHDP is the concept of group marketing of produces through the Swasraya Karshaka Samithy (SKS). Under KHDP strategy the vipani's are the focal points for about 10 - 12 SHGs to market their produce together. Other marketing activities includes franchising retail market outlets (Udyanam) and Marketing Information Centre(MIC).
A credit system suited to farmer's production needs is already in place and firm linkages have been established between farmers and banks.Through this,cultivating farmers, including leaseland farmers, have easy access to bank financing.
Seed growers have been organized in palghat district through them quality seeds of .......vegetable crops are produced and marketed.
Trainings form one of the critical inputs of the Programme.The unit organises sequential technological and Human Resources Development trainings to farmers as well as to the extension functionaries of the project. Service is available to external agencies on request.
The extension component of KHDP is the key component for the implementation of most of the project activities such as organising farmers into SHGs, adoption of appropriate agricultural practices, supporting MFs for group marketing. Demonstration plots to show better results of recommended technologies are set up in farmers' field .Organising need based campaigns for mass awareness and action.
Applied R&D programmes are being conducted to develop crop management packages for tropical vegetable crops,banana and pineapple.
A Surveillance and Early Warning system is being organised on a regional level as part of the Integrated Crop Management approach (ICM). This will monitor the evolution of Pest & Disease in relation to weather condition and cropping pattern and inform the farmers on possible outbreaks.
The programme is promoting development of location specific and appropriate technology through Participatory Technology Development (PTD) process.