Urban meets Rural!

ISRO facilitated Video conferencing between ICRISAT and AMS for DD national video recording program on 11^th July, 2008. The VC started at 11 am on 11^th July, 2008. The concept of Drought vulnerability maps was explained to the farmers of AMS by Ms. Priyanka. Farmers were encouraged to speak about the prevailing drought conditions and the measures they are undertaking to combat drought. Ms. Supriya explained the Vermicomposting procedure to the farmers.


Participants discussed the growing concern for issues relating to `drought', `climatic change' and `global warming'. It was felt that drought is not just the problem of farmers any more and that even urban people have to pay a price for it. Farmers are suggested to take up non-farm income-generation activities in order to supplement their income during the periods of crop-failure as well as to invest in infrastructural facilities like drip-irrigation. Urban people need to be encouraged to buy these products to support the cause.

The session went on well particularly because of the interactive elements included. Farmers solved the Think-out-side the box puzzle! The puzzle itself was introduced slowly building suspense and was first given in a more familar Rangoli (a pattern drawn on the floor/ground comnnecting dots) format. However, they couldn't recognize Mickey mouse - world's most recognized symbol. Probably the younger generation would have recognized it.

Global warming Puzzle

Looks like that `Climatic change and Global warming' are the new buzz words of this decade. It used to be `Sustainability' and `organic agriculture' a couple of decades ago. But this time the concept is gaining momentum and is taking the shape of a revolution possibly because of its applicability to the world at large and increased awareness made possible by enhanced communication technology. Its bearing on the `fuel sector' is probably the major driving force for driving many-a-player into the arena.


Although my role in the big picture is minimal, my own way of doing things has some significant contribution in inspiring the younger generation and spreading the awareness. On the menu are my usual two items - Cross word puzzle and a Parody song. The parody song is set to the tune of `Gallo telipotonde' song from Jalsa and was first presented at ANGRAU during the Earth day celebrations. The same song was developed by the participants of the summer camp by adding an accompanying power point presentation. SAKTI is also planning to include the puzzle and parody songs in their Climatic change awareness programmes.