Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) Agro Rural Development & Food Processing Forum successfully organized an informative and engaging workshop titled “Apanee Chhat Apanee Sabjiyaan – अपनी छत अपनी सब्जियां” on 14th February 2026 at Jyeshth Nagrik Udyan, beside Siddharudh Mandir, Ram Nagar, Nagpur. The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from gardening enthusiasts, senior citizens, homemakers, and urban residents keen to adopt sustainable food practices.
The program commenced with the traditional Deep Prajwalan ceremony, followed by a warm welcome to the guests with plant saplings and mementos. The Chief Guest, CA Naresh Jakhotia, Vice President of VIA, appreciated the efforts of the Agro Rural Development & Food Processing Forum for organizing informative sessions for farmers, and commended the Mahila Commando team for their exemplary work in Walni village, particularly for formation of women commando team for prohibition of liquor. He also assured full support to the Mahila Commando team for the vegetable nursery enterprise.
Other dignitaries present included Mahila Commando Ashwini Bende, Hydroponics consultant, Rahul Langde, Terrace Garden expert Yogesh Aneja and Rupinder Kaur. The event was jointly conducted by Shachi Mallick, Convener of the Forum, and Dr Kirty Sirothia, Project Director of the event.
Om Jajodia, Chairman of VIA Agro Forum, delivered the welcome address and briefly outlined the objectives of the Forum. He emphasized the importance of urban agriculture, self-reliance in food production, and the need to promote eco-friendly practices in cities. He encouraged citizens to convert their terraces into green spaces contributing to both nutrition and environmental sustainability. R B Goenka, Mentor of VIA Agro Forum, blessed the event with his presence.
The first technical session on Hydroponics for Terrace Gardening was delivered by Rahul Langde. He explained the concept of soilless cultivation, nutrient management, water efficiency, and the advantages of hydroponics in urban settings where space and soil quality are limited. The session provided practical insights into setting up small-scale hydroponic systems at home.
The second session on Terrace Gardening was conducted by Yogesh Aneja and Rupinder Kaur Nanda. They discussed container gardening, soil mixtures, seasonal vegetable planning, pest management using organic methods, and effective use of limited urban spaces. Their interactive presentation motivated participants to begin with simple crops such as leafy greens, tomatoes, chilies, and herbs.
The third session titled “Harit Sakhi – हरित सखी : Ready Vegetable Plants for Terrace Gardening” was presented by Ashwini M Bende. She introduced the concept of providing ready-to-plant vegetable saplings to make terrace gardening easier for beginners. She highlighted how quality seedlings reduce initial failure rates and boost confidence among first-time gardeners.
An engaging Q&A session followed, moderated by Shachi Mallick, Convener of the Agro Forum where participants raised practical queries about maintenance, costs, sunlight requirements, and pest control. The experts addressed each question in detail, ensuring clarity and practical guidance.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Om Jajodia, Chairman of Agro Forum, who appreciated the speakers and participants for their active involvement. The event ended on a refreshing note with light refreshments and informal networking among attendees.
The workshop successfully reinforced the message that every terrace can become a source of fresh, healthy vegetables — empowering families towards self-sufficiency and greener living.
Sanjay Sinha, Rina Saha, Kapil Sahoo, Anirudhha Ansingkar and Laxmikant Padole worked hard for the success of the event which was attended by more than hundred participants.
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