Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) serve as knowledge and resources centres at district level. First KVK at Puducherry, 1974, a humble beginning has now turned into a dedicated large family of over 731 KVKs across the country, which strive for knowledge and technology empowerment of farmers. ICAR Outreach programmes include Farmers FIRST, Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture (ARYA), Cluster Frontline Demonstration of pulses and oilseeds, Cereal Systems Initiatives for South Asia (CSISA), National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA), Pulses Seed hubs, Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav and Awareness creation on government schemes, etc.
Annually more than 15 lakh farmers/farm women, rural youth and extension personnel are trained and technology demonstrations are conducted on more than 3 lakh farmers’ field. High quality seeds of improved varieties and hybrid of different crops, planting material, bio-products, livestock, poultry eggs and fingerlings are produced and distributed among the farmers, a service being provided on regular basis.