16 – 22 August, 2026 || Nadia Krishi Vigyan Kendra
20th Parthenium Awareness Week
Nadia Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), BCKV-ICAR, Gayeshpur, Nadia, W.B. successfully organized the 20th Parthenium Awareness Week on its campus. The programme was conducted as part of a nationwide campaign initiated by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to raise awareness about the hazardous weed Parthenium hysterophorus, commonly known as “Congress grass or Carrot grass,” and to encourage community participation in its eradication.
The inaugural session was attended by scientists, staff members, farmers, Extension functionaries and RAWE students. At the beginning, experts highlighted the harmful effects of Parthenium on human and animal health, crop productivity and the environment. It was emphasized that the weed causes skin allergies, asthma, and reduces biodiversity by suppressing useful vegetation.
During the week, various activities were carried out, including:
- Awareness campaigns through lectures and group discussions.
- Demonstrations on mechanical and cultural control methods.
- Campus and field cleaning drives with active participation from farmers, students, and staff.
A total of 144 farmers, students, Extension functionaries, RAWE students and staffs actively participated in the activities and contributed to the progress of the programme by engaging in training sessions, cleaning drives, and awareness initiatives.
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The programme also encouraged farmers to adopt eco-friendly and sustainable management practices for controlling Parthenium. Pamphlets and informational materials were distributed to spread the message further in surrounding villages.
The event concluded with a pledge-taking ceremony in which all participants committed themselves to creating a Parthenium-free environment. The week-long activities successfully generated significant awareness among farmers and the local community about the importance of collective action in weed management.