VHSE Curriculum

ABOUT THE COURSE

Agriculture is the cultivation of plants, fungi and other life forms for
food, fibre, biofuel, medicinal and other products used to sustain and
enhance human life. Modern agronomy, plant breeding, agro chemicals
such as pesticides and fertilizers, and technological improvements have
sharply increased yields from cultivation, but at the same time have
caused widespread ecological damage and negative human health
effects. A major problem faced by the farmers of kerala is the attack by
various pest and diseases in all cultivated crops. It is a known fact that
the incidents of pest and diseases varies with weather, soil and ecology
- and a clear understanding of this variation is inevitable. One of the
main reasons for low productivity of crops is the increased incidence of
pest and diseases. There is no sufficient mechanism to monitor the
incidence of pest and diseases in agro ecological units of the state.
Considering the importance of the crop health management Govt. of
Kerala has launched major schemes for crop health management in 2013
-14 onwards - (Vide Order No.GO(RT) No.1659/13/AD/NCA dated
19/09/2013 and Govt. of Kerala, Directorate of Agriculture, Circular No.
TD(1)42860/13 dated 05/10/2013. The course of study focuses on
sound crop health management strategies.
The nation has an acute shortage of such trained personals to cater to the
demands of crop production technology and disease management.
This vocational course aims at meeting this situation by generating
skilled human resources for the total remedies for agri - crop health
management. The course is designed in such a way to train students
and to have a direct link with farmers at grass root level and give them
proper guidance. The course develops the students in to independent
crop health consultants at village level or any agri research organization
to meet the supervisory level crop health management requirements.
As village level consultants, the students with wide subject
acquaintance can be resource to farmers in identifying the problem,
giving them timely and proper advice and help them in pest control.
With the acquired knowledge they can suggest the farmers pick up
proper health control methods and modes of application thereby
contributing to effective check measures.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE

1.

Creating awareness on environmental

indiscriminate use of pesticides

2.

Use of pest and diseases diagnostic tool kit

3.

To learn how to pest and disease surveillance system

4.

To understand how and where to implement the surveillance

system

5.

Integrated pest and disease management

6.

Awareness of production techniques of various biocontrol agents

7.

Mass production of biocontrol agents and management of

biocontrol labs

8.

Development of new biopesticides

9.

Quality control measures of organic and biopesticides

10.

Skill development in field level application of safer / new

generation pesticides

11.

Management of crop health clinic at Panchayat or Village levels

12.

Associate with KVKs for supporting surveillance and clinics

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hazards

due

to

VHSE Curriculum

Job Roles (Career Path)

Government / Semi
Government
Assistant Agricultural

Officer.
Agriculture Assistant
KLDB
Agri Extension Assistant
Supply Chain Field
Assistant
Seed processing Worker
Quality seed grower
Green house fitter
Floriculturist (open and
protected cultivation)
Gardener
Laboratory Technical
Assistant in VHSE
Vocational Instructor in
VHSE
Work superintendent in
Department of Agri
culture
All other posts where
basic
qualification
required is plus two
Field or Farm technician
(IISR)
Field Assistant and Farm
supervisor (Farming
corporation)
Farm
Technical
Assistant (Plantation
corporation Limited)
Field Assistant (LEADS)
Field Assistant (CTCRI)
Field Assistant ( FSRS)
Field Assistant (VFPCK)
Field Assistant (KAU)
Technical
Assistant
(KVK)

Private Sector

Self Employment

Food sample collector

Production sector

Post harvest technician

Private nursery

Technician in Processing

Mushroom cultivation
and spawn production

industries

Technician in repair &

maintenance of Proce
ssing Equipments

Field

Representative
(Fertiliser and Pesticide
companies)

Assistants in Agriculture
based
programmes

media

Gardeners / Farm super

visors

Assistants in crop health

clinics

Agri Extension service

provider

Harvesting

machine

operator

Supply

chain

assistant

Micro irrigation
technician

Vermicomposting
Coir pith composting
Azolla cultivation
Organic manure
production
Bio fertilizer
production
Seed production and
processing unit
Hiring of agricultural
implements
Repair of agricultural
implements
Apiculture
Protected cultivation

field

Service sector
Training on above
sectors
Agro-clinics
Agricultural
consultancy

Irrigation services
Harvest services
Other farm services
Agro Service Centers

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

SUBJECT APPROACH
The vocationalisation of education in India has been launched with the
vision and concept of Mahatma Gandhis dream on Basic Education.
India is an agricultural country and Kerala being one of its most
populated states depend mainly on development of agriculture. Since
the achievement of statehood in 1956, Kerala has been exploring all the
potential possibilities to promote agriculture and thereby achieving self
sufficiency in food and employment generation. But it worth mentioning
that in Kerala the youth is moving away from agriculture to other
comparatively more remunerative fields poses a serious threat on the
agrarian future . An asymmetric socio-economic reign with undue
importance on consumerism is detrimental to the state in long run. A
paradigm shift in this regard especially placing the agricultural sector
in the upfront of the present socio- economic structure of the society
requires concerted effort. As a matter of fact there is a need to restructure
and realign the sub segments of agricultural sector like production
sphere, marketing arena, value chain and educational spectrum.
Farmers and consumers need healthy plants and quality plant derived
products for consumption. Efforts to improve plant health have been
evolving with increased understanding of plant ecology and pest
management.
The course approach of crop health management in agriculture focusing
on agroecosystem and human health evolved out of sound plant health
management interventions. The course approach of crop health
management will bring together management towards sustainable
ecosystems and peoples health through good plant protection practices,
(GPPP) Pest management strategies need to recognize that plant health
is an essential element of sustainable agriculture.Improvement in
integrated pest and disease management can lead to sound crop health
management.
The course structure gives emphasis on nutrient requirements of
various crops common in Kerala. It deals with the modern technologies,
Bio pharmacies etc. with adequate informations. Problems like
pollution of soil water and air can be easily managed by the optimum
use of fertilizers and pesticides. Modern scenario exposes employment
opportunities in microbiology lab, biofertilizer production centre and
biopharmacy production centre. More eco friendly methods are
included in the subject foreseeing the future requirement of pest and
disease management.

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VHSE Curriculum

OBJECTIVES

To generate general as well as specific awareness about the

various agriculture sectors and activities.

To equip personnels in identifying and managing pest and

diseases in an ecofriendly manner.

To supply a pool of efficient and empowered personnel in plant

health management.

To supply efficient and skilled personnel in establishing and

maintaining Biopharmacies.

To create skilled personnel in bio fertilizer manufacturing centre.

To create efficient and skilled technicians in pest and disease

control in green houses.

To supply efficient personnel for IPDM.

To train personnel
management.

To train skilled personnel for soil testing laboratories.

to

implement

projects

in

biowaste

The Kerala School Curriculum has been revised in the year 2013- 14 in
tune with the recommendations in Childrens Right to Free and
Compulsory Education- Kerala Rules and Provisions-2011. The
characteristics of Kerala School Curriculum -2013 can be summarized
as it is child centered, process related, activity oriented and value based.
It lays stress on the learning outcomes at the cognitive, process,
attitudinal and value domains. The teacher has the freedom to employ
logical and variegated learning strategies during the transaction
process. It gives importance to ensuring the learning outcomes to all
learners. Based on these learning outcomes continuous and
comprehensive evaluation is recommended. The curriculum also lays
emphasis on the code of professional ethics for teachers.
With regard to learning process the following points are given
importance.
1.

The learners relate their previous knowledge to the knowledge

they newly construct.

2.

The differential needs of the learners are to be addressed by

selecting and adapting learning activities.

3.

Learning and assessment are complimentary to each other.

4.

Learning process should aim at the all round development of the

learner.

With all the above ends in view, the learning strategies are so designed
and to be implemented. The learning activities proposed are diversified
in their nature but is ensured to engage all learners both the gifted as

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

well as the slow pace learners. Projects, experiments, discussions, panel

discussions, debate, survey, assignments, seminars, interviews,
exhibitions, multimedia presentations, formulations, constructions and
so on are the strategies proposed for transacting the learning outcomes
in a learner centered experiential manner. The teacher has the freedom
to employ any suitable strategy to transact a particular content area,
provided she should ensure that the prescribed learning outcome is
achieved by all the learners. Each learning activity should be designed
in such a way that there is provision for continuous assessment to
promote better learning. There should be slots for assessment as
learning and assessment for learning. The learning evidences or learning
products should be clearly specified while framing the activities.
Teacher should have a thorough planning to explore the maximum
possibilities of variegated learning resources especially ICT materials
for making the learning more effective. There should also be provision
for catering the academic needs of all children (gifted as well as CWSN).
The parents and society have a crucial role in promoting the level of
learning of all children. For this, the teacher should explore all
possibilities for utilizing the resources of the community for enhancing
better learning of all children.

INFRASTRUCTURE
The revised VHSE curriculum in ACHM demands well equipped and
sophisticated infrastructural facilities in order to transact it in a most
effective manner which is detailed below

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Resource repositories including interactive multimedia with smart

class rooms should be made available in each course
Sufficient number of Laptops and accessories should be made
available for teachers as well as students.
Facilities for online referencing for students should be ensured.
Lab facility for mass multiplication of bio control agents can be
provided.
A well equipped Bio Pharmacy unit may be provided.
PTC sales counter unit should be established in each school
Cultivable land, Irrigational facility and drainage facility must be
provided.
As mechanization is essential in modern era, following small farm
machineries should be made available
Soil Health Clinic and Consultation soil centers can be established
in each school.
Agri KIOSK centers with touch screen facilities should be
established in each school as a part of farmer service.

VHSE Curriculum

Poly house unit, Mist chamber, Rain Shelter, Micro irrigation unit,
Vermi compost unit, Biocontrol Lab etc. should be established.
Softwares like E - crop doctor for diagnosis of pest and diseases &
KAU Fertulator for Fertilser calculation should be made available
Essential plant protection chemicals,biopesticides, fertilizers,
manures, ls needed for preservation should be made available
Essential materials, tools and implements for cultivation practices,
plant propagation, seedling production, plant protection
equipments and all other activities for the efficient functioning of
PTC.
A well equipped library with print rich references, periodicals,
leaflets, pamphlets, journals etc. should be made available.
Updated IT Resources should be ensured in schools at easy access
of students and teachers.
Store room and work sheds should be provided.

ASSESSMENT
The course exclusively focus on assessment as learning, assessment for
learning, assessment of learning as envisaged in the school curriculum.
Continuous Assessment is given due importance as it promotes
learning and ensures the achievement of the prescribed learning
outcomes by all the students.
I.

The continuous assessment areas are detailed as follows

1. Process assessment
2. Portfolio assessment
3. Unit assessment

II.

Practical evaluation is also proposed

Indoor practical works in labs

Field visit

Visits in production cum training centres

On the job training

Case studies

Demonstration

Practical record and vocational diary are considered as the records for
practical evaluation.
III. Internship Evaluation
The vocational competence as well as the socio-emotional skills of the
students is also to be evaluated and considered for certification.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

IV. Theory examination

Theory examination is also suggested as part of TE. It can be done
through written examination with items of testing higher order mental
processes as well as depth of conceptual understanding.

SYLLABUS
MODULE - 1
AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES
1.

Introductory Agriculture

Agriculture-definition,
branches,
milestones
in
agriculture
development in India, Major crops in India and Kerala, Area,
production and productivity of major crops in Kerala, Important
Agricultural Institutions- teaching and research institutions, extension
centres, agri based governement and semi government organisations.
2.

Agrometeorology

Meteorology-agricultural meteorology-definition, weather and climate,

microclimate, meteorological observatory and instruments to measure
weather elements, automated weather stations, weather forecasting,
Crop seasons in India and Kerala, Monsoons in Kerala
3.

Soil health management

Soil profile, physical properties-soil structure and texture, Soils of

Kerala-problem soils of Kerala , Soil acidity- liming materials, soil
alkalinity and its amelioration, Soil erosion-definition, types of erosionwater erosion- Wind erosion- Soil and water conservation-agronomic
measures- mulching, contour farming, strip cropping, alley cropping,
multitier cropping, mixed cropping, intercropping, crop rotation,
grass/fodder cultivation, cover cropping, zero tillage, biofencing/
vegetative fencing. Engineering measures- Percolation pits/ soak pits,
contour bunding, making basins around trees, trenches, bench terracing,
check dams, gabions, inward and outward terracing, brushwood check
dams, gabion checkdams, artificial water holding structures and
renovation of existing bunds, weirs, sidewalls, geotextiles. Soil
pollution- causes, practices to maintain soil health, Soil quality
monitoring- Soil health card, Remote Sensing and GIS.
Tillage-definition and objectives, types and effects of tillage in soil- zero
tillage, minimum tillage, primary and secondary tillage implements,
and small farm machinery
Plant Nutrition- Essential elements-macro and micro, Functions,
Deficiency and toxicity symptoms of N, P, K. Manures and fertilizersclassification, Organic manures- bulky and concentrated- FYM,
compost, different composting methods, green manuring. Chemical

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VHSE Curriculum

fertilizers-straight, complex, mixed fertilizers, biofertilizers- examples

and use. Integrated Nutrient Management, Methods of fertilizer
application, Calculation of fertilizer requirement, KAU Fertulator, Soil
fertility evaluation- soil testing, plant tissue analysis-DRIS methods,
critical levels in plants, rapid tissue test, indicator plants, biological
methods of soil fertility evaluation, Soil based plant nutrient
management information system. Organic farming and sustainable
agriculture- Component of organic farming and their role in sustainable
crop production, nutrient management in organic farming, disease and
pest management in organic farming.
4.

Irrigation technology

Irrigation-definition, methods of irrigation- surface, subsurface, micro

irrigation, special methods (drip, sprinkler, mist, bubbler, pivot),
fertigation, chemigation, quality of irrigation water and its
management, drainage- importance in crop production, Rainwater
harvesting-techniques and structures-ferrocement tank, percolation
pits(emerging innovative models)
5.

Plant propagation techniques

Types of propagation-sexual propagation-seed- definition, qualities of

good seed, classes of seed, sowing methods, seed propagation- seed
bed preparation, hybrid seed propagation, vegetable seedling
production, portray seedling production. Seed testing- methods of
testing germination percentage. Asexual propagation methods cutting, layering, budding, grafting, tissue culture, vegetable grafting
6.

Crop Pest management

Pest-definition, classification with examples, plant disease-common

symptoms and pathogens, weeds-uses and harmful effects, dryland and
wetland weeds, Plant protection methods, Biopharmacy, plant
protection chemicals and different formulations (emphasis to new
generation pesticides), plant protection equipments, weed
management, E- Crop Doctor, Crop diagnostic centres.

MODULE 2
CROP PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY
1.

Agronomic classification of crops:

Cereals - Pulses - Millets - Oil seeds -Tuber crops - Fruits - Vegetables

- Spices and Condiments - Plantation crops - Medicinal and aromatic
plants -Fibre crops - Sugar crops - Fodder crops - Narcotic crops Green Manure crops.
2.

Farming system

Concept and different types of farming system with examples

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Their merits and demerits - Monocropping - Crop rotation - Inter

cropping - Mixed cropping - Ratoon cropping - Multi-tier cropping Relay cropping - Mixed farming - Homestead farming.
Integrated Farming System-Concepts -Goals - Components Mushroom,
Vermiconpost, Azolla, Livestock, Poultry, Aquaculture, Biogas Plant
- Advantages and disadvantages - Success Stories.
3.

Crop production Technology of Field crops

RICE
Climatic requirements - Soil - Season - Varieties (Include Recent varieties
and Geographic indexing) - Seed rate - Seed Treatment - Nursery
preparation - Wet Dry Dapog - Spacing - Fertilizer Recommendation
- Common weeds in Rice fields - Kole, Pokkali, Kaipad cultivation Transplanting IPDM- System of Rice Intensification(SRI) techinique Scope of farm Mechanization in rice cultivation and Post Harvest
Handling-Value addition-Current Trends in Rice production(For
additional information only)
TAPIOCA
Climatic requirements - Soil - Varieties - Propagation - Mini sett
propagation technique - Preparation of Land - Season and Planting Manuring - Irrigation -Intercropping - Value addition - Pests and
Diseases - Biopesticide from Tapioca. Current trends in Tapioca
production (For additional information only).

FODDER CROPS
Guinea grass - Hybrid Napier - Congo Signal Grass - Subabul - Agathi
- Stylo - Mention Silo, Silage, Haylage-Planting material-Fertilizer
recommendations-Harvesting -Yield-varieties.
4.

Crop production Technology of Vegetables

Solanaceous vegetables.
Brinjal Tomato Chilli, Varieties -Seed rate -Spacing - Manuring - Pest
and Diseases
Cucurbitaceous vegetables
Bitter gourd Snake gourd - Bottle gourd Ash gourd Pumpkin
gherkins, Varieties - Seed rate - Spacing - Manuring - Pest and Diseases
Cool Season vegetables
Carrot Cabbage Cauliflower, Varieties - Seed rate- Spacing Manuring - Pest and Diseases.
Amaranthus, Bhindi, Cow pea
Varieties - Seed rate- Spacing - Manuring -Pest and Diseases

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VHSE Curriculum

Kitchen garden, Terrace Cultivation

Current Trends in Vegetable Cultivation (for additional information
only)
5.

Crop production Technology of Plantation crops

COCONUT
Scientific name -Soil -Site selection -Important Cultivars /Hybrids Coconut Nursery Techniques (Mother palm selection, seed nut storage,
Coconut nursery preparation and seedling selection) - Cultivation
practices - Land Preparation - Planting - Spacing - Planting systems Time of Planting - Irrigation different techniques drip irrigationWeeding - Intercropping - Drought management - Husk burial Mulching - Cover crops and green manure crops - Manuring. Plant
protection - Pests Rhinoceros beetle, Redpalm weevil, Black headed
Caterpillar, Eriophid mite, Nut crinkler. Diseases-Bud rot,
Stembleeding, Rootwilt, Tanjore wilt - Management with special
emphasis on Biocontrol. Value addition - Different products made out
of coconut-Current trends in coconut cultivation(for additional
information only)
b.

RUBBER

Scientific name - Soil - Site selection - Important varieties/Clones Nursery - Cultivation practices - Land Preparation - Planting clones
Planting distance, Pitting and refilling, Type of planting - Cover
cropping and Mulching Manuring - Weeding - Use of rainguard Tapping -Plant protection - Pests, Diseases -Abnormal leaf fall, Powdery
mildew, Pink disease-Value addition - Different products made out of
Rubber -Current trends in Rubber and allied industries (for additional
information only)
PEPPER
Scientific name - Soil- Site selection - Important Varieties -Selection Of
mother plants - Raising rooted cuttings -Cultivation practices - Land
Preparation - Planting vines- Spacing - Planting methods - Time of
Planting - Irrigation - Weeding-Under planting - Manuring-Bush
pepper. Plant protection - Pests - Pollu beetle, Marginal gall thrips Diseases - Quick wilt, Anthracnose, Slow decline. Value addition Different products made out of Pepper - Current trends (for additional
information only)
6.

Crop production Technology of Fruits

BANANA
Scientific name - Soil - Site selection - Important Varieties - Sucker
selection and preparation of suckers for planting - Cultivation practices
- Land Preparation - Planting suckers - Spacing - time of Planting -

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Irrigation - Weeding - Intercropping - Manuring -Tissue culture

techniques in Banana -Leaf Banana cultivation. Plant protection - Pests
Pseudostem weevil, Rhizome weevil, Aphids, mealy bugs, skipper
butterfly- Diseases Bunchy top, Banana bract mosaic (Kokkan) Sigatoka - Rhizome rot-Panama wilt. Value addition- Different products
made out of Banana current trends in banana cultivation (for additional
information only)
MANGO
Scientific name - Soil -Season - Site selection - Propagation - Important
Varieties - Cultivation practices - Land Preparation - Planting - Spacing
-Time of Planting-Irrigation-Weeding- Intercropping - Manuring - High
Density Planting in Mango. Plant protection - Pests Stem borer, Mango
Hopper, Nut weevil, Fruit fly-Diseases-Powdery mildew, Anthracnose,
Die back - Physiological disorders -Value addition - Different products
made out of Mango -Current trends in Mango cultivation (for additional
information only)
PINE APPLE
Scientific name - Soil - Site selection - Important Varieties - Sucker
selection and preparation of suckers for planting - Cultivation practicesLand Preparation - planting suckers - Spacing - Time of Planting Irrigation - Weeding - Flowering induction - Manuring -Plant protection
- Pests Mealy bug - Diseases Leaf spot - Value addition-Different
products made out of Pineapple.

7.

Crop Production Technology of Flowers

ANTHURIUM
Varieties - Propagation - Planting and Potting media preparation Fertilizer recommendation - Inter cultural Operation - Plant Protection
- Harvesting.
ORCHID
Varieties - Propagation- Planting and Potting media preparationManuring - Intercultural Operation - Plant Protection - Harvesting.
ROSE
Classification Varities-Propagation - Planting and Potting mixture
preparation - Manuring Pruning- Plant protection -Harvesting Packing and Marketing - Value added product Rose oil.
JASMINE
Soil - Climate- Important Cultivars and varities - Propagation Rooting
Hormone - Land preparation - Spacing - Manuring - Irrigation - Pruning
- Intercultural operation - Weed control - Pest and diseases - Value
added products - Jasmine oil.

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VHSE Curriculum

8.

Importance of Medicinal Plants in Kerala

Introduction Common medicinal plants cultivated in Kerala with their

common name, parts used, scope of medicinal plant cultivation in
Ayurveda.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
After the completion of two modules, the learner will be able to;
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.1.3

1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.2.4
1.2.5

1.3.1
1.3.2
1.3.3
1.3.4
1.3.5

1.3.6

1.3.7

define agriculture and enumerate its branches and explain

the milestones in Agriculture development in India.
explain the major crops in India and Kerala and calculate the
production and productivity of cultivated crops of Kerala.
enlist the important Agricultural Teaching and Research
Institutions, Extension centers, and Commercial Agri- based
government and semi government organisations.
define Agricultural meteorology, distinguish between
weather and climate.
realise the use of meteorological observatories, handle the
instruments to measure weather elements.
get acquainted with the Automated Weather Stations .
establish the relationship between weather forecasting and
cultivation of crops.
analyse the rainfall data and identifies the monsoon seasons
in Kerala, relate it with agricultural seasons and prepare the
crop calendar.
explain soil profiles with relevant diagrams and experience
soil structure and texture.
mention soils of Kerala and suggests crops suitable for each
type of soil.
explore and explain the problem soils in Kerala and their
reclamation.
analyse soil acidity, soil alkalinity and apply remedial
measures such as liming and amelioration respectively.
observe, make and present reports on the types of soil
erosion and practise agronomic and engineering measures of
soil and water conservation.
explore and make reports on the causes of soil pollution,
check factors affecting soil health hazards and apply
measures to maintain soil health and interpret the
information in a Soil Health Card.
familiarise remote sensing, GIS and its application.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

1.3.8

1.3.9
1.3.10

1.3.11
1.3.12

1.3.13
1.3.14

1.3.15

1.3.16
1.4.1

1.4.2

1.4.3

1.5.1
1.5.2
1.5.3
1.5.4

Page - 66

define Tillage and its types and share its objectives, and
effects of tillage in soil and classify tillage implements into
primary and secondary and operate them.
describe small farm machinery and practise them in needy
contexts.
explain plant nutrition, enlist the essential macro and micro
elements, the functions, deficiency and toxicity symptoms of
N,P, K.
classify manures and fertilizers and identify the need of
Integrated Nutrient Management.
calculate Fertilizer Requirement using scientific methods,
using soft wares like Fertulator and practise different
methods of fertilizer application
prepare soil samples for testing, interpret the results and
give recommendations based on the result.
apply different methods for soil fertility evaluation such as
soil testing, plant tissue analysis by DRIS method, critical
level in plants, rapid tissue test, indicator plants and
biological method.
explain and prepare notes on soil based Plant Nutrient
Management Information System, recognize the need of
organic farming and its role in sustainable crop production,
nutrient management, disease and pest management.
realize the need and significance of sustainable agriculture.
define irrigation, methods of irrigation such as surface, sub
surface, micro- irrigation, and detail special methods such
as drip, sprinkler, mist, bubbler and pivot.
explain fertigation, chemigation and recognizes quality of
irrigation water and its management, drainage and its
importance in crop production.
describe rain water harvesting techniques and structuresferrocement tank, percolation pits and other emerging
innovative models.
identify types of propagation define seed and enumerate the
qualities of good seed, classes of seed, sowing methods.
practise sexual propagation in plants, seed-bed preparation,
vegetable seedling production, protray seedling production.
practise seed testing- methods of testing germination
percentage.
practise asexual propagation methods in plants- cutting,
layering, budding, grafting, tissue culture and vegetable
grafting.

VHSE Curriculum

1.6.1

define pests, classify pests, describes plant diseases, their

common symptoms and pathogens, weeds- uses and
harmful effects, dry land and wet land weeds.
1.6.2 explain plant protection methods, Biopharmacy, plant
protection chemicals and their formulation and enlist
pesticides in use with emphasis on new generation and
banned pesticides.
1.6.3 identify plant protection equipments, weed management, Ecrop doctor and visit crop diagnostic centres.
2.1.1 explain different agronomic classes of crops and list out their
examples
2.2.1 define different farming systems, their merits and demerits,
with emphasis on IFS
2.2.2 explain mono cropping, crop rotation, intercropping, mixed
cropping, ratoon cropping, multi tier cropping, relay
cropping, mixed farming and home stead farming.
2.2.3 define IFS and share its goals and components, advantages
and disadvantages of different IFS models.
2.3.1 describe the climatic requirements, suitable soil and season
for rice cultivation.
2.3.2 explain the varieties of rice, recently released varieties and
geographic indexing.
2.3.3 identify and prepare notes on seed rate, seed treatment,
nursery preparation (advanced and recently developed
techniques) transplanting and spacing.
2.3.4 describe and suggest fertilizer recommendation for effective
rice cultivation.
2.3.5 list out common weeds in rice fields, insect pests, diseases
and their management.
2.3.6 identify and prepare notes on Kole, Pokkali, and Kaippad
cultivation of rice.
2.3.7 describe SRI (System of Rice Intensification Technique)
2.3.8 explore and explain scope of farm mechanization in rice
cultivation and post harvest handling
2.3.9 list out the important rice research stations in Kerala and
make notes on current trends in rice production.
2.3.10 describe the varities, climatic requirements, suitable soil and
season for tapioca cultivation.
2.3.11 identify and explain propagation and mini set tapioca
propagation techniques.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

2.3.12 explain the process of preparation of land, describe the

season and planting, manuring and irrigation, inter cropping
related to tapioca cultivation.
2.3.13 list out insect pests, diseases and their management in
tapioca and enlist the bio pesticides made from tapioca.
2.3.14 familiarise with the current trends in tapioca production.
2.3.15 enlist fodder crops such as Guinea Grass, Hybrid Napier,
Congo Signal Grass, Subabul, Agathi and Stylo with
reference to important varieties , planting material, planting
methods, fertilizer recommendations, harvesting and yield.
2.3.16 mention techniques of fodder preservation-Silo, Silage and
Haylage.
2.4.1 identify and prepare chart on Solanaceous vegetables such
as brinjal, tomato, chilli, in terms of their varieties, seed rate,
spacing, manuring, pests and diseases.
2.4.2 identify and prepare chart on Cucurbitaceous vegetables
such as bitter gourd, snake gourd, bottle gourd, ash gourd,
pumpkins and gherkins in terms of varieties, seed rate,
spacing, manuring, pests and diseases.
2.4.3 identify and prepare chart on cool season vegetables such as
carrot, cabbage, cauliflower in terms of their varieties, seed
rate, spacing, manuring, pests and diseases.
2.4.4 identify and prepare chart on amaranthus, bhindi, cowpea in
terms of their varieties, seed rate, spacing, manuring, pests
and diseases.
2.4.5 practise kitchen gardening and terrace cultivation.
2.4.6 familiarize the current trends in vegetable cultivation and its
value addition.
2.5.1 identify and explain the scientific name of coconut, soil
suitable for coconut crop production and site selection.
2.5.2 list out important coconut cultivars, hybrids and coconut
nursery techniques.
2.5.3 explain the cultivation practices of coconut in terms of land
preparation, planting seedlings, spacing, planting systems,
time of planting, irrigation, weeding, manuring and
intercropping.
2.5.4 explain the techniques for drought management such as
husk burial, mulching, and use of cover crops and green
manure crops.
2.5.5 explain plant protection of coconut plants- identify pests,
diseases and explain their management with special
emphasis on biocontrol.

Page - 68

VHSE Curriculum

2.5.6
2.5.7
2.5.8
2.5.9

2.5.10

2.5.11
2.5.12
2.5.13
2.5.14

2.5.15
2.5.16
2.5.17

2.6.1
2.6.2
2.6.3
2.6.4

2.6.5
2.6.6
2.6.7

familiarize the current trends in coconut cultivation and its

value addition.
identify and explain the scientific name of rubber, soil
suitable for rubber crop production and site selection.
enlist the important varieties, clones of rubber and their
nursery.
explain the cultivation practices of rubber in terms of land
preparation, planting clones, cover cropping and mulching,
weeding, manuring, use of rain guard and tapping.
explain plant protection of rubber- identify pests, diseases
with special emphasis on abnormal leaf fall, powdery
mildew, pink disease.
familiarise the current trends in rubber and allied industries,
different products and their value addition.
state the scientific name of pepper and explain soil suitable
for pepper crop production and site selection.
list out important varieties of pepper, describes the selection
of mother plants, and raising rooted cuttings.
explain the cultivation practices of pepper in terms of land
preparation, planting vines, spacing, planting methods, time
of planting, irrigation, weeding, manuring and
underplanting.
practise bush pepper propagation.
explain plant protection of pepper, lists out its pests and
diseases.
familiarize the current trends in pepper cultivation and list
out different products made out of pepper and its value
addition.
identify the scientific name of banana, soil suitable for banana
crop production and site selection.
list out the important varieties of banana.
describe sucker selection and preparation of suckers for
planting in banana.
explain the cultivation practices of banana in terms of land
preparation, planting, spacing, time of planting, irrigation,
weeding, manuring and intercropping.
familiarise the tissue culture techniques in banana and leaf
banana cultivation.
explain the plant protection of banana, its pests and diseases.
list out different products made out of banana and its value
addition.

Page - 69

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

2.6.8
2.6.9
2.6.10

2.6.11
2.6.12
2.6.13

2.6.14
2.6.15
2.6.16

2.6.17
2.6.18
2.7.1

2.7.2

2.7.3

2.7.4

2.8.1

Page - 70

familiarize with the scientific name of mango, soil suitable

for mango crop cultivation, season and site selection.
list out the important varieties of mango and their
propagation.
familiarize with the cultivation practices of mango in terms
of land preparation, planting, spacing, time of planting,
irrigation, weeding, manuring and intercropping.
familiarize with the high density planting in mango.
familiarize with plant protection in Mango and list pest and
diseases.
familiarize with the current trends in mango cultivation and
list out different products made out of mango and its value
addition.
familiarize with the scientific name of pine apple, soil
suitable for pine apple cultivation and site selection.
list out the important varieties of pine apple and explain
sucker selection and preparation of suckers for planting.
familiarize with the cultivation practices of pine apple in
terms of land preparation, planting, spacing, time of planting,
irrigation, weeding, manuring and flowering induction.
familiarize with the plant protection of pine apple, and list
pests and diseases.
list out different products made out of pine apple and its
value addition.
describe the varieties of Anthurium, and its propagation
methods, planting and potting media preparation, fertilizer
recommendation, intercultural operation, plant protection,
harvesting.
describe the varieties of orchid, and its propagation, planting
and potting media preparation manuring, intercultural
operation, plant protection, harvesting.
familiarize with the classification varieties of rose, its
propagation methods planting and potting mixture
preparation, manuring, pruning, plant protection, harvesting,
packing and marketing, value added products and rose oil.
familiarize with the cultivars, varieties propagation of jasmine,
rooting hormones, land preparation, spacing, manuring,
irrigation, pruning, inter cultural operation, weed control, pests,
diseases, yield and value added products and Jasmine oil.
familiarize with the importance of medicinal plants in
Kerala, list them out with their common name, parts used
and scope of medicinal plants in Ayurveda.

VHSE Curriculum

Scheme of Work
Sl. Month
No.

Unit Name

Periods No.Unit
Weight

1 June

Introductory Agriculture
Agrometerology

16
18

2. July

Soil Health Management

80

3. August

Soil Health Management

Irrigation Technology
Plant Propagation Technique

4
42
26

4. September Plant Propagation Technique

Crop Pest Management

54
26

5. October

Crop Pest Management

Agronomic Classification of Crops

74
6

6. November Agronomic Classification of Crops

Farming System
Crop production Technology of
field crops

1
16
63

7. December Crop production Technology of

field crop
Crop production Technology of
Vegetables

17

8. January

9. February

10 March

Crop production Technology

of Vegetable
Crop production Technology
Plantation crops
Crop production Technology of
fruit crops

51

65
6

Crop production Technology of

fruit crops
Crop production Technology of
flowers

34

Crop production Technology of

flowers
Importance of Medicinal Plants in
Kerala

14

46

12

Page - 71

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

COURSE STRUCTURE
This course consists of 4 modules such as:
Sl .No

Name of Module

Total periods

Agri Field Techniques

340

Crop Production Technology

340

Integrated Pest and Disease Management 340

Hi Tech Farming

340

CLASS ROOM ACTIVITIES

Seminar

Group discussion

Quiz

Preparation of Posters and Charts

Project and workshops

Exhibitions

Multimedia presentation

Panel discussion

Interview with invited experts/ farmers in the classroom

Workshop

Role play

General discussion

Brainstorming

Debate

Slide show

Assignment

Animated CDs

PRACTICAL ACTIVITIES

Page - 72

Indoor practical work in labs and outside field

Field visits

Production cum training centre

On the job training

Interaction with successful farmers at the farm site

Curriculum oriented case studies

Demonstration

VHSE Curriculum

ON THE JOB TRAINING

OJT refers to that component of vocational curricula which takes place
in a real job situation under the supervision of an expert or in- plant
supervisor. It provides participation in the actual production of goods
and services. It prepares the student psychologically in developing
entrepreneurship qualities.
It helps in continuous evaluation of the student's work and knowledge.
The student is exposed to the latest technology and equipments. The
student finds the real feelings in taking instructions from the supervisor.
It provides the student overall exposure and the use of material and
machinery. It leads to increased production of goods and services to the
employers at less cost.
Time

: End of each module

Duration

: 15 days per year

List of possible OJT Centres

GENERAL

Various institutions under Kerala Agricultural University

(Colleges, research stations)

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)

Krishi Bhavans

Central Government Institutions like CTCRI, CPCRI, IISR etc.

VFPCK centres

State Horticulture Mission

Master Farmer's Fields

Various Commodity Boards, Government of Kerala

District Seed Farms

Extension Training Centres

Various NGOs like Thanal, PASSS, Mithra Niketan, MSSRF

Various Private Nurseries (Atmanilayam Nursery Gardens

Cheruvarakkonam,Kuzhippallam Botanical Gardens Nellimoodu,
Beena Nursery Vithura, Dreamland Garden Mukkoodu, kollam).

Regional Agricultural Training and Testing Centres

Agro service centres

Soil testing labs

Safal markets

HORTICROP

Private Retail Malls

Page - 73

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

District wise OJT Centers

1.

2.

3.

Page - 74

Thiruvananthapuram

Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanical Garden and Research

Institute (JNTBGRI), Palode

Biotechnology and Model Floriculture Centre (BMFC),

Kazhakkuttom

Rubber Board

Various NGOs like Thanal, PASSS, Mithra Niketan

Various Private Nurseries (Atmanilayam Nursery Gardens

Cheruvarakkonam, Kuzhippallam Botanical Gardens
Nellimoodu, Beena Nursery Vithura)

VFPCK - Thiruvananthapuram

RATTC - Vellayani

Kollam

KVK Sadanandapuram, Kottarakkara

FSRS Sadanandapuram, Kottarakkara

District Seed Farm, Kottukkal, Anchal

State Seed Farm, Kottarakkara

Cashew Farm, Kottarakkara

Extensiion Training Centre (ETC), Kottarakkara

Agro Industries, Neduvathoor, Kottarakkara

Institute of Watershed Development Management Kerala

(IWDMK), Chadayamangalam

Agro Fruits, Elambal, Punalur

Dreamland Garden, Mukkoodu, Kollam

Soil Testing Lab, Kureepuzha

Kripa Mushroom Farm, Kulakkada

Biogas Training Centre, KNNMVHSS (AC & ABC),

Pavithreswaram, Puthur.

Pathanamthitta

Pazhakulam Agroservice Society (PASS), Adoor

State Seed Farm, Munnalam, Adoor

Sugarcane Breeding Farm, Kadakkad, Pandalam

Bodhana Social Service Society, Thiruvalla

KVK, Thelliyoor, Pathanamthitta

Seed Farm, Pandalam

VHSE Curriculum

4.

5.

6.

Alappuzha

CPCRI, Kayamkulam

Rice Research Station (RRS), Monkombu

Seed Farm, Veeyapuram

Bee keeping and Training Centre, Kottalammude

KVK, Kayamkulam

State Seed Farm, Mavelikkara

RARS, Kayamkulam

Kottayam

District Agriculture Farm, Kozha

KVK, Kumarakom

RARS, Kumarakom

VFPCK, Ettumanoor

JEYES Farm, Neendoor

Chaithanya (NGO), Kottayam

Idukki

7.

Bapuji KVK, Santhanpara

Cardomom Research Station, Myladumpara
VFPCK, Thodupuzha, Adimali, Munnar, Kanthalloor,
Vattavada

Spice Board, Idukki

Ernakulam

Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Research Station (AMPRS),

Odakkali.

Pineapple Research Station, Vazhakkulam

Coconut Development Board, Neriamangalam

Spices Board, Kochi

Nadukkara Agroprocessing Society (NAPC), Nadukkara

RATTC, Vytilla

Kinfra Park, Nellad

Parasite Breeding Station, Vytilla

Hafi orchids, Kalamassery

Sevashram (NGO), Ankamaly

Aiswarya Farm (NGO, Kalady

Grandma Pickles, Muvattupuza.

Page - 75

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

8.

9.

10.

Thrissur

KVK, Mannuthy

State Biocontrol Lab, Mannuthy

Cashew Research Station, Madakkathara

Pineapple Research Station, Madakkathara

Banana Research Station, Kannara

Central Training Institute, Mannuthy

State Seed Farm, Pananchery and Nadavarambu

National Rose Garden, Vellanikkara

TEEOSE Gardens, Madakkathara

RAYIRATH Gardens, Pattikkad

Palakkad

IRTC, Mundur

Integrated Seed Development Farm, Eruthiampathy

Precision Farm, Perumatti

Sugarcane Breeding Research Institute (Sub center), Puthur

Seed Processing Plants, VFPCK, Alathoor

High Tech Diary Farm, Malampuzha,Dhoni

Malappuram

11.

12.

Kozhikode

Koothali Farm

IISR Kozhikode

KVK, Peruvannamoozhy, Kozhikode

Fruit Processing Center, Balussery

Kannur

Page - 76

RARS, Aanakkayam

KVK Kannur
Pepper Research Station, Panniyur
District Agricultural Farm, Thaliparamabu
Private Nurseries
Coconut Nursery, Polayad
Kinathy Farms, Kuthiparambu
Soil Testing Lab, Thaliparambu
Seed Farm, Vengad
Germplasm collection center, Kannur
Agromachinery Center, Chelod

VHSE Curriculum

13.

RAIDCO, Kannur.

Kasaragod

14.

High Tech Farms, Pinarayi

CPCRI, Kasaragod
KVK, Kasaragod
College of Agriculture, Padannakkad
RARS, Pilicode
Agricultural Farm, Nileswar
State Seed Farm, Karanthakad, Kasaragod
Cashew Progeny Orchard, Gwalimukham
Private nurseries
Jenny flowers, Kasaragod
Mechirath Nursery, Kasaragod

Wayanad

MSSRF, Kalpille
RARS, Ambalavayal
KVK, Ambalavayal
Wayanad Social Service Society, Mananathavady
Private Nurseries
Hitech Farms

CERTIFICATION OF SKILLS IN EACH MODULE

Module I

Certificate in Agri Field Techniques

Module II

Certificate in Crop Production Technology

Module 3

Certificate in Integrated Pest and Disease

Management

Module 4

Certificate in High tech farming

OVERVIEW OF MODULE - 1
The first module Agri field Techniques aims to introduce the very
basic concepts needed in all agriculture and related job roles. This
module goes through basic Agri field techniques, weather advisory
services, techniques in soil health management, micro irrigation
techniques and fertigation, advanced plant propagation techniques
including vegetable grafting and basic aspects of crop pest
management.

Page - 77

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Expected Skills

Understands the major crops in India and Kerala.

Identifies the use of meteorological equipments.

Observes and Classifies the major soils of Kerala, macro and micro
elements, their deficiency symptoms, manures and fertilizers.

Understands the need of organic farming and its role in

sustainable crop production.

Understands different methods of irrigation.

Understands the rain harvesting techniques.

Applies and
propagation.

Identifies major pests diseases and weeds of Kerala.

Applies and practices pest management measures.

Unit

Page - 78

practices

methods

Name of the Unit

of

sexual

and

asexual

Hours

Introductory agriculture

16

Agro meteorology

18

Soil health management

84

Irrigation technology

42

Plant propagation techniques

80

Crop pest management

100

Total

340

Learning Outcomes

Slide show with photographs (W)

Live specimens (I)
Establishment of crop museum (G)
Bar diagram showing comparison
(G),
Map of India and Kerala showing
area of major crops under cultivation
(G)
Productivity calculation (I)

General discussion (W),

Brainstorming (W)
Powerpoint presentation (G)
Time line (W)

Suggested Activities

List of crops in tabular form

Collection
Field Diary
Prepared bar diagram
Assignment reportcalculation of productivity

Notes
Discussion points with
consolidation
Tree diagram
Quiz

Assessment

( periods)

Important Agricultural Institutions- The learner will be able to :

teaching and research institutions, enlist the important Agricultural Map of Kerala and India(major Match Board
centres)
extension centres and agri based govt/
Teaching and Research Institutions,
Table
semi govt organisations.
Extension centers, and Commercial
SKILLS
Agri- based government and semi
Identification
government organisations.
Observation
Inference

Major crops in India and Kerala, Area, The learner will be able to :
production and productivity of major calculate the production and
crops in Kerala
productivity of major crops in
SKILLS:
Kerala
Observation
Classification
Communication
Practical skill

Unit :

Agriculture-definition, branches, The learner will be able to :

milestones in agriculture development in define agriculture and enumerate its
India
branches and explain the milestones
SKILLS:
in Agriculture development in India
Observation
Tabulation
I T skills

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 79

Learning Outcomes

Page - 80

weather forecasting, Crop seasons in In- The learner will be able to :

dia and Kerala, Monsoons in Kerala
establish the relationship between
weather forecasting and cultivation
SKILLS
of crops.
Observation
analyse the rainfall data and identify
Classification
the monsoon seasons in Kerala,
Analysis
relate it with agricultural seasons
Tabulation
and prepare the crop calendar.

microclimate, meteorological observa- The learner will be able to :

tory and instruments to measure weather realise the use of meteorological
observatories,
handle
the
elements, Automated weather stations
instruments
to
measure
weather
SKILLS
elements.
Observation

get acquainted with the Automated

Classification
Weather Stations.
Instrumental skills

Suggested Activities

Assessment

( periods)

Animated CDs (W)

Collection of weather data
Visit
Model of observatory & instruments

General Discussion (W)

Collection of rainfall data, analysis
and presentation (G)
Notes
Calendar preparation of major crops
of the locality (G)

Class test
Graph
Presentation report
Match Board

Notes
Quiz with power point
Presentation
Report
viva-voce

Quiz
General discussion (W)
Animated CDs (W)
Assignment
Paper cuttings of daily weather report Presentation
(G)
Collection of weather data (I)

Unit :

Meteorology-agricultural meteorology- ThThe learner will be able to :

definition,
define Agricultural meteorology,
weather and climate
distinguish between weather and
climate.
SKILLS
Observation
Communication
differentiation

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

The learner will be able to :

explain soil profiles with relevant
diagrams and experience soil
structure and texture.
mention soils of Kerala and suggests
crops suitable to each type of soil.
explore and explain the problem
soils in Kerala and their reclamation.

Learning Outcomes
Diagrams (G)
Power point presentation (W)
Map of Kerala (G)
Chart preparation (I)
Collection of samples (I)

Suggested Activities

Preparation of Model
Class Test
Notes
viva -voce
Presentation

Assessment

( periods)

Soil erosion-definition, types of erosion- The learner will be able to :

water erosion- Wind erosion- Soil and observe, make and present reports Animated CDs (W),
water conservation-agronomic meaon the type of soil erosion and Power point presentation (W)
sures- mulching, contour farming, strip
practice agronomic and engineering
cropping, alley cropping, multitier cropmeasure of soil and water
ping, mixed cropping, intercropping, crop
conservation.
rotation, grass/fodder cultivation, cover
cropping, zero tillage, biofencing/ vegetative fencing. Engineering measuresPercolation pits/ soak pits, contour
bunding, making basins around trees,
trenches, bench terracing, check dams,

Poster preparation
Presentation
Exercise planting

Class test
Animated CDs (W)
Demonstration of Specimens of Presentation
liming materials and ameliorants (G)
Collection of soil sample (G)
pH analysis and correction (G)

Unit :

Soil acidity- liming materials , soil alka- The learner will be able to :
linity and its amelioration
analyse soil -acidity, soil -alkalinity and
SKILLS
applies remedial measures such as
Observation
liming and amelioration respectively.
Analysis
Classification
Instrumental skills

Soil profile, physical properties-soil structure and texture , Soils of Kerala-problem soils of Kerala
SKILL
Observation
Identification
Interpretaton
Analysis
inference

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 81

Page - 82
CD shows (W)
CD (KAU)(W)
slide show(W)
Group discussion (W)
Field preparation
Visit to RAIDCO, KAMCO,
Agroindustries,
Karmasena,
Agroservice Centres

Tillage-definition and objectives, types The learner will be able to :

and effects of tillage in soil- zero tillage, define Tillage and its types and share
minimum tillage, primary and secondary
its objectives, and effects of tillage in
tillage implements, small farm machinsoil and classify tillage implements into
ery
primary and secondary and operates
them.
SKILLS
describe small farm machinery and
Observation
practise them in needy contexts.
Classification

Analysis"

CD show(W),
videos showing calamities (W)
Collection of soil health card (I)
Geotextiling (G)
strip cropping (G)
Cultivation of vetiver (G)

Suggested Activities

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Soil pollution- causes, practices to main- The learner will be able to :

tain soil health, Soil quality monitoring- explore and make reports on the
Soil health card, Remote Sensing and
causes of soil pollution , check
GIS.
factors affecting soil health hazards
Observation
and apply measures to maintain soil
Analysis
health and interpret the information
in a Soil Health Card, familiarise
collection
remote sensing and GIS.

gabions, inward and outward terracing,

brushwood check dams, gabion
checkdams, artificial water holding
structures and renovation of existing
funds, weirs, sidewalls, geotextiles
SKILLS
Observation
Communication
I T skills

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

Notes
Presentation
Operation of Tillage
implements
Report

Poster Preparation
Presentation

Assessment

( periods)

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Soil fertility evaluation- soil testing, plant

tissue analysis-DRIS methods, critical
levels in plants, rapid tissue tests, indicator plants, biological methods of soil fertility evaluation, Soil based plant nutrient
management information system, organic
farming and sustainable agriculture
SKILLS
Observation
Analysis
Instrumental skills
Practical skills
The learner will be able to :
prepare soil samples for testing, interpret
the results and give recommendations
based on the result.
apply different methods for soil fertility
evaluation such as soil testing, plant tissue
analysis by DRIS method.
identify critical level of nutrients in plants
and collects data regarding biological
methods to evaluate soil fertility such as
rapid tissue tests, indicator plants.
explain and prepare notes on soil based
Plant Nutrient Management Information
System, recognize the need of organic
farming and its role in sustainable crop
production, nutrient management, disease
and pest management.
realize the need and significance of
sustainable agriculture.

Plant Nutrition- Essential elements-macro- The learner will be able to :

micro, Functions, Deficiency and toxicity explain plant nutrition, enlist the essential
symptoms of N, P, K, Manures and fertilizmacro and micro elements, the functions
ers-classification, Organic manures- bulky
deficiency and toxicity symptoms of N,P,K.
and concentrated- FYM, compost, different composting methods, green manuring. classify manures and fertilizers and
identifies the need of Integrated Nutrient
Chemical fertilizers-straight, complex,
Management.
mixed fertilizers, biofertilizers- examples and
use. Integrated Nutrient Management, calculate Fertilizer Requirement using
Methods of fertilizer application, Calculascientific methods, using soft- wares like
tion of fertilizer requirement, KAU
Fertulator and practise different methods
Fertulator
of fertilizer application
SKILL
Observation
Classification
Analysis

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

Animated CD (W)
Charts (G)
CD show (W)
Group Discussion (G)
Familiarising with KAU fertulator
(G)
Collection and identification (I)
visit to fertilizer Depot (W)
Visit to farmers field (W)
Fertilizer calculation using formula
(I)
Field application (G)

Notes
Response to interactive
media
Enlist the commonly used
manures&fertilizers
Class Test
Presentation
Collection
field diary
Report
Calculation of fertilizers

Assessment

Videos (W)
Soil sampling
Visit to research stations
Photographs (W)
Power point presentation (W)
On field experience
Videos on organic farming (W)
Collection of soil sample and
sending to soil testing lab (G)
Visit to soil testing lab (W)
Field visit (W)

Suggested Activities

( periods)

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 83

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Page - 84

The learner will be able to :

identify types of propagation define
seed and enumerate the qualities of
good seed, classes of seed, sowing
methods.
practise sexual propagation in plants,
seed-bed preparation, vegetable
seedling production, protray seedling
production.
practise seed testing- methods of testing
germination percentage.

Animated CD (W)
Collection of labels of different
seed classes (G)
Flow chart. (I)
Selection of seeds having good
quality from a lot through
observation (G)
Field experience (G)
Seed bed preparation (G)
Methods of testing germination
percentage (I)

Rainwater harvesting-techniques and The learner will be able to :

structures-ferrocement tank, percolation describe rain water harvesting techniques Videos and animated CD (W)
pits(emerging innovative models)
and structures-ferrocement tank, Working models (G)
SKILLS
percolation pits and other emerging Visit to nearby RW harvesting
Reference
innovative models.
structures (W)
Communication

Types of propagation-sexual propogationseed- definition, qualities of good seed,

classes of seed, sowing methods, seed bed
preparation, vegetable seedling production,
portray seedling production, seed testingmethods of testing germination percentage
SKILLS
Observation
Communication
classification

Assessment

( periods)

Notes
Presentation
Exercise
Report
Notes
Response to interactive
media
Enlist the commonly used
seeds
Class Test
Presentation
Collection
field diary
Report

Presentation
Exercise
Report

Installation of irrigation
Animated CD (W)
units
Model (G)
Installation of irrigation units (G) Notes
Field visit to established irrigation
units (W)

Suggested Activities

Fertigation, chemigation, quality of irriga- The learner will be able to :

tion water and its management, drainage- explain fertigation, chemigation and Discussion (G)
importance in crop production
recognize quality of irrigation water and
SKILLS
its management, drainage and its
Observation
importance in crop production
Communication

Irrigation-definition, methods of irrigation- The learner will be able to :

surface, subsurface (definition and examples define irrigation, methods of irrigation such
only), micro irrigation, special methods-in
as surface, sub -surface, micro- irrigation,
detail (drip, sprinkler, mist, bubbler, pivot)
and detail special methods such as drip,
SKILLS
sprinkler, mist, bubbler and pivot.
Observation
communication

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Learning Outcomes

Unit :
Suggested Activities

Plant protection methods, Biopharmacy, The learner will be able to :

plant protection chemicals and different for- explain plant protection methods,
mulations (emphasis to new generation
Biopharmacy, plant protection
pesticides), plant protection equipments,
chemicals and their formulation and
weed management, E- Crop Doctor, Crop
enlist pesticides in use with emphasis
diagnostic centres.
on new generation and banned
Observation
pesticides.
Identification
identify plant protection equipments,
weed management, E- crop doctor and
Classification
visit crop diagnostic centres.
Reference skill
Practical skills

Pest-definition, classification with ex- The learner will be able to :

amples, plant disease-common symptoms define pests, classify pests, describe
and pathogens, weeds-uses and harmful efplant diseases, their common symptoms
fects, dryland and wetland weeds
and pathogens, weeds- uses and
SKILLS
harmful effects, dry land and wet land
Identification
weeds
Communication

Discussion (W)
Power Point Presentation (W)
Field visit (W)
Preparation of herbarium (I)
Collection of live specimens (I)

Notes
Herbarium
Insect box

Notes
Exercise

Assessment

( periods)

Charts
Discussion (W)
Class test
Animated CDs (W)
Exercise
Familiarisation with different
formulations (W)
Power point presentation (W)
Familiarisation of E-crop doctor from
websites (G)
Visit to pesticide shop (W)
Preparation of botanical pesticides and
fungicides (G)
Familiarisation of plant protection
equipments- working and maintenance
(G)
Setting up of crop diagnostic centres
in school (W)

Asexual propagation methods- cutting, lay- The learner will be able to :

ering, budding, grafting, tissue culture, veg- practise asexual propagation methods Animated CD (W)
etable grafting
in plants- cutting, layering, budding, Demonstration (I)
Observation
grafting, tissue culture and vegetable
grafting.
Classification
Practical skills
Instrumental skills

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 1 : AGRI FIELD TECHNIQUES

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 85

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

PRACTICAL ACTIVITIES- MODULE I

Page - 86

Live specimens

establishment of crop museum

Bar diagram showing comparison

Map of India and Kerala showing maximum and minimum

temperature

Area of major crops under cultivation

Productivity calculation

Map of Kerala and India(major institutions)

Table of important institutions related to agriculture

Collection of weather data

Visit to observatory

Model of observatory & instruments

Notes based on visit

Calendar preparation of major crops of the locality

Chart preparation soil profile and soils of Kerala

Soil sample collection

pH analysis and amelioration of problem soil

Geotextiling

Strip cropping

Cultivation of vetiver

Collection of soil sample and sending to soil testing lab.

Visit to soil testing lab

Field preparation with small farm machinary

Visit to RAIDCO, KAMCO, Agroindustries, Karmasena,

Agroservice Centres

Collection of Live specimens

Collection and identification of fertilizers

Visit to fertilizer Depot

Visit to farmers field

VHSE Curriculum

Fertilizer calculation using formula

Field application

Field visit

Installation of irrigation units

Field visit to established irrigation units

Working models

Visit to nearby rain water harvesting structures

Selection of seeds having good quality from a lot through

observation

Field experience

Seed bed preparation

Methods of testing germination percentage

Preparation of herbariums

Visit to Pesticide shop

Familiarisation with various formulations

Preparation of Botanical pesticides and Bio pesticides

Familiarisation with Plant Protection equipments using live

models

Setting up of crop diagnostic centers at School

OVERVIEW OF MODULE - 2
Crop Production Technology
The second module Crop Production Technology gives importance on
cultivation aspects of major crops of Kerala. This module imparts
capacity of crop production techniques including their latest trends.
Familiarization of different cropping systems including the Integrated
Farming System is also aimed at.

Expected Skills

Identifies different classes of crops

Observes and understands different farming systems

Understands the different crop production technologies of field

crops like rice, tapioca and fodder crops.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Applies and practices different crop production technologies of

vegetables

Understands the different crop production technologies of

coconut, rubber and pepper

Understands the different crop production technologies of fruit

plants like mango and applies in plants like banana and pine
apple

Familiarise with the different crop production technologies of

ornamental flowers like orchid, anthurium, jasmine and rose.

Familiarise with different medicinal plants of economic

importance

Unit No Name of the Units

Hours

Classification of crops

Farming system

16

Crop production technology of field crops

and fodder crops

80

Crop production technology of vegetables

60

Crop production technology of Plantation Crops

65

Crop production technology of fruits

40

Crop production technology of Flowers

60

Importance of medicinal plants in Kerala

12

Total

340

Page - 88

Learning Outcomes

Unit :
Suggested Activities

Farm visit (W)

Collection of photos and paper cuttings (I)
Video show on IFS (W)
General discussion (W)
Role play (G)

The learner will be able to :

define IFS and shares its goals and components,
advantages and disadvantages of different IFS
models

Integrated farming systems

SKILLS
Observation
Classification
Communication
Analysis

Animated CD show (W)

Discussion (G)
Identification of the given layout (G)
Ppt (W)
Field visit (W)

Different types of cropping systems The learner will be able to :

SKILLS
explain mono cropping, crop rotation,
intercropping, mixed cropping, ratoon cropping,
Classification
multi tier cropping, relay cropping, mixed farming,
Analysis
home stead farming.
Observation

Agronomic classification of crops The learner will be able to :

SKILLS
explain different agronomic classes of crops and Interactive session (G)
list out their examples
Observation
Brain storming (W)
Communication
Setting up Crop Cafeteria (G)
Specimen Collection (I)
Herbarium (I)
Seed Collection (I)
Concept - different types of farm- The learner will be able to :
Exhibition (G)
ing system
define different farming systems, their merits and Video showing different farming
SKILLS
demerits, with emphasis on IFS
systems (W)
Observation
Discussion (G)
Classification
Layout preparation and report
Analysis
presentation (G)
Field visit (W)
Debate (G)

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

Unit test
Vocational Diary,
Model preparation
Practical Record
Quiz

Unit test
Vocational Diary
Practical Record
Presentation

Unit test
Vocational Diary
Practical Record
Model preparation

Quiz
Vocational Diary
Practical Record
Table preparation

Assessment

( periods)

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 89

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Page - 90

Crop production technology ofThe learner will be able to :

Tapioca
describe the varieties climatic requirements,
suitable soil and season for tapioca cultivation.
SKILLS
identify and explain propagation and mini sett
Communication
tapioca propagation techniques.
Analysis

explain the process of preparation of land, describe

Inference
the season and planting, manuring and irrigation,
Classification
inter cropping related to tapioca cultivation.
observation
List out insect pests, diseases and their
management in tapioca and enlist the bio
pesticides made from tapioca.
Familiarise the current trends in tapioca production.

Crop production technology of riceThe learner will be able to :

SKILLS
describe the climatic requirements, suitable soil
and season for rice cultivation.
explain the varieties of rice, recently released
Classification
varieties and geographic indexing.
Observation

identify and prepare notes on seed rate, seed

Analysis
treatment, nursery preparation (advanced and recently
developed techniques) transplanting and spacing
describe and suggest fertilizer recommendation
for effective rice cultivation.
List out common weeds in rice fields, insect pests,
diseases and their management.
Identifiy and prepare notes on Kole, Pokkali, and
Kaippad cultivation of rice.
describe SRI (System of Rice Intensification
Technique)
explores and explain scope of farm mechanization
in rice cultivation and post harvest handling
list out the important rice research stations in Kerala
and make notes on current trends in rice production.

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

CDs(CTCRI) (W)
General Discussion (W)
Group discussion (G)
Field visit (W)
Seminar (I)
Planting in trays at school (G)
Interaction with cassava cultivators
(G)

Mapping (G)
General Discussion (W)
CDs (W)
PPT (W)
Group Discussion (G)
Debate (G)
Map of Kerala showing rice research
stations (W)
Interaction with Rice Growers (G)
Field visit (W)
Demonstration (G)
Specimen Collection Album (I)
Field visit (W)

Suggested Activities

Unit test
Quiz
Vocational diary
Practical Record
Collection
Herbarium
Album
Viva voce

Quiz
Unit test
Vocational diary
Seminar report
Exercise

Assessment

( periods)

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Record
Vocational diary
Presentation

Vocational diary
Quiz
Unit test
Table preparation

Quiz
Vocational diary
Herbarium

Power Point Presentation (I)

Field visit (W)
Collection of paper cuttings (I)

General discussion using chart (W)

Video show (W)
PPT (W)
Field visit (W)
Preparing chart (I)
Vegetable carving (G)
Field work (G)

Assessment

( periods)
Suggested Activities

Kitchen gardening and terrace The learner will be able to :

Video show (W)
gardening
Practice kitchen gardening and terrace cultivation. General Discussion (W)
SKILLS
Familiarize current trends in vegetable cultivation Case study (G)
Practical skills
and its value addition.
Observation
Communication

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Fodder crops
Enlist fodder crops such as Guinea Grass, Hybrid
SKILLS
Napier, Congo Signal Grass, Subabul, Agathi and
Stylo with reference to important varieties ,
Observation
planting material, fertilizer recommendations,
Classification
harvesting and yield.
Communication

Mention techniques of fodder preservation-Silo,

Tabulation
Silage and Haylage
Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :
vegetables
Identify and prepare charts Solanaceous
vegetables such as brinjal, tomato, chilli, in terms
SKILLS
of their varieties, seed rate, spacing, manuring,
Observation
insects, pests and diseases.
Classification
Identify cultivation practices of Cucurbitaceous
Analysis
vegetables such as bitter gourd, snake gourd,
Communication
bottle gourd, ash gourd, pumpkins and gherkins in
Creativity skills
terms of varieties, seed rate, spacing, manuring,
insects pests and diseases.
Identify and prepare charts cool season
vegetables such as carrot, cabbage, cauli flower
in terms of their varieties, seed rate, spacing,
manuring, insects, pests and diseases.
identify and prepare chart on amaranthus, bhindi,
cowpea in terms of their varieties, seed rate,
spacing, manuring, pests and diseases.

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 91

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Page - 92

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

rubber
Identify and explain the scientific name of rubber,
SKILLS
soil suitable for rubber crop production and site
selection
Observation

Enlist the important varieties, clones of rubber and

Analysis
their nursery
Classification

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Coconut
Identify and explain the scientific name of coconut,
SKILLS
soil suitable for coconut crop production and site
selection
Observation

List out important coconut cultivars hybrids and

Communication
coconut nursery techniques.
Explain the cultivation practices of coconut in
terms of land preparation, planting seedlings,
spacing, planting systems, time of planting,
irrigation, weeding, manuring and intercropping..
Explain the techniques for drought management
such as husk burial, mulching, and use of cover
crops and green manure crops
explain plant protection of coconut plantsidentifies pests, diseases and explain their
management with special emphasis on biocontrol.
Familiarize the current trends in coconut cultivation
and its value addition

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

General discussion using chart (W)

PPT (G)
Video shows (W)
Field visit (W)
Articles and Publications (I)

General discussion using chart (W)

PPT (G)
Video shows (W)
Articles and Publications (I)
Field visit (W)

Suggested Activities

Quiz
Vocational diary
Presentation
Assignment
Viva voce

Quiz
Unit test
Seminar,
paper cuttings
Assignment
Practical records
Viva voce
Exercise

Assessment

( periods)

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

 Explain the cultivation practices of rubber in terms of

land preparation, planting clones, cover cropping and
mulching, weeding, manuring, use of rain guard and
tapping.
familiarize plant protection of rubber- identifies pests,
diseases with special emphasis on abnormal leaf fall,
powdery mildew, pink disease.
Familiarize the current trends in rubber and allied
industries, different products and their value addition.

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

pepper
state the scientific name of pepper and explain soil
SKILLS
suitable for pepper crop production and site selection
Observation
list out important varieties of pepper, describes the
selection of mother plants, and raising rooted cuttings.
Analysis
explain the cultivation practices of pepper in terms of
Classification
land preparation, planting vines, spacing, planting
Communication
methods, time of planting, irrigation, weeding, manuring
Practical work
and underplanting.
practise bush pepper propagation
explain plant protection of pepper, lists out its pests
and diseases.
familiarize the current trends in pepper cultivation and
lists out different product made out of pepper and its
value addition.

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

General discussion using chart (W)

PPT (G)
Video shows (W)
Articles and Publications (I)
Field work

Suggested Activities

Quiz
Vocational diary
Assignment
Paper cuttings

Assessment

( periods)

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 93

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Page - 94

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Mango
Familiarize with the scientific name of mango, soil
SKILLS
suitable for mango crop cultivation, season and site
selection.
Observation
List out the important varieties of Mango and their
Communication
propagation.
Practical skills
Familiarize the cultivation practices of mango in terms
of land preparation, planting, spacing, time of planting,
irrigation, weeding, manuring and intercropping.
Describe the high density planting in mango.
Familiarize with plant protection in Mango and list pest
and diseases.
explain the current trends in mango cultivation and lists
out different products made out of mango and its value
addition.

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Banana
identify and explain the scientific name of banana, soil
SKILLS
suitable for banana crop production and site selection.
Observation
List out the important varieties of banana.
Analysis
Describe sucker selection and preparation of suckers
for planting in banana.
Classification
explain the cultivation practices of banana in terms of
Practical skills
land preparation, planting, spacing, time of planting,
irrigation, weeding, manuring and intercropping.
familiarize the tissue culture techniques in banana and
leaf banana cultivation.
Explain the plant protection of banana, its pests and diseases.
List out different products made out of banana and its
value addition.

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

General discussion using chart (W)

PPT (G)
Video shows (W)
Articles and Publications (I)
Field work (G)
Field Visit (W)

General discussion using chart (W)

PPT (G)
Video shows (W)
Articles and Publications (I)
Field visit (W)
Field work (G)

Suggested Activities

Quiz
Assignment
Unit test
Practical Record
Vocational diary

Quiz
Vocational diary
Unit test
Assignment
Practical Record
Viva voce
Exercise

Assessment

( periods)

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Orchid
Describe the varieties of Orchid, and its propagation
SKILLS
methods, planting and potting media preparation,
Classification
fertilizer recommendation, intercultural operation, plant
protection, harvesting.
Observation
Practical skills
Communication

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Anthurium
Describe the varieties of Anthurium, and its
SKILLS
propagation methods, planting and potting media
Observation
preparation, fertilizer recommendation, intercultural
operation, plant protection, harvesting.
Classification
Practical skills
Communication

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

Pine apple
Familiarizes with the scientific name of pine apple, soil
SKILLS
suitable for pine apple cultivation, and site selection.
Communication
List out the important varieties of pine apple and explain
pine apple sucker selection and preparation of suckers
Analysis
for planting.
Observation
Familiarize the cultivation practices of pine apple in
terms of land preparation, planting, spacing, time of
planting, irrigation, weeding, manuring and flowering
induction.
Familiarize with the plant protection of pine apple, and
list pests and diseases.
List out different products made out of pine apple and
its value addition.

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

General discussion using chart (W)

PPT (G)
Video shows (W)
Articles and Publications (I)
Field visit (W)

Quiz
Vocational diary
Assignment
Practical record

Assessment

General discussion using chart (W)

Video show (W)
PPT (G)
Field visit (W)
Field work (G)

Quiz
Vocational diary
Practical record
Poster preparation

Quiz
General discussion using chart (W)
Vocational diary
Video show (W)
Poster preparation
PPT (G)
Field visit (W)
Field work (G)

Suggested Activities

( periods)

VHSE Curriculum

Page - 95

Page - 96

Importance of medicinal plants in

The learner will be able to :
Kerala
Familiarize with the importance of medicinal plants in Group Discussion (G)
SKILLS
Kerala, lists them out with their common name, parts PPT (G)
Observation
Field visit (W)
used and scope of medicinal plants in Ayurveda.
Classification
Communication
Reference skills

Quiz
Vocational diary
Presentation
Practical record

Quiz
Vocational diary
Presentation
Practical record

Assessment

( periods)

Quiz
Vocational diary
Poster presentation

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

General discussion using chart (W)
Jasmine
Familiarize with the cultivation, varieties and PPT (G)
SKILLS
propagation of jasmine, rooting hormones, land Field visit (W)
Observation
preparation, spacing, manuring, irrigation, pruning, inter
cultural operation, weed control, pests, diseases ,yield
Analysis
and value added product- Jasmine oil.
Communication
Practical skill

Suggested Activities

Learning Outcomes

Unit :

Crop production technology of The learner will be able to :

General discussion using chart (W)
Rose
Familiarize with the classification and varieties of Rose, PPT (G)
SKILLS
propagation planting and potting mixture preparation, Field visit (W)
manuring, pruning, plant protection, harvesting, packing
Observation
and marketing, value added products and rose oil.
Classification
Practical skills
Communication
IT skills

Ideas/Concepts/Skill

Module 2 :

AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

VHSE Curriculum

PRACTICAL ACTIVITIES- MODULE II

Setting up of Crop Cafeteria

Specimen Collection

Seed Collection

Exposure visit to successful farms(IFS preferred)

Interview

Setting up of different components(Azolla, Vermicompost,

Mushroom, Biogas etc.) of IFS

Field visit

Preparation of herbariums

Interaction with farmer

Wet land/ Upland paddy cultivation prefer SRI-Land

preparation, Seed treatment, Nursery preparation - Dapog,
Types of Sowing, Cultivation, Fertilser Calculation and
application, Plant Protection Major pest and diseases - IPM,
Harvesting, Value addition, Marketing.

Collection of Specimens of Pest, Diseases of various crops

Identification of Varieties of various crops

Identification and management of major pest and diseases

of various crops

Cultivation using mini setts in tapioca

Familiarisation with Botanical pesticides from tapioca leaves

NANMA/MENMA

Familiarisation with Value added products of various crops

Identification of fodder crops

School Vegetable Garden

Portray seedling production

Familiarisation with safer chemical pesticides, botanical

pesticides, Biopesticides.

Identification and collection of vegetable seeds

Visit to VFPCK market

Drought management practices in coconut

Familiarisation with Palm Climber

Fertiliser application in coconut

Bush pepper growing

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Rapid propagation in Pepper

Rubber tapping

Fertiliser application in Banana

Tissue culture Banana work experience

Flowering induction in Pineapple

Identification of Physiological disorders in mango

Harvesting Index of Banana, Mango, Pineapple

Preparation of Potting media for anthurium and orchid

cultivation

Potting and repotting

Propagation of anthurium and orchid

Identification of medicinal plants

Setting up of medicinal garden

Field visit to nearby Ayurveda centre

OVERVIEW OF THE MODULE

Module III : Integrated Pest and Disease Management (Draft)
UnitNo

Name of the Unit

Hours

Pest and Disease Diagnosis (E-crop Doctor)

200

Integrated Pest and Disease Management of

Major Crops

80

Bio pharmacy (bio fertilizers, bio control agents,

botanicals, Bio pesticides)

40

Maintenance and Service of PP equipments

20

TOTAL

340

Module IV: HI-Tech Farming (Draft)

Unit No
1

Name of the Units

Hours

Protected cultivation (poly house, green house,

hydroponics, precision farming, rain shelters,
Crop Protection in Poly House)

200

Pesticide residue and elimination

60

Organic certification

40

ICT enabled extension services in Agriculture

40

TOTAL

340

Page - 98

VHSE Curriculum

DETAILED UNIT ANALYSIS

Name of Module

AGRI-FIELD TECHNIQUES

Name of Unit

Agrometeorology

Overview of the Unit

As plant growth is governed by the climatic factors, its study has
developed into a science called Agricultural Meteorology. Here, the
learners will study the various weather elements like temperature, wind,
relative humidity, rainfall and sunlight in relation to plant growth and
their interaction in creating a suitable condition for cultivation. These
weather elements are continuously monitored, recorded and weather
forecasting is done based on the interpretation made. In India, we are
using satellite systems and super computers for the collection and
analysis of weather data and weather forecasting. Besides, the weather
data can also be used for the forecasting of pest and disease outbreaks.
In Kerala, we have two monsoons. The SW monsoon popularly known
as Edavapathy which commences from the last week of May to first
week of June which contributes to 60 % of the water received through
rainfall. The NE monsoon is known as Thula Varsham which
commences by September. The first and second crop season are known
as Virippu and Mundakan which coincides with SW and NE monsoons
respectively.
Agriculture depends upon vagaries of nature and the variations are
closely monitored now a days using automated weather stations.
Concept 1

Meteorology

Agrometeorology

Suggested Activities
General Discussion-led by the teacher based on the following
discussion points
Points to be discussed

What are the climatic factors affecting plant growth?

What is meant by Meteorology and Agrometeorology?

Multimedia presentation-displays the ppt related to meteorologyfactors influencing and the difference between weather and climate and
their importance in plant growth.
Consolidation

The factors influencing plant growth like temperature, rainfall,

wind, sunlight.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Branch of science dealing with that of atmosphere is known as

meteorology.

A science concerned with the application of meteorology to the

measurement and analysis of the physical environment in
agricultural systems

Assessment

Quiz- questions related to factors influencing plant growth

(temperature, rainfall, wind and sunlight).

Notes on difference between meteorology and agrometeorology.

Concept 2

Weather and climate.

Activity suggested
Group discussion based on weather &climate.
Points to be discussed

What is the difference between weather and climate?

What are the specialities of climate in India?

What are the different crops cultivated in these climatic condition?

Presentation of animated CDs.

Collection of weather data from news paper (PE)
Consolidation

Weather is the condition of the atmosphere from few hours to

about weeks of a particular region. Climate is the totality of
weather elements for a few years.

Tropical- temperature, humidity high through out India

Maritime-

Monsoonal - Rain abundant in S. India.

Wheat, rice, sugarcane, mustard, soybean, jute, coffee, tea, pepper,

rubber, banana, tapioca, coconut.

Assessment

Assignment - Collection of weather data from different dailies for

1 week.

Note book - Weather, climate, difference between weather and

climate, specialities of climate in India, different crops cultivated
in these climatic conditions.

Chart preparation - Chart of Weather data for 1 week, chart

showing difference between Weather and climate, charts showing
different crops cultivated in different climatic condition.

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VHSE Curriculum

Concept 3
Microclimate
Activity suggested
Group discussion - Teacher divides students into groups, displays the
points to be discussed.
Points to be discussed

Why are the water bodies making the atmosphere cool?

What are the reasons for the increase of room temperature in

sunny days?

What is the difference between two nearby location regarding

plant density?
Presentation of Animated CDs on micro climate.
Consolidation
Groups present their views.

In normal condition water bodies use the internal energy to get

vaporized which help to cool the water body. A cooler water
surface results in cooler air temperature.

Evaporation of water bodies due to sun rays will again make the
atmosphere cool due to condensation of water vapour.

When infrared rays from the sun reach the earth and reflect back.
It gets trapped by the gases (CO2, SO2 etc.) present in the
atmosphere. Hence the atmospheric temperature and
subsequently the room temperature rises up.

Micro climate is the climatic condition around a plant or the

condition existing over a small area of the plant.

Micro climatic factors like humidity, air flow, temperature, light

intensity.
Assessment

Notebook - Entries related to microclimate and allied factors

Concept 4

Meteorological observatory and instruments to measure weather

elements
Activity suggested
Presentation of animated CDs, Presentation of video shows, Group
discussion.
Points to be discussed

What are important points to be considered for the site selection

of Meteorological Observatory?

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

What are the various instruments used to measure weather

elements?
What are the features of a Meteorological Observatory?

Visit, Model of instruments, chart of instruments and its uses (PE)

Consolidation

A standard observatory is required to familiarize with the weather

of a given place.

Various instruments are required to measure and understand

weather components like instruments measuring soil and
atmospheric temperature, direction and velocity of wind, duration
and intensity of sun light, rain fall, humidity, evapo transpiration.

Meteorological observatory is a place where different instruments

which record meteorological data are lodged

The observatory should be located at a site which is representative

of the area

The area should be enclosed by a wire fence

Site should be free from obstructions like tall trees or buildings on

all sides

The size of the plot must be 55m in North South Direciton and 36m
in East West Direction

Stevenson Screen - Relative Humidity and temperature

Soil Thermometers - Soil Temperature

Sunshine Recorder - Sun shine duration

Wind vane - Wind direction

Cup anemometer - Wind Speed

Open Pan evaporimeter - Evaporation

Rain gauge - Rain

Automatic/Self Recording Rain gauge

Dew gauge - Dew

Automatic weather station

Assessment

Presentation of assignment-Features of meteorological

observatory.

Points to be considered for the site selection of meteorological

observatory.

Participation in group discussion

Active involvement in practical

Preparation of models of instruments like cup anemometer

Quiz - Question and answers regarding meteorological

observatory.

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VHSE Curriculum

Practical record - Handling of instruments required to measure

weather components.

Concept 5

Weather forecasting
Activity suggested
General discussion
Points to be discussed

What is weather forecasting?

How the forecast is given to the farmer?

Who are the beneficiaries?

Which are the types of forecasting?

Power point presentation - Teacher's powerpoint presentation on need
and importance of weather forecasting.
Chart preparation.
Consolidation
Shipping

General public

Airlines

Agriculture

Weather forecasting
Defence service

Govt. & Post

Fishing Mountaineering
officials

The prediction of weather for the next few days to follow is called
weather forecasting

Weather forecasting helps in

Prediction of weather and climate.

Short, medium and long term forecasting.

Purpose or beneficiary.

Agencies - IMD, Doordarsan, Air.

Assessment

Notebook entries - weather parameters

Unit assessment - Written examination on the points discussed

above.
Concept 6

Importance of Automated weather stations

Activity suggested
Group discussion

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

Points to be discussed
The facilitators initiates a discussion on automated weather stations.

What is an automated weather station?

Multimedia presentation - Followed by discussion.
Consolidation

Automated weather stations is an automatic type of traditional

weather station either to enable measurements from remote areas
or to save human labour
Assessment

Note book- Discussion report on automated weather station.

Concept 7

Crop seasons and Monsoons in Kerala

Activity suggested
Group discussion - Teacher leads a general discussion on crop seasons
and monsoons in Kerala and then group discussion.
Interactive multimedia presentation.
Collect paper cuttings (PE).
Analysis of collected rainfall data from internet for the last 10 years (PE)
The students are asked to analyse the rainfall data chart and initiate
disussion based on monsoons and crop calender of rice.
List out the months having higher rain fall.
Compare with crop calendar and identify agricultural seasons.
Crop seasons in Kerala with special reference to rice (virippu,
mundakan, puncha).
Monsoons of Kerala (South West, North East, Summer seasons)
Face to face interaction with key informants of
community (PE).

nearby farming

Consolidation

Page - 104

Kerala receives two monsoons. The South West monsoons

popularly known as Edavapathy which commence from last week
of May. It contributes 60% rainfall. The first crop season of paddy
ie. Virippu coincides with this monsoon. North East monsoon is
known as Thulavarsha which commences from September. The
Second crop season called Mundakan coincides with this period.
It contributes 30% of rainfall. Puncha is the third season of paddy
which do not coincide with any monsoon.

VHSE Curriculum

Assessment

Participation in Group discussion

Chart
Report on group discussion
Practical record
Oral test
Unit test

Repocitory of CE
Process
Assessment
Participation in
group discusion

Portfolio
Assessment

Unit
Assessment

Presentation of
Quiz competition
Assignment Report Written
of Group discussion
examination

Active involvement Preparation of model Oral test

in practical
observatory and
instruments
Face to face
interaction with
farmer groups
Field visit

Chart of weather data

chart of difference
betweenweather &
climate
Report on field visit

CE Questions
1.

2.

3.

4.

A few students of 8th standard seek clarification on the almost

similar term weather and climate, after a class on meteorology.
Give good reason and justify.
Schools have been requested by DEO to setup model weather
observatory to familiarize students with weather element/
parameters in the era of climate change. Make a list of instruments
that will be required with its use and criteria to be followed for
selection of site for setting up of observatory.
Climate change poses a major challenge to the farming
community. Government agencies like Department of
Meteorology in collaboration with Doordarshan and AIR give
yeoman service to former. Suresh being a volunteer plans a
campaign to make aware about those agricultural services.
Prepare a script for this campaign highlighting the purpose of
these services and the service provided.
Monsoon tourism has great potential in Kerala. Foreign tourists
need to be made aware about the character of monsoon in Kerala.
Briefly write a note with special reference to paddy seasons to be
published on a popular tourism website

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

LIST OF TOOLS, EQUIPMENTS AND MATERIALS

Sl. Name of items
No. (with specifications)

Quantity required Remarks

(per 25 students)

Hand sprayer (2L)

10

Rocker sprayer (5L)

Knap sack sprayer (10 L)

Knap sack sprayer (5 L)

Hand rotary duster

Rat trap (cage type)

Rat trap (wooden type)

Rat trap (gullettin type)

Rat trap (adhesive type)

10

Bio gas plant (Modular)

11

Polythene cover (Different sizes)

12

Grow bag

25

13

Hygrometer

14

Steel rack

15

Drum (250L)

16

Pressure cooker (10L)

17

Tiller (Model)

18

Seeder(Model)

19

Transplanter(Model)

20

Chain saw

21

Augur

5 kg

22 Power sprayer

23

Coconut Climber

24

Telescope harvester

25

Pedal pump

26

Toolset and spare

27

Budding cum grafting knife

25

28

Budding knife

25

29

Grafting knife

25

30

Secateur (falcon)

31

Pots (Small )

25

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VHSE Curriculum

32

Pots (Medium )

20

33

Pots (Large )

15

34

Hand cultivator

10

35

Hand fork

10

36

Hand rake

37

Land mower

38

Hole digger

39

Rose can

40

Garden shear

10

41

Japanese hoe

42

Trench hoe

43

Spade

10

44

Kunthali

45

Axe

46

Pick axe

47

Dibbler

48

Pruning saw

49

Pruning knife

50

Insect traps

51

Hand nets

25

52

Wind vane

53

Cup anemometer

54

Stevenson screen

55

Rain gauge

56

Cultivator(model)

57

Clod crusher (model)

58

Thresher (model)

59

Winnower(model)

60

Combined Harvster(model)

61

Tractor (model)

62

Seeder(model)

63

Transplanter(model)

64

Rotovator(model)

65

Good quality hose(30mts)

66

Charts

10

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

67

Models

68

Sprinkler

69

Drip

70

Portrays

30

71

Thermometer

72

Barometer

73

Barograph

74

Sunshine recorder

75

Pan evaporimeter

76

Iron pan

10

77

Rubber basket

10

78

Country plough (Model)

79

Mould Board Plough(Model)

80

Leveller (Model)

81

Hand Trowel

82

Showel (3 inch, nose D type handles)

83

Hand Showel

10

84

Sickle

25

85

Bill hook

86

Felling knife

87

Grass cutting knife

88

Rubber tapping knife

89

Petridishes

25

90

Germination tray

10

91

Orchid flower pot

10

92

Hammer

93

Country trap

94

Wonder trap

95

Back braking trap

96

Killing bottles

25

97

Setting board

25

98

Setting box

25

99

Insect display board with glass cover

100 Mammatty fork (4 prongs)

Page - 108

5 set

VHSE Curriculum

STANDARD LIST OF CONSUMABLES FOR MODULES I AND II

Sl. Name of items
(with specifications)

Quantity required Remarks

(per 25 students)

Vermiculite

10kg

Perlite

10kg

Vermicompost

10kg

Formalin

Urea

As per requirements

Super phosphate

As per requirements

Ammonium Sulphate

As per requirements

Mussoriephos

As per requirements

MOP

As per requirements

10

Factomphos

As per requirements

11

17:17:17 complex

As per requirements

12

10:5:20 Mixture

As per requirements

13

7:10:5 Mixture

As per requirements

14

Rose mixture

5kg

15

Garden mixture

3kg

16

Bone meal

5kg

17

Sterameal

5kg

18

Oil cakes

10kg

19

Propagation media

20

Red earth

21

Sand

As per requirements

22 FYM

As per requirements

3L

As per requirements
500kg

23

Spagnum moss

10kg

24

Charcoal

5kg

25

Coir dust

5kg

26

Liming materials

As per requirements

27

Lime

As per requirements

28

Dolomite

As per requirements

29

Gypsum

As per requirements

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

30

Biofertilizers

As per requirements

31

Other items

As per requirements

32

Spawn

5kg

33

Straw

As per requirements

34

Polytube

10kg

35

Kora cloth

30m

36

Paraffin wax

2kg

37

Cotton

1kg

38

Coir

10kg

39

Non absorbant cotton

1kg

40

GI wire

10kg

41

Tobacco

2kg

42

Bar soap

10no

43

Chemicals

As per requirements

44

Copper sulphate

As per requirements

45

Ammonium carbonate

As per requirements

46

Neem kernel

As per requirements

47

Neem oil

As per requirements

48

Rootex B1, B2, B3

49

Pottasium ferrocyanide

50

Chloroform

As per requirements

51

Insecticide

As per requirements

52

Fungicide

As per requirements

53

Herbicide

As per requirements

54

Rodenticide

As per requirements

55

Acaricide

As per requirements

56

Antibiotics

As per requirements

57

Seeds, Flowers, fruits, vegetables As per requirements

Page - 110

250gm each
1kg

VHSE Curriculum

LIST OF BOOKS AND INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

1.

Nene, Y.L. and Choudhary, S.L. 2002. Agricultural heritage of

India. Asian Agri History foundation, Secundrabad.

2.

Randhawa, M.S., 1980 86. A histroy of Agriculture in India. Vol.

I, II, III and IV. Indian council of Agricultural Research, New
Delhi.s

3.

Raychaudhuri, S.P. 1964. Agriculture in ancient India. Indian

council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi.

4.

Razia Akbar (Tr) 2000. Muskha Dar Fauni Falahat (The art of
agriculture). Agri History Bulletin No. 3. Asian Agri. History
foundation, Secundrabad.

5.

Sadhale Nalini (Tr) 1996. Surapalas Vrikshayurveda (The science

of plant life). Asian. History Bulletin No. 1. Asian Agri History
foundation, Secundrabad.

6.

Sadhale, Nalini Tr) 1999. Krishi Parashara (Agriculture by

Parashara). Agri- Histroy Bulletin No. 2. Asian Agri History
foundation, Secundrabad, India

7.

Ayachit, S.M. (Tr) 2002. Kashyapiya Krishisukti (A treatise on

Agriculture by Kashyapa). Agri History Billetin No. 4. Asian
Agri History foundation, Secundrabad

8.

Choudhary, S.L., Sharma, G.S. and Nene, Y.L. 2000. Ancient and
medievel history of Indian agriculture and its relevance to
sustainable agriculture in the 21st century. Proceedings of the
summem school held from 28 May to 17 June 1999. Rajasthan
College of Agriculture, Udaipur, India

9.

FARM GUIDE- GoK

10.

Krshipaddam- Dr R.Heli

11.

Krishiyile Nattarivukal- Sri. Muraleedharan, Thazhakkara

12.

Buchel, K. H. 1983 Chemistry of pesticides. John Wiley and Sons

New York.

13.

Collings G. H. 1955 Commercial Fertilizers. Mc Graw Hill

Publishing Co. New York.

14.

Geroge W. W 1986. Fundamentals of pesticides A self-instruction

Guide. Thomas publication P.O. Box 9335. Frenocalifornia.

15.

Sree Ramulu, U. S. 1979. Chemistry of Insecticides and Fungicides.

Oxford and IBH Publishing House Co. New Delhi.

16.

Basak, N.N. 1994 Surveying and Levelling. Tata Mc-Grew Hill

Publishing Company, New Delhi.

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AGRICULTURE - CROP HEALTH MANAGEMENT

17.

Ghanashyam Das, 2000. Hydrology and Soil Conservation

engineering, Prentice hall of India Private Limited New Delhi.

18.

Gurmail singh, 1982. A Manual on Soil and Water Conservation,

ICAR Publication, New Delhi.

19.

Kanetkar, I.P. and S.V.Kulkarni, 1984. Surveying and Levelling,

Part I Pune Vidyarthi Giiha: Prakasan, Pune.

20.

Murthy, V.V.N. Land and Water Management Engineering. 1998.

Kalyani Publishers, Ludhiana.

21.

Suresh.R. 1982. Soil and Water Conservation Engineering.

Standard Publication, New Delhi.

22.

Veeraragavathatham, D., Jawaharlal, M., Jeeva, S., Rabindran, R

and Umapathy, G. 2004 (2nd edition). Scientific fruit culture.
Published by M/s. Suri associates, 1362/4, Velraj Vihar Complex,
Thadagam Road, Coimbatore- 2

23.

Chattopadhyay, 1998. A textbook on pomology (sub-tropical

fruits) vol.III. Published by M/s. Kalyani publishers, Ludhiana,
New Delhi, Noida. UP.

24.

Bose, T.K., S.K. Mitra and D. Sanyal 2001, Fruits : Tropical and
Subtropical (2 volumes) Naya Udyog, Calcutta.

25.

Bose, T.K., S.K.Mitra, A.A. Farooqi and M.K. Sadhu (Eds) 1999.
Tropical Horticulture Vol.1. Naya Prokash, Calcutta.

26.

Chadha, K.L. 2001. Handbook of Horticulture. ICAR, Delhi

27.

Chattopadhyay, T.K., 2001. A Text Book on Pomology (4 volumes).

Kalyani Publishers, Ludhiana.

28.

Kumar, N. 1997. Introduction to Horticulture. Rajalakshmi

Publications, Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu.

29.

Mitra, S.K., T.K. Bose and D.S. Rathore. 1991. Temperate fruits.
Horticulture and allied Publishers, Calcutta.

30.

Pal, J.S. 1997. Fruit Growing. Kalyani Publishers, New Delhi.

31.

Sadhu, M.K. and P.K. Chattopadhyay.2001. Introductory Fruit

Crops. Naya Prokash, Calcutta.

32.

Singh, S.P. 1995. Commercial Fruits. Kalyani Publishers,

Ludhiana.

Page - 112

VHSE Curriculum

WEBSITES:
1.

KAU AGRI PORTAL

2.

www.keralaagriculture.gov.in/

3.

html/institution/insti.html

4.

www.youtube.com (kissan kerala, harithabharatham,

harithakeralam etc...videos)

5.

SIET KERALA (animated online videos) sietkerala.gov.in

6.

www.imd.gov.in/section/hydro/distrainfall/kerala/html
(Indian Meteorological Department -IMD)

7.

www.imdtvm.gov.in

8.

www.imd.gov.in/section/nhac/dynamic/monsoon_frame.html

9.

www.keralastat.com/meteorologicaldata/22/rainfall/238/
stat.aspx

10.

www.automaticweatherstation.com/index.html

11.

www.tnau.ac.in Agritechportal

12.

www.sietkerala.gov.in

Page - 113