The Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) has launched ‘Panchakam’, a home garden model aimed at helping households cultivate nutritious vegetables in limited spaces like terraces and balconies. Families are encouraged to plant five crops: drumstick, papaya, chilli, curry leaf, and cowpea, either in pots or small patches of land.
KAU Vice-Chancellor T. Sajitha Rani emphasized the initiative’s role in promoting sustainable kitchen gardens and providing pesticide-free vegetables to enhance nutrition. Developed by Emeritus Professor T. Pradeepkumar, the model addresses a significant gap in vegetable consumption, as adults require about 300 grams daily but typically consume only 100-120 grams.
The selected crops are not only nutritious but also well-suited to Kerala’s agro-climatic conditions. For instance, drumstick leaves are rich in iron and vitamins A and C, while papaya offers dietary fiber and vitamin C. The initiative promotes urban agriculture, requiring minimal space for cultivation, and aims to improve household nutrition and reduce reliance on market vegetables, ultimately fostering a more self-reliant food system.
This venture aligns with KAU’s efforts to strengthen food security through practical interventions accessible to families across the state.
Published: August 01, 2026
