T‘puram: Governor Rajendra Arlekar led the harvesting of paddy cultivated on the Lok Bhavan premises, marking the successful implementation of his initiative to turn the sprawling compound into an agricultural garden.The paddy was sown three months ago on 10 cents. The governor visited the cultivation site and assessed the yield.Several vegetables, including snake gourd, spinach, drumstick, ash gourd, pumpkin, cucumber, perennial brinjal, cabbage, eggplant, long beans, tapioca, green chilli and sweet potato, are also nearing harvest.Arlekar interacted with officials to learn about the varieties being cultivated, farming methods and their intended use.The governor’s agricultural initiative was inspired by the success of farming experiments he undertook while serving as the Bihar governor. The project aims not only to make the Lok Bhavan premises greener through cultivation but also to effectively utilise the time and efforts of its employees.A supervisor from the agriculture department has also been appointed to oversee the farming activities. Officials said systematic maintenance was a key factor behind the good yield. From sowing and fertilisation to irrigation, weed control and crop management, the activities have been carried out according to a planned schedule.With the governor taking a direct interest in farming and employees contributing collectively, the Lok Bhavan premises is gradually being transformed into a model agricultural garden.
