The event was held under the auspices of K.H. Patila Krishi Vijnana Kendra of Hulakoti, Centre for Alternative Agricultural Media in Dharwad, Dhrarithri and Rotary Central of Gadag and Krishna Friends Association of Hulakoti.

Mr. C.G. Kooravanavar, President, K.H. Patil Krishi Vijnana Kendra, Hulakoti inaugurating the two-day workshop.

The response to the workshop was overwhelming. With over 40 participants it underlined the concept of farmer friendly journalism. The participants from different parts of the state had a strong desire to put their thoughts into paper. The workshop in their own words has efficiently guided them to come out with effective writings. In the workshop practical training was given to the participants on the techniques of writing, types of farm articles, photojournalism, importance of the concept of 'farmer friendly journalism' and few other key topics.

CAAM awards

Various dignitaries visited the workshop and were appreciative of such an effort. The first-ever state level annual awards for the best farm writings in the farmer and general category were given at the concluding ceremony of the workshop. Mr. Chandrashekhar Yethadka of Kasargod District and Mr. R.S. Patil of Hosariththi in Haveri had been selected for the awards in the farmer and non-farmer section respectively. The awards carried a cash prize of Rs.2000 each besides a citation. Senior farm journalist Mr. Kouthala Veerappa after conferring the awards stressed for a proper strategy to popularise alternative agriculture and need based farm journalism. He also felt that training programmes and orientation programmes are necessary to bridge the gap between the media and the farmers.

Speaking on the occasion, CAAM team member and renowned journalist Mr. Shree Padre mentioned the initiatives CAAM has taken to focus on the concept of farmer friendly communication in the international arena. He said, "workshops help the farmers to know the basics of good writing and initiate them take up writing to express themselves. But the process is not over, one can be a good writer only through hard work and continuous effort."