In an innovative step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and healthy nutrition, a tribal school in Pathanamthitta district has introduced terrace farming to support its midday meal program. The initiative enables students and teachers to cultivate fresh vegetables on the school’s rooftop, ensuring a regular supply of nutritious produce for daily meals. The project not only enhances the quality of food served to students but also encourages self-sufficiency and environmentally friendly farming practices.
The terrace garden includes a variety of vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, chilies, brinjals, okra, and other seasonal crops, all grown using organic farming methods. Students actively participate in planting, watering, and maintaining the garden under the guidance of teachers, gaining valuable hands-on experience in agriculture and environmental conservation. The initiative also serves as a practical learning platform, helping children understand the importance of sustainable farming, nutrition, and responsible use of natural resources.
The project has received widespread appreciation from education officials, local communities, and environmental organizations for combining education with sustainable development. School authorities believe that the initiative not only reduces the cost of the midday meal program but also inspires students to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. The success of the terrace farming project is expected to encourage other schools across Kerala to implement similar initiatives, promoting healthier meals and environmental awareness among young learners.