Where was the first Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) sanctioned?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Puducherry
Explanation:
· First KVK: The first Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in India was established in 1974 at Puducherry (formerly Pondicherry).
· Pilot Project: It was established as a pilot project under the administrative control of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore.
· Recommendation: The concept was developed based on the recommendation of the Dr. Mohan Singh Mehta Committee, appointed by the ICAR in 1973.
Additional Information (Other Options):
· (c) Pantnagar: This location is famous for India's first Agricultural University (Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology), established in 1960, but not the first KVK.
· (a) Ludhiana: Home to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), which played a pivotal role in the Green Revolution.
· (d) Hyderabad: A major hub for agricultural research institutes like ICRISAT (International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics) and NAARM (National Academy of Agricultural Research Management).
Information Booster:
· Current Status: As of 2024, there are over 731 KVKs functioning across India.
· Mandate: KVKs are often called "Farm Science Centers". Their primary mandate is Technology Assessment and Demonstration for its application and capacity development (providing training to farmers, rural youth, and extension personnel).
· Golden Jubilee: The ICAR celebrated the Golden Jubilee (50 years) of Krishi Vigyan Kendras in March 2024.