'Children must move from screens to soil; farming should become their passion': Mohanlal named brand ambassador of Kathir project

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Actor Mohanlal has been named the brand ambassador of the 'Kathir' agricultural project launched by the state Agriculture Department in association with the General Education Department to create awareness about farming among students and encourage them to take up agriculture. As part of the first phase, 'Kathir' agricultural clubs will be formed in 500 schools across the state. Mohanlal expressed hope that the initiative would grow into a major movement.

Speaking about the project, Mohanlal said he has always been interested in farming and also cultivates crops at his home. He described the initiative to set up agricultural clubs in schools as important and encouraging. He also welcomed the decision to award weightage marks to students who engage in farming, saying it would motivate more children to take an interest in agriculture.

"Farming should become the passion of children. Change must begin with them. Children should move away from screens in the virtual world and step into soil. I hope every child plants at least one seed starting today," Mohanlal said.

Mohanlal also offered the full support of the ViswaSanthi Foundation, which works in memory of his parents, for the project.

Agriculture Minister T. Siddique said the appointment of the popular actor as the brand ambassador of the Kathir project would mark the beginning of a major step forward. The department aims to establish Kathir agricultural clubs in all schools across the state from the next academic year. Nodal officers will be appointed to ensure the smooth implementation of the project. A two-day training programme for officials involved in its implementation has already been completed in Thiruvananthapuram.