With Onam, Kerala’s annual festival, approaching, the state government is gearing up for the celebrations. On Wednesday, the government will launch the 2024 edition of ‘The Onathinu Orumuram Pachakari Project,’ which promotes vegetable cultivation across various societal sections, particularly targeting Onam season sales.
During the state-level inauguration of the 2024 edition, 13 types of vegetables will be cultivated in earthen pots and on the grounds of the Secretariat garden—the state’s main legislative building. Additionally, 1,200 hybrid chrysanthemum plants (orange/yellow) will be planted in the Secretariat garden. Hybrid saplings of eggplant, chili, tomato, and okra will be planted in 560 pots, while spinach, pumpkin, perennial eggplant, snake gourd, cucumber, salad cucumber, beans, and cowpeas will be planted and maintained on the ground.
As part of the project, seed packets will be distributed through all Krishi Bhavan (agricultural) offices in the state. The state-level inauguration will be led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, with various department ministers, public representatives, and high-ranking officials in attendance.
Onam Onam is an agricultural festival celebrating the rich harvest, symbolizing joy and prosperity. It evokes nostalgia, reminding people of childhood memories and simpler village lifestyles. The festival also commemorates the legend of Mahabali, the demon king who is believed to visit his former subjects annually during this period.
Secretariat Building The Kerala Government Secretariat, located in Thiruvananthapuram on Narmada Road, serves as the central administrative hub for the Government of Kerala. Originally built as the Durbar Hall for the Travancore Kingdom, the complex houses key ministries and bureaucratic offices. It represents the highest echelon of the state administrative structure, where the State Government exercises executive authority. The Secretariat comprises various departments, led by ministers and overseen administratively by the Secretaries to the Government. This landmark structure is a prominent feature of Thiruvananthapuram city.
