Urban kitchen gardens can add to food security efforts, sustainable living: Experts
By AK. Sahoo
Bhubaneswar, July 13: Urban kitchen gardens can play a crucial role in promoting food security, healthy lifestyles and environmental sustainability, experts said at a seminar on ‘Urban Rooftop Gardening’ organised by the Orissa Environmental Society (OES) here.
Speaking at the programme, Dr P. Srinivas, Principal Scientist at the Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Bhubaneswar, said kitchen gardens enable urban families to grow fresh, chemical-free vegetables, fruits and herbs in limited spaces such as terraces, balconies and rooftops using pots, grow bags and recycled containers.
He said compost prepared from kitchen waste serves as a natural fertiliser, helping reduce household waste while encouraging eco-friendly practices. Besides improving nutrition and reducing dependence on market produce, gardening also promotes physical activity, relieves stress and strengthens people’s connection with nature, he added.
Presiding over the seminar, OES working president Dr Jayakrushna Panigrahi said urban kitchen gardening has gained momentum due to rapid urbanisation, rising food prices and increasing awareness about healthy eating. He noted that challenges such as limited space, inadequate sunlight, irregular water supply and pest management can be addressed through innovative techniques, including vertical gardening, drip irrigation, hydroponics and proper planning.
OES president Dr Sundara Narayana Patro said wider adoption of urban kitchen gardens could contribute significantly to food security, waste reduction and greener cities, while vice-president Dr Bijay Ketan Patnaik highlighted their role in supporting biodiversity by attracting birds and pollinators.
OES secretary Er Manoranjan Mishra delivered the introductory address, while programme coordinator Prof. Ch. Surjyakant Mishra introduced the guests. Vice-President Dr Lala A.K. Singh proposed the vote of thanks.
A large number of OES members and environmental enthusiasts attended the seminar and participated in the discussion.
