The Kerala government will complete the mapping of fallow lands in the public and private sectors and bring them under cultivation as part of its efforts to attain self-sufficiency in food production, Agriculture Minister T. Siddique has said.Inaugurating the State-level launch of the ‘Kanipanthal–Now in Schools Too’ scheme at SKMJ Higher Secondary School, Kalpetta in Wayanad, on Friday (July 17, 2026), the Minister said the initiative aimed to promote fruit cultivation in schools, improve nutritional security, and foster interest in agriculture among students. He also planted a fruit sapling on the school campus.As part of the scheme, jointly implemented by the Agriculture department and State Horticulture Mission Kerala, fruit nutrition gardens will be established in 2,921 educational institutions across the State by planting saplings of mango, jackfruit, guava, Indian gooseberry (amla), sapota, rambutan, mangosteen, rose apple and citrus varieties.Mr. Siddique said ‘Kathir Clubs’ would be formed in all schools, with each institution receiving ₹10,000. In the first phase, the clubs would be launched in 500 schools. The Agriculture department has already held discussions with the Education department to award weightage marks to students participating in the club activities, the Minister added.Students under the Green Cadet Corps will also become part of the initiative.Mr. Siddique said the Kanipanthal scheme was intended not only to promote agriculture but also to help steer students away from unhealthy habits, including substance abuse, while nurturing a closer connection with nature, farming, and culture. Published - July 17, 2026 07:54 pm IST