# KAU launches five-crop home garden model ‘Panchakam’ 2026-08-08T12:43:25+00:00 | India | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet The Kerala Agricultural University has launched 'Panchakam', a home garden model to help households grow nutrient-rich vegetables in small spaces like terraces and balconies. The initiative encourages families to cultivate five carefully selected crops, drumstick, papaya, chilli, curry leaf and cowpea, in at least five pots or a small patch of land for a year-round supply. KAU Vice-Chancellor T. Sajitha Rani said the model promotes sustainable, self-reliant kitchen gardens. The university notes that while an adult needs about 300 g of vegetables daily, the average consumption in Kerala is only 100-120 g, and Panchakam aims to bridge this gap. The five crops were chosen for their high nutritional value and adaptability to Kerala's climate. ## Coverage - thehindu.com Tags: home gardens, KAU, Kerala, nutrition, Panchakam, vegetable cultivation Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/kau-launches-five-crop-home-garden-model-panchakam/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/kau-launches-five-crop-home-garden-model-panchakam/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.