When I enrolled in the Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) Program, I thought it would be another qualification in my name. A year later I realized the course had not only deepened my understanding of agriculture but had empowered me to explore agripreneurship and even consider agriculture as a possible side hustle. As a former journalist and communications specialist from Bengaluru, agriculture always seemed distant, with limited farming exposure at my home town Kolkunda in Kalaburgi district. Now I see it as a space of innovation and purpose. I am not alone. The program is drawing people from different age groups and professions —doctors, engineers and entrepreneurs. My class of around 45 was a diverse set, who brought in new experiences and knowledge to the table. In my case, the classroom and on-field trainings helped me understand diverse aspects of agriculture. From soil to crop patterns, plant diseases to nutrition, integrated farming to agr...