Training programme on 'Preparedness for Drought Situation in Hills'
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 30 2012:
A two-day training programme on 'Preparedness for Drought Situation in the Hills' began from today at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region Manipur centre, Lamphelpat.
Inaugural function of the training programme jointly organised by ICAR and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Imphal West, was held with Deputy Commissioner (Imphal West) Ashok Kumar and ICAR Manipur Centre's Joint Director Dr Narendra Prakash as the chief guest and functional president respectively.
Describing drought as a climatic hazard, Ashok Kumar said the natural calamity not only imperils the farmer community but also impedes food productivity in the affected region.
Noting that 60 percent of agricultural areas in the hill is dependent on rainfall, he said drought-related damages could be minimised in case drought could be predicted or policy makers, NGOs and agricultural research institute contribute their mite in preventing occurrence of drought.
While exuding confidence that the ongoing training programme would be able to provide invaluable informative and pre-emptive steps to overcome perils of drought or other natural calamities, the chief guest also emphasised that meteorological department has an important role to play in helping the farmers avoid disastrous consequences through maintaining relevant records for regular forecast of drought-like natural calamities.
The Deputy Commissioner also strongly advocated effective mechanism for preservation of water sources/bodies, adopting horticulture and latest agricultural technology, constant consultation with subject experts and practising integrated farming to minimise impact of drought.