World Soil Day 2024 observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 05 2024: The ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Imphal West celebrated World Soil Day 2024 under the theme "Sustainable Soil Management for Agricultural Prosperity" as a key event of the ongoing Krishak Swama Samriddhi Week and Technology Week cum State Level Exhibition/Kisan Mela.

The event brought together farmers, agricultural scientists, and policymakers to emphasize the vital role of soil health in enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring long-term food security.

The programme began with the enthusiastic arrival of farmers, esteemed guests and media representatives.

Dr Laishram Kanta Singh, Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR-KVK Imphal West delivered a welcome address, highlighting the centre's commitment to empowering farmers with innovative technologies and sustainable farming practices.

Dr Th Basanta Singh, Scientist (Soil Science), presented the keynote address underlining the necessity of maintaining soil health to mitigate climate change impacts and safeguard biodiversity.

He emphasized that soil conservation is critical for achieving sustainable agricultural systems.

Special addresses were delivered by Dr Ch Basudha Devi, Principal Scientist (Fisheries) and Dr Ramgopal Laha, HORC, ICAR Manipur Centre.

They highlighted the importance of integrating soil health management with fisheries and crop diversification to improve productivity and farmers' livelihoods.

Meanwhile, chief guest Laishram Boby Devi, Adhyaksa, Zila Parishad, Imphal West, applauded ICAR-KVK for its pioneering role in equipping fanners with advanced knowledge and technologies.

She encouraged stakeholders to prioritize sustainable soil practices to ensure food security for future generations.

The programme, coordinated by Dr Lydia Zimik, SMS (Agronomy), KVK Imphal West, concluded with a renewed focus on collaborative efforts to promote sustainable agriculture in Manipur, recognizing soil as the cornerstone of agricultural success.

Separately, Green Foundation, Global Soil Partner and Food and Agriculture Organisation jointly organised the observance ceremony of World Soil Day today at the Fanner Convention Hall at the office of Green Foundation located at Kwakeithel Awang Thiyam Leikai.

The event was organised under the theme "Caring for soils: Measure, monitor, manage" and witnessed the attendance of Malem Khaidem, District Horticulture Officer, Thoubal; Professor N Iboton, former Dean, Central Agriculture University, Iroisemba; Dr Basanta, Soil Scientist, ICAR Imphal; U Himmat, CEO, Green Foundation and Dr M Thoithoi, advisor, Green Foundation along with farmers from different parts of the State.

On the occasion, a consultative workshop on "Applications of soil caring measures in Manipur" was also conducted.

Additionally, a book titled "Manipurda Tilhou Thaba" written Dr M Thoithoi was also released.

Comment