Bridging knowledge and practice for agricultural progress in Manipur
- Krishi Vigyan Kendras -

Dr Laishram Kanta Singh *

Farmers' Fair and Exhibition at ICAR Research Complex, Lamphelpat, Imphal in March 2015 :: Pix - Nganthoi Lourembam

Introduction

Agriculture is the back-bone of Manipur's economy, supporting more than 70% of its population. With a diverse agro-climatic zone, rich biodiversity, and a strong tradition of farming, the State possesses immense potential for agricultural development. However, challenges such as small landholdings, traditional farming practices, low productivity, poor market linkages, and limited access to modern technologies have long hindered the sector's progress.

In this context, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) have emerged as vital institutions for agricultural transformation. Established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), KVKs are dedicated to technology assessment, refinement, and dissemination in the field of agriculture and allied sectors.

In Manipur, the KVKs are playing a critical role in bridging the gap between research and extension, empowering farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance productivity, income, and sustainability.

Overview of Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Manipur

Manipur currently hosts nine KVKs, one in each district, functioning under different host organizations such as the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, the State Government, CAU Imphal, and NGOs. T

hese KVKs include: KVK Imphal West, KVK Imphal East, KVK Thoubal, KVK Bishnupur, KVK Churachandpur, KVK Chandel, KVK Ukhrul, KVK Senapati, KVK Tamenglong Each KVK is equipped with multidisciplinary scientists from fields such as Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Horticulture, Animal Science, Plant Protection, Soil Science, and Agricultural Extension.

These centres operate with a farm-based approach, and their mandates include:

o On-Farm Testing (OFT) for technology assessment and refinement.
o Frontline Demonstrations (FLDs) on major crops and enterprises.
o Capacity building of farmers and extension personnel.
o Production of quality seeds and planting materials.
o Vocational training for rural youth and farm women.

Major Contributions of KVKs in Manipur's Agricultural Development

1. Technology Assessment and Refinement

One of the core functions of KVKs is to assess the applicability of research-based technologies in local agro-ecological contexts. Through On-Farm Trials, KVKs in Manipur test new crop varieties, integrated nutrient and pest management practices, water-saving techniques, and organic farming models. These trials help in refming technologies that are better suited for the hill and valley areas of the State.

For instance, KVK Imphal West has tested and popularized short-duration rice varieties and drum seeder technology to combat labour shortages and improve crop establishment. Similarly, KVK Chandel has adapted high-yielding maize and millet varieties for hilly terrain.

2. Dissemination through Frontline Demonstrations

o Frontline Demonstrations are critical in showcasing proven technologies directly to farmers. KVKs organize demonstrations on:
o High-yielding crop varieties (rice, pulses, oilseeds, maize)
o Integrated Crop Management (ICM)
o Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
o Soil and Water Conservation Livestock and poultry management

These demonstrations have helped in increasing crop productivity and resource-use efficiency. For example, FLDs on improved mustard varieties in Thoubal and Imphal West districts have shown yield increases of 30-40% over local varieties. Similarly, poultry FLDs have enhanced the incomes of tribal farmers in Chandel and Tamenglong.

3. Skill Development and Capacity Building

KVKs conduct hundreds of training programs annually for farmers, farm women, rural youth, and extension workers.

Topics covered include:
o Organic farming and vermicomposting Integrated Farming Systems (IFS)
o Value addition and processing of farm produce Agroforestry and climate-resilient practices
o Nursery raising and protected cultivation

These trainings empower farmers to adopt new practices and diversify their livelihoods. KVKs also play a pivotal role in empowering farm women through training in mushroom cultivation, backyard poultry, tailoring, kitchen gardening, and food preservation. KVK's mushroom cultivation initiative has trained more than 500 rural women and helped establish several self-help groups (SHGs) engaged in spawn production and marketing.

4. Promotion of Organic and Natural Farming

Given the increasing demand for chemical-free produce and the ecological fragility of Manipur, KVKs have actively promoted organic and natural farming methods. KVK Churachandpur and KVK Bishnupur have demonstrated the use of liquid organic manures like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit, pest-repellent botanicals, and mulching in vegetable cultivation.

KVKs have helped farmers adopt organic rice and turmeric cultivation under participatory guarantee systems (PGS), facilitating certification and marketing.

5. Seed and Planting Material Production

KVKs in Manipur play a crucial role in ensuring the availability of quality seeds and planting materials. Most KVKs maintain seed farms, horticultural nurseries, and mother units for supplying: o Quality seeds of rice, pulses, and oilseeds o Grafted fruit plants Vegetable seedlings o Vermicompost and bio-inputs

These materials are provided to farmers at nominal rates, reducing dependence on external sources and ensuring timely sowing. KVKs have also encouraged community seed banks and farmer-to-farmer seed sharing networks.

6. Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Conservation

Practices Manipur is prone to erratic rainfall, landslides, and soil degradation. KVKs have been proactive in promoting climate-smart agriculture and soil conservation techniques, especially in hill districts.

Activities include:
o Rainwater harvesting and micro-irrigation
o Promotion of drought-tolerant varieties
o Agroforestry models with nitrogen-fixing trees
o Soil testing and nutrient management plans
o Zero tillage and residue mulching

KVK Chandel and KVK Churachandpur have introduced integrated hill farming systems that combine terrace farming with livestock, agroforestry, and aquaculture for improving resilience.

7. Farm Mechanization and Labour-Saving Devices

KVKs have also promoted small-scale mechanization to address labour shortages and improve farm efficiency. Demonstrations and training have been conducted on:
o Drum seeder and cono weeder in rice
o Power tillers and mini-tractors
o Threshers and reapers
o Solar dryers for post-harvest processing

KVK Imphal West has successfully introduced the use of a drum seeder in paddy cultivation, leading to savings in labour and time, better plant spacing, and increased yield.

8. Entrepreneurship and Market Linkages

KVKs encourage agri-entrepreneurship by training rural youth and SHGs in areas like mushroom cultivation, value-added products, nursery management, livestock farming, and apiculture. Many KVKs also assist in:
o Business planning and startup support
o Linking with banks for credit
o Participating in exhibitions and fairs
o Branding and labeling of products

KVKs have facilitated the formation of FPOs and SHGs engaged in ginger, pineapple, and turmeric value chains. With technical support from KVKs, some SHGs have started marketing their products under brand names.

9. Collaboration with Line Departments and NGOs

KVKs do not work in isolation. They collaborate with the State Agriculture Department, Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Veterinary, NABARD, ATMA, and local NGOs to synergize efforts.

This collaboration helps in reaching a larger number of farmers and ensuring convergence of schemes like PKVY, RKVY, MIDH, and PM-KISAN.Regular meetings of Scientific Advisory Committees (SACs) are conducted to plan and review activities, ensuring alignment with district development priorities.

10. Innovative Campaigns and Outreach Activities

KVKs actively participate in national campaigns and organize special outreach programs, such as: Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Jai Shakti Abhiyan Poshan Maah Mahila Kisan Diwas World Soil Day Technology Week Field days, kisan ghosthis, and farmer-scientist interactions.

Through these events, KVKs not only disseminate scientific knowledge but also foster a sense of community participation and environmental stewardship among farmers.

Case Studies

A. Promotion of Integrated Farming System in Churachandpur

KVK Churachandpur introduced a holistic Integrated Farming System (IFS) model among tribal farmers, combining crop cultivation with piggery, poultry, fishery, and horticulture. This system improved food security, enhanced incomes by over 60%, and reduced climate vulnerability.

B. Mushroom Development in Imphal West

KVK Imphal West implemented a "Market Place Model of Mushroom Development" under the NABARD-funded FSDD-FSPF project. The initiative trained over 300 rural youths and women, established mushroom production units, and linked them with local markets, creating sustainable livelihoods.

Conclusion

The KVKs of Manipur have played a transformative role in revitalizing agriculture in the state. By acting as a link between research institutions and grassroots farming communities, KVKs have brought about technology-led development, empowered rural youth and women, promoted sustainable practices, and enhanced farm incomes.

In the coming years, with greater support, digital integration, and convergence with national schemes, KVKs can become even more dynamic change agents in ensuring food and livelihood security in Manipur, while preserving its unique agro-ecological heritage.