Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 10 2009:
The observance of Kisan Mela cum Technology Week which would go on for three days began since yesterday at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Sylvan in Hengbung, Senapati
district.
Second of its kind, the event aims to impart technological know-how to the farmers of Senapati district so as to increase their agricultural production.
Around 30 stalls including that of the Horticulture Department, Agriculture Department, Fisheries Department, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, SHGs and KVK Sylvan are being set up at the mela being held at the permanent structure of KVK Sylvan constructed with funding from Planning Department of the State Government.
Apart from displaying its hybrid seeds, the KVK Sylvan has also been imparting technological knowledge to the farmers through the medium of the mela which was inaugurated by Deputy Director General (Agriculture Extension) of ICAR, New Delhi Dr KD Kokate yesterday.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr KD Kokate had described KVK has technological resource centre.
Pointing out that there are in all 559 KVKs in the country including 9 in Manipur alone, Dr Kokate observed that unlike in the past, the potential of these KVKs has been recorded the lowest this year.
Noting that Manipur is a rice producing State where one hectare of land could yield 2.1 tonne, Dr Kokate, however, expressed desire for making efforts toward ensuring increased production of upto 9 tonne in one hectare through adoption of hybrid seeds.
He also announced that Rs 18 crores would be sanctioned to the 9 KVKs in Manipur and this amount should be utilised efficiently.
MLA of Saitu Assembly Constituency Haokholet Kipgen presided over the inaugural function which was also graced by Assistant Director General (Agriculture Extension) of ICAR, New Delhi Dr V Venkatasubramaniam and Administrative Officer of Foundation for Economic Services C Paul Misao as guests of honour.