Farmers trained on balanced fertiliser use
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 16 2026: The State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute under the Agriculture Department, Government of Manipur, on Saturday organised a training programme on balanced fertiliser use at the Farmers Training Hall, Sanjenthong, Imphal.

Themed 'Balanced Use of Fertiliser with the Objective to Enhance Farmers' Knowledge and Capacity on Scientific, Soil Test-Based and Balanced Use of Fertilisers for Improving Crop Productivity, Soil Health and Sustainable Agriculture', the programme drew farmers and fertiliser dealers from across Manipur.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Agriculture, T Pamei said many farmers apply chemical fertilisers, insecticides and pesticides without following norms, harming human health and soil fertility.

He stressed reducing chemical use and maintaining balance, noting Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also appealed for the same.

Director Peter Salam called it "unfortunate" that farmers ignore soil health cards issued after soil testing.

He said excess urea use is common due to the misconception that more fertiliser means higher yield.

"Like giving too many vitamins won't make a person grow faster, excess fertiliser harms soil", he said.

He called for a collective resolve among farmers to reduce chemical fertiliser use, improve productivity, save costs and protect soil health.

During the day-long training, Dr N Surbala, Head, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, CAU, spoke on 'Ill Effects of Imbalanced Use of Fertiliser' .

Dr T Basanta, Senior Scientist, ICAR Manipur, discussed 'Optimum Use of Fertiliser: Replacement of Urea and DAP by Ammonium Sulphate, SSP, Biofertiliser', while Birjit Yanglem, Assistant Nodal Officer, NMNF, Agriculture Department, presented on 'Promotion of Natural Farming in Manipur' .

Representatives of fertiliser dealers and farmer representative Laishram Gokulchandra also shared their views.

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