'Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav' campaign promotes balanced fertilizer use, soil health
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 17 2026: An intensive campaign on balanced use of fertilizers and soil health for sustainable crop production under the "Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav" programme was held on Sunday at Chanam Sandrok village, Imphal East.

A total of 79 farmers, including 17 women, took part in the programme along with scientists, local leaders, and members of the farming community.

Keirao AC MLA Lourembam Rameshor Singh, attended as chief guest.

Dr Soibam Basanta Singh, Head of the Regional Centre, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, was the guest of honour.

In his address, Rameshor Singh highlighted the origin and heritage of the indigenous Manipuri cattle, popularly known as "Meitei San" .

He stressed the role of cattle rearing in strengthening the rural economy and improving farmers' livelihoods, and urged the community to preserve and promote indigenous livestock for sustainable agricultural development.

Dr Soibam Basanta Singh called for scientific conservation and communitybased management of indigenous cattle.

He underlined the need to preserve local breeds through scientific interventions and collective participation of villagers and farmers.

Dr N Anando Singh, Senior Scientist (Agronomy), ICAR RC for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, spoke on pulse cultivation for enhancing soil fertility, improving soil health, and creating income opportunities for small and marginal farmers.

He encouraged adoption of pulse-based cropping systems for sustainable agriculture.

Dr Ch Roben Singh, SMS, ICAR-KVK Imphal West, conducted a session on balanced use of fertilizers and scientific rice cultivation practices to boost productivity while maintaining soil health.

Other resource persons shared insights on natural farming, eco-friendly practices, and reducing dependence on chemical inputs.

High-yielding rice varieties RC Maniphou-13 and RC Maniphou-16, pulse seeds including black gram and green gram, and battery-operated power sprayers were distributed to participating farmers to promote scientific and sustainable practices.

The programme ended with an interactive session where farmers discussed agricultural and livestock-related issues with experts.

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