Introduction of HYV maize and integration of livestock emphasized
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 20 2018:
ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Imphal inaugurated two days training cum input injection programme on "Maize-Livestock Integration for Improving Livelihood and Nutritional Security of Small and Marginal Farmers" at ICAR Imphal today.
The programme was conducted in collaboration with ICAR- Indian Institute of Maize Research, PAU Campus, Ludhiana, Punjab.
Dr I Meghachandra Singh, Joint Director, ICAR Manipur centre, Dr M A Ansari, Scientist and Principal Investigator of the project and Dr Arati Ningombam, Scientist, Entomolgy of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Imphal attended the programme as dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries emphasized on introduction of suitable high yielding varieties (Quality protein maize) of maize and integration with livestock.
High yielding varieties (HYV) of maize widely adopted in other parts of country, but most of the farmers are growing low yielding local varieties, low yielding in the NER which are often affected by fluctuation in the climatic change.
Maize is the second most important crop, next to rice in Manipur and it is mostly grown in rainfed and uplands.
In the region, maize production plays a significant role in ensuring food security and is used both for direct consumption and as well as for second cycle produce in piggery and poultry farming.
Maize crop is gaining immense popularity due to its wider adaptability to climatic variation and its resilience to climatic stress.
There is a tremendous scope to increase maize productivity in the region.
Maize grain is not only important for human consumption but also provide integral feed for poultry and other livestock.
The training covered lectures on cultivation practices especially in hilly slopes, fertilizer management, pest and disease management, soil management, value addition, significance of maize in livestock feed, practical etc.
During the programme, ICAR, Manipur centre distributed quality seeds of Maize (HQPM 5) and other critical inputs for 20 ha area and other critical inputs to Thinglhang Farmer Association of Kangchup village areas, Kangpokpi districts which comprises 42 farmers from six different villages namely Patzang, Lhangjol, Polnlen, Moljol, Kamhom and Phaijol villages.