Director bats for integrated farming
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 14 2025: Horticulture and Soil Conservation director K Devdutta Sharma has stated that integrated farming is the best farming option available in view of the effects brought on by climate change.

He stated this while speaking as guest of honour at the inaugural function of the 'Imphal East Kisan Mela-2025' organised by Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Imphal East project director in collaboration with Department of Agriculture on the theme Integrated Farming System: An approach towards Livelihood Employment of Farm Women and Natural Resource Conservation', at the District Agriculture Office complex, Imphal East on Friday.

Devdutta called ATMA heart of the Agriculture Department as it has been instrumental in imparting various technological-inputs to farmers and helping to increase the yield.

"If farmers want to consult or obtain information about something, they can contact the agency instead of coming all the way to the department," he informed.

He elaborated that integrated farming is based in agriculture, veterinary and horticulture, with horticulture playing an important role.

The director further emphasised the need for farmers to analyse different methods for better yield and profits instead of blindly following trends.

There is a need to ascertain which product is in demand in the market that is also suitable for cultivation in Manipur.

For example, Thangjing or fox nuts has high nutritional value and regarded has 'super food' and as such, in high demand in the global market.

In Manipur, Thangjing is consumed by all and readily available.

If one farms Thangjing in an area of one 'pari' of land, the farmer can earn Rs 6-7 lakh per annum.

Similarly, flowers are in high demand in present times and, growing marigold (sanarei) could be a good source of income, he said, while adding that there are many other products that could be considered.

In her speech as the chief guest, Imphal East deputy commissioner Khumanthem Diana urged farmers to adopt integrated farming and help improve their as well as the state's economy.

She also called for basing the integrated farming on organic products, adding that the same will not only improve the nutritional aspects but also ensure income security.

Presided over by Agriculture director Peter Salam, the Mela was attended by KVK Imphal East head and senior scientist Dr Y Prabhavati Devi as guest of honour.

The Mela was participated by women farmers engaged in integrated farming.

The farmers also set up stalls to showcase their products.

As part of the programme, seed money/food security awards were also distributed to the farmers.

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