Chandel farmers urged to upgrade farming methods
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 27 2024:
In a move towards enhancing agricultural practices and bolstering livelihood of the farmers, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel organised an input distribution-cum-capacity building programme under National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project at the conference hall of KVK Chandel on Monday.
According to a statement of KVK, Chandel, the programme included distribution of groundnut and soybean seeds, alongside various saplings to progressive farmers with the stated objective to equip farmers with essential resources for their agricultural endeavours.
Speaking at the event, KVK Chandel senior scientist and head Dr A Ameeta Devi emphasised the importance of integrated farming practices and encouraged farmers to adopt a holistic approach to farming to maximise both productivity and returns.
She expressed her hope for farmers to make extra efforts in the upcoming cropping season.
Addressing the gathering, SMS (Plant Breeding) Ts Leenda Monsang delved into the intricacies of groundnut, soybean, and improved varieties of paddy farming practices.
From planting to harvesting, she outlined the package of scientific practices aimed at optimising crop yield and also called upon the farmers to embrace scientific and improved technologies for sustainable farming.
Meanwhile, NICRA nodal officer Dr Kangjam Sonamani reaffirmed KVK Chandel's unwavering dedication to uplift farmers' livelihood and advised farmers to move away from traditional mono-crop-ping practices but adapt to changing weather patterns.
He also stressed the importance of sequential farming to enhance productivity and conserve resources while advocating renovation of farm ponds to augment water storage capacity, particularly in light of erratic rainfall patterns.
The nodal officer further underscored the significance of environmental conservation and advised the farmers to refrain from indiscriminate deforestation.
While highlighting the importance of growing drought-resistant crops to mitigate crop failure risks, Dr Sonamani also encouraged farmers to stay informed about weather updates through social media channels.
The programme witnessed participation of 38 farmers and KVK Chandel staff, underscoring the collaborative efforts towards agricultural advancement and farmer empowerment in the district, the statement added.