HAYULIANG, 2 Jun: An awareness programme on the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, along with a farmers’ orientation programme on farmer-producer organisation (FPO) management, was organised here in Anjaw district on Tuesday.
The programme on Khet Bachao Abhiyan was aimed to create awareness among the farmers on balanced use of fertilisers, natural farming, soil health conservation, reduction in edible oil consumption, climate change, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Thirty-five participants, including farmers, farmwomen, and local youths, attended the programme.
During the technical session, agronomist Kh Naveendelivered a lecture on soil health conservation and the balanced use of fertilisers. He stressed the importance of maintaining soil fertility through judicious nutrient management, and encouraged the farmers to “adopt soil testing-based fertiliser application for improving crop productivity while protecting the environment.”
Horticulture scientist Satveer Yadav spoke on the principles and benefits of natural farming under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, and encouraged the farmers to reduce dependence on chemical inputs and utilise locally available organic resources to improve soil health and crop quality while minimising production costs.
The programme also focused on creating awareness regarding climate change and its impact on agriculture. Farmers were sensitised to climate-resilient farming practices and the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural technologies to cope with changing weather patterns.
As part of the farmers’ orientation training programme on FPO management, Bijesh Maharana from the union Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ronaldo from Spice Board, Namsai, Anjaw DHO TT Hai, and Menne Ete highlighted the role of FPOs in strengthening collective marketing, improving farmers’ bargaining power, and enhancing income opportunities through value addition and market linkages.
Hayuliang-Goiliang ZPM Mantaw Bellai stressed the importance of cooperation and unity among FPO members, and urged farmers to actively engage with various line departments and avail themselves of technical guidance, schemes, and support services being provided for the development of FPOs and the agricultural sector as a whole.
In Longding district, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) launched the month-long Khet Bachao Abhiyan in Kanubari on Monday.
Around 34 farmers, farmwomen, and rural youths from nearby villages attended the programme.
Programme coordinator in-charge Vikas Bidhan, along with KVK experts highlighted the importance of timely management of crop pests and diseases, especially during the kharif season, to minimise crop losses and improve farm productivity.
The KVK scientists also emphasised on integrated farming practices, balanced use of organic inputs, field sanitation, and adoption of climate-resilient agricultural technologies.
During the event, farmers were encouraged to regularly monitor their fields and consult KVK experts for scientific advisories whenever required.
Various awareness camps, field visits, demonstrations, and farmer interactions will be organised throughout the month under the campaign.
