Farmers fair stresses on scientific farming and market linka
Farmers fair stresses on scientific farming and market linkages
Farmers fair-cum-exhibition, organised by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Phek (ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema), was held at Porba village ground in Phek district
John Tsulise Sangtam, Dr. Girish Patil S, Dr. Sanjeev Kr.
Singh and other dignitaries releasing the seed kits during farmers fair-cum
exhibition in Porba village on Wednesday. (EM Images)
PORBA — The
farmers fair-cum-exhibition, organised by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Phek
(ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema), was held at Porba
village ground in Phek district on Wednesday.
The deputy commissioner (DC) of Phek, John Tsulise Sangtam,
who attended the event as the chief guest, inaugurated the mela and described
as the most successful event of its kind in the district. He emphasised the
need for better market awareness and collaboration among stakeholders.
He acknowledged the presence of agricultural scientists and
expressed appreciation for the scientific advancements being introduced in the
district’s farming sector. He also highlighted key challenges confronting local
farmers, stating that while they are hardworking and self-sufficient, lack of
awareness about external markets hindered growth. He stressed the importance of
continuous learning for progress.
He emphasised the significance of scientific farming,
pointing out that projects often fail when crops are introduced randomly across
the state without considering soil suitability and climatic conditions. He
praised KVK Phek for conducting soil testing and urged for more strategic crop
selection to improve agricultural productivity.
Sangtam also stressed the need for greater coordination
between different departments, citing that many projects in Nagaland fail due
to a lack of collaboration. He encouraged the Agriculture, Horticulture, and
Fisheries departments to work closely with KVK scientists to ensure successful
implementation of projects.
He further underlined the importance of unity and teamwork
in the farming community, pointing to the success of self-help groups that have
earned recognition at district, state and national levels.
Meanwhile, Dr. AS Panwar, former director of ICAR-IIFSR,
Modipuram, UP, commended farmers of Phek district for their achievements at
national and international levels. He also appreciated KVK’s efforts in
empowering the farming community.
He stressed the need for blending modern technology with
traditional knowledge and promoting technological interventions to accelerate
farming. He also highlighted the importance of introducing lighthouse farm
models through natural farming in villages and expounded on the significance of
apiculture farming in enhancing crop yields. He encouraged farmers to adopt a
more progressive mindset.
Also speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pritpal Kaur,
Superintendent of Police (SP), Phek, emphasised the need for natural farming.
She advised against relying solely on imported techniques and urged farmers to
test methods before implementation.
She also highlighted the importance of maintaining hygiene
during post-harvest processing and obtaining an FSSAI license.
Dr. Kaur advised against belittling farmers and emphasised
inculcating dignity in labour. She hailed the people of Phek district as
hardworking and resilient and stressed the need to focus on organic farming,
obtaining certification and promote naturally and locally grown produce.
Additionally, she underscored the importance of leveraging
technology for farming, adopting best practices and promoting local produce.
She further emphasised the significance of teamwork and collaboration to ensure
the success of agricultural initiatives.
Prof. AC Varshney, former vice chancellor of DUVASU,
Mathura, UP, stressed the importance of animal husbandry sector for milk and
meat production, tree plantation and the adoption of artificial intelligence
and technology in farming.
He also underscored the need for farmers, scientists and
administrators to work together.
Dr. Girish Patil S, director of ICAR, NRC on Mithun,
Nagaland, highlighted the achievements of KVK, particularly in promoting
certification for natural farming in Phek district. He emphasised that
certification would enhance the market value of agricultural products and allow
farmers to reap higher economic benefits. He encouraged farmers to acquire
certification and assured them of all possible support.
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Sanjeev Kr. Singh,
senior scientist and head of KVK Phek, who highlighted KVK Phek’s initiatives
for the welfare of the community. He informed that KVK is working towards the
creation of FPO and SHG to improve market access for the farmers.
Speeches were also delivered by progressive farmers from
Phek district.
Phek Flavours Group (SHG) enthralled the audience with a
folk song.
The programme was led by Dr. Hannah K Asangla, chief
technical officer of Agronomy at KVK Phek, while the vote of thanks was
delivered by Dr. Esther T Longkumer, chief technical officer of Soil Science at
KVK Phek.
On the occasion, a documentary video on the Zabo farming
system and vegetable seed kits developed by KVK were released by the
dignitaries.
The event brought together farmers, scientists and
agricultural experts to discuss and promote innovative farming techniques,
natural farming and market linkages for enhanced agricultural productivity.
