ICAR-KVK Longleng conducted a five-day natural farming training for 32 farmers at Pongching village, covering sustainable farming practices, natural input preparation and soil health management.
DIMAPUR — The ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Longleng, conducted a five-day training programme on natural farming at Pongching village in Longleng district from September 10 to 14.
According to a press release issued by KVK Longleng, the programme was organised to enhance farmers’ technical knowledge and practical skills in adopting sustainable, low-cost and eco-friendly farming practices.
A total of 32 farmers participated in the training, which comprised technical sessions, practical demonstrations, farmer–expert interactions and field-level discussions on various aspects of natural farming.
The training covered the principles and importance of natural farming, chemical-free farming, soil health management, seed treatment, nutrient management, botanical pest and disease management, mulching, crop residue management and climate-resilient farming practices suited to Nagaland’s agroecological conditions.
Practical demonstrations were conducted on the preparation and use of Beejamrit, Jeevamrit, Neemastra and Agniastra. Farmers were also trained to utilise locally available farm resources, including livestock-based inputs and plant materials, to prepare natural farming formulations and reduce dependence on external agricultural inputs.
Also read: Nagaland Education Association conducts workshop on AI, SWAYAM
The programme emphasised soil microbial health, moisture conservation, prevention of soil erosion, recycling of farm biomass and diversified and intercropping-based farming systems. Particular attention was given to mulching and crop residue management to improve soil health, conserve moisture and enhance the resilience of farming systems.
The training was led by Shubhendu Kumar Behera, Subject Matter Specialist at ICAR–KVK, Longleng, who coordinated the programme and conducted the technical sessions and practical demonstrations. It was held under the guidance of the Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR–KVK, Longleng, with technical support from KVK experts and invited resource persons.
The programme concluded with a valedictory session, participant feedback, assessment and distribution of certificates to the trainees.
The KVK stated that the training was aimed at strengthening farmers’ technical capacity and promoting the adoption of natural farming practices in the district. The knowledge and skills gained are expected to help farmers produce and utilise natural farm inputs, reduce dependence on costly external inputs, improve soil health and develop more sustainable, resilient and economically viable farming systems.