Farmer Scientist Interaction Programme Promotes Sustainable Agriculture and Crop Diversification
Pakyong, February 20:
A Farmer–Scientist Interactive Programme was successfully conducted today at Budang Ward under Budang Kamarey GPU, Duga Block, Pakyong District. The programme was organised by ATMA Pakyong in collaboration with the Agriculture & Horticulture Department, with the gracious presence of the Joint Director (Horticulture), Deputy Director (Agriculture), Senior Scientist from KVK, Block officials from Forest and Veterinary Services, PMFBY Coordinators, FPO representatives, and departmental staff.
The programme commenced with a welcome address outlining the objectives of the interaction and emphasizing the importance of strengthening farmer–scientist linkages. The Deputy Director (Agriculture) encouraged farmers to actively adopt improved and scientific agricultural practices to enhance productivity and income generation. She elaborated on various ongoing departmental schemes, with special emphasis on the RAD (Rainfed Area Development) scheme. Awareness on quinoa cultivation and other crop diversification opportunities was also shared to promote resilient and sustainable farming systems.
The Senior Scientist from KVK provided valuable technical guidance on several critical aspects of crop management, including:
• Management of root-knot nematodes
• Nutrient management in crop cultivation
• Control of red ants and ant infestations
• Management of Fall Armyworm (FAW) and blight in maize
• Potato blight management
• Organic seed treatment in Dalle chilli
• Importance of soil pH management and lime application
• Use of organic inputs such as neem oil and neem cake
• Benefits of optimal crop spacing and crop rotation to improve yield
An interactive session followed, where farmers actively discussed field-level challenges and received scientific recommendations and practical solutions from the experts.
The programme concluded with enthusiastic participation from farmers and a collective commitment towards adopting improved, sustainable, and climate-resilient agricultural practices.
At the end of the programme, maize and quinoa seeds were distributed to the participating farmers to encourage crop diversification and strengthen improved cultivation practices under the ongoing schemes.
