ICAR KVK Demonstrated Low Cost Water Harvesting Structure Jalkund
ICAR KVK undertook the vision of Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi for efficient utilization of water under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojna (PMKSY). A training cum demonstration programme on low-cost water harvesting structure Jalkund and efficient utilization in high value crops was organized by ICAR - Krishi Vigyan Kendra, East Sikkim, ICAR Ranipool at Thanka, Martam on July 28, 2016 with a view to harvest the water during rainy season in low cost water harvesting structure (Jalkund) and their efficient utilization for rabi season crops. Total of 36 nos. of progressive farmers of Thanka village, East Sikkim participated in the program. Eleven Silpaulin plastic (250 gsm) for Jalkund varying capacity of 30,000 l of water was distributed to the farmers.
Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest Dr. R.K. Avasthe, Joint Director, ICAR - NOFRI stressed on the importance of water harvesting structure Jalkund in this changing climate scenario. He encouraged the farmers to use stored water economically for various farm activities which is the most acceptable and profitable particularly to those facing crisis due to water scarcity. This economically viable and easily adoptable technology needs to be popularized in large sectors to overcome water stress during rabi season. He motivated the farmers to develop agri-prenurial ability towards the organic seed production to uplift their livelihood as well as self sufficiency in seed since there is a huge demand of organic seeds in the state.
Dr. Raghavendra Singh, Programme Coordinator (I/c) and Sr. Scientist (Agronomy), ICAR- NOFRI detailed the organic package and practices in maize based cropping system for black gram and buckwheat. He emphasized on the importance of inclusion of leguminous crops in cropping system. With a view to increase cropping intensity and especially for soil fertility improvement he urged the farming community to adopt zero till technology for rabi season and pre rabi season crops.
Dr. R. Gopi, Scientist (Plant Pathology), ICAR - NOFRI made them aware about different diseases which largely affect the crops especially vegetables under changing climatic conditions. He urged the farmers to practice crop rotation and use organic inputs for managing the diseases in vegetables and other crops for increasing productivity.
Dr. N.J. Singh, SMS (Plant Protection) discussed about the insect pest management strategies through various approaches under organic condition. He emphasized the farmers to go for preventive measures of insect pests’ management especially under organic farming system.
Shri Boniface Lepcha, SMS (Horticulture) interacted with farmers on their technical problems of low production and productivity from the farming system under organic condition and also briefed on the role of water harvesting structure Jalkund and its judicious use during water stress condition which can empower the farming community and their livelihood status.
Demonstration for preparation of Jalkund Coordinating the programme, Dr. J.K. Singh, SMS (Plant Breeding) elaborated the farmers on the importance of quality seeds and retaining them for becoming self-dependent for cultivation by retaining seeds for the next season. Mrs. Anushree Gogoi, Programme Assistant (Home Science) assisted in the smooth execution of the programme
Mr. Sonam Tshering Bhutia, Farmers’ representative of Thanka village expressed his happiness towards the endeavors putforth by KVK East Sikkim with different agricultural technologies in the village. He further ensured more and better cooperation on behalf of the farmers towards the organization in carrying out other agricultural activities for the welfare of farming community.
Later preparation of Jalkund was demonstrated by KVK experts during the program at farmer’s field.
The programme ended with vote of thanks by Miss. Pallabi Phukan SMS (Agril. Extension).
Input distributed by Joint Director, ICAR - NOFRI
