Awareness cum exposure programme for farmers held under NMSHE TF-6 project at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Megahalaya.
An awareness cum exposure programme for farmers and youths of the Mawthei village was held on 5th February, 2016 at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam under Tribal Sub plan (TSP). Mawthei village in Ri-bhoi district has been selected as the monitoring and pilot study and demonstrated site under National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) TF-6 project. 40 farmers along with scientists and research fellows participated in this programme. Dr. SV Ngachan, Director, ICAR Complex for NEH Region, Umiam presided over the meeting. Dr. Anup Das, Sr. Scientist (Agronomy), highlighted about NMSHE project, its main objectives, activities and demonstrations to be conducted in the village under the programme. Dr. D.J. Rajkhowa, Principal Scientist and Head, Crop Production, laid emphasis on efficient soil and water conservation in the hills for sustainable rural livelihood. Mr. George Kharmujai, Joint Director, Department of Soil and Water Conservation, Meghalaya explained about importance of soil and water conservation in sustaining the Himalayan ecosystem. Dr. S.V. Ngachan, Director of the institute & Chairman of the function emphasized on the need for effective utilization of rice fallow lands through cultivation of rabi pulses such as pea, lentil and oil seed crops such as rapeseed-mustard, linseed etc. with residual soil moisture and application of agricultural lime. Importance of weed management in sustaining agricultural productivity was emphasized by the chairman. He asked the farming community to take active part in sustaining Himalayan agriculture through natural resource conservation and its efficient utilization. The Chairman also distributed seeds of vegetables and lining materials for making micro rain water harvesting structures among the farmers. Improved piglets were also distributed among the farmers. A field visit and interaction with the scientists and experts were also organized for giving exposure to the farmers on improved technologies such as raised and sunken bed technology for crop intensification, zero till cultivation of pulses and oilseeds, residue recycling through composting and vermicomposting technology, organic farming, integrated farming system, deep litter pig housing, improved agricultural implements etc. for sustainable hill agriculture. The farmers were appreciative about the efforts taken by the ICAR and awareness cum exposure was successful and enhanced their capacity in improved farming. Dr. K.P Mohapatra, Senior Scientist (Agroforestry) offered the vote of the thanks. NMSHE project have been funded by DST, Govt. of India.
Distribution of silpaulin sheet for making Jalkund
