ICAR stressed on climate resilient cropping system to cope up with climate change.
In order to increase the cropping intensity from existing 117 to 300 per cent in the state, Krishi Vigyan Kendra and ICAR Sikkim Centre organized training cum input support programme on August 11, 2015 at Chuja, 14th Mile, East Sikkim. A climate resilient rainfed cropping system “Maize (green cob)-Pahelo dal-Buckwheat” developed by ICAR Sikkim Centre under NICRA project is being popularized in Sikkim. A total 51 nos. of progressive farmers of Burung, Yangthang, Sangkhola and Chuja, 14th Mile, East Sikkim district participated in the programme. In the programme, organically produced quality seed of pahenlo dal was distributed among the farmers for the demonstration of climate resilient cropping system after harvesting maize followed by pulse crop and buckwheat in Rabi season in the aforesaid villages. The technology mainly emphasizes on growing of three crops under moisture stress condition as experienced during winter season.
Dr. R.K. Avasthe, Joint Director, ICAR Sikkim Centre chaired the program and encouraged the farmers to undertake the above mentioned technology in vast areas to enhance the production and productivity so that commercialization of crops can be done in the state. He emphasized on the importance of organic farming and their beneficial effects on community. He also stressed upon agri-prenurial ability towards the organic seed production by the farmers to uplift their livelihood as well as self sufficiency in seed since there is huge demand of organic seeds in the state.
Dr. Raghavendra Singh, Sr. Scientist (Agronomy) and PC (I/c) KVK East Sikkim, ICAR Sikkim Centre welcomed the gathering and detailed about the maize based climate resilient cropping system which can be a tool suitable in changing climatic scenario. He explained about the improved packages and practices for cultivation of pahenlo dal.
Shri B. B. Lopchan, Ex. Chairman, SC & ST appreciated the efforts of KVK East Sikkim, ICAR Sikkim Centre in reaching out with the scientific personnel to the farmers’ door step for the benefit of the farming community. He further assured better cooperation on behalf of the farmers towards the organization through development of other agricultural activities for the welfare of farming community.
During the programme Dr. J. K. Singh, SMS (Plant Breeding), Dr. N. Johnson Singh, SMS (Plant Protection) and Sh. Boniface Lepcha, SMS (Horticulture) interacted with the farmers for relevant cultivation practices, pests and diseases management etc. Deepti Gazmer (HSW) assisted in the programme. At the end of the program, Sh. Boniface Lepcha proposed the vote of thanks.
