ATMA Mon holds training on integrated pest management and water harvesting for farmers in Mon.
Share
DIMAPUR — The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Mon, conducted a two-day training programme on “Integrated pest management and low-cost water harvesting structures” in Mon on April 13 and the 14th.
The programme aimed to equip participants with essential skills in integrated farming practices. It also sought to bridge the gap between traditional farming methods and modern agricultural technologies, an update stated.
During the first session, resource persons highlighted the importance of combining traditional, eco-friendly practices with modern biological pest control methods.
They emphasised avoiding synthetic chemicals and encouraged the use of locally available botanical pesticides such as neem, tobacco, and wild ferns.
The speakers also stressed the adoption of practices like intercropping and crop rotation. Farmers were encouraged to release bio-agents and use tricho-cards to control pest populations.
Also read: ANPR cameras, safety measures rolled out at Dimapur accident hotspots
Nagaland CM reviews road, tourism projects in Lower Tizu during 4-day visit
These methods help maintain a sustainable ecosystem while keeping pest levels below the Economic Threshold Level (ETL).
In the second session, participants were trained on constructing low-cost water harvesting structures using locally available materials. They were also taught how to build contour bunds and trenches.
The technique involves creating shallow, parallel trenches along contour lines of a hillside. These are constructed perpendicular to the flow of water to capture runoff.
The method helps reduce soil erosion and improves water infiltration, thereby enhancing soil moisture retention.
The resource persons for the programme included I Nuchet Ao and N Subenthung Odyuo, deputy project directors, and Lensanok Tzuwar, assistant technology manager, ATMA Mon.
Earlier, the programme began with an invocation prayer by Mariam, women leader of Lampong Sheanghah.
The training programme witnessed active participation from attendees.