ATMA Sechü-Zubza conducted demonstrations in Mengujuma on bio compost preparation and Azolla cultivation, highlighting their benefits for soil fertility, livestock feed, and sustainable farming.
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DIMAPUR — The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Sechü-Zubza block conducted a demonstration on the preparation of bio compost and its application and a demonstration on Azolla cultivation at Mengujuma on September 8.
Bio compost is a natural process that involves the decomposition of organic materials such as plant residues, kitchen waste, and farm waste into a source of low-cost organic fertiliser that enhances soil fertility and promotes healthy plant growth by returning essential nutrients to the soil.
According to an update, by introducing ‘waste decomposer’ as a catalyst for faster decomposition of organic wastes, the step-by-step process of preparation of bio compost as well as its application was demonstrated to the participants.
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Azolla, being an aquatic fern, appears like a mat over water and is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is also a rich source of amino acids, minerals, and vitamins essential for livestock. It has various benefits, such as improving egg quality and production, improving the quality of milk, and reducing fodder requirements and feed costs.
A hands-on demonstration was conducted whereby a slurry of cow dung was added to a shallow pond. Thereafter, Azolla caroliniana culture was inoculated into the pond. The culture will start multiplying after 7–10 days, after which the farmers can start harvesting the azolla.
The resource persons for this training were Ketsivino Nakhro, atm, and Kajini Isabella Zinyü, btm. Altogether, 10 farmers participated in this demonstration programme.