EMN
Dimapur, April 14
The Farmers’ Fair in Medziphema has concluded on April 13. The event was organized by the Farmers Cell of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD) in collaboration with Land Resources department. The event, showcasing produce and local agricultural products, has started on April 12.
The director of the department of Agriculture, D Soukhrie, was the chief guest of the valedictory function. In his speech, Soukhrie expressed appreciation to the organizers for conducting the fair saying that farmers need to learn about latest technologies ‘so that they can cope with the challenges they face’ and ‘to keep up with the rest of the world.’
The Pro Vice Chancellor of SASRD, Prof. NS Jamir, and Prof. M Aleminla Ao, dean, as well as officials from the departments of Agriculture and Land Resources, and the KVK, and Nagaland University were also present during the valedictory programme.
96 farmers from 10 districts led by 10 officials, besides members of 8 self-help groups had attended the event. There were altogether 10 exhibition stalls. On the second day of the fair, field demonstrations were conducted by the SASRD on soil testing, and demonstration of tools and implements, agricultural engineering, vermin-compost, straw mulching and weed control measures as well as seed germination tests and seed treatment; grafting techniques and management of black pepper. The AICRP-V of the SASRD demonstrated drip irrigation and walk-in-tunnel techniques as well, the organizers informed.
After the demonstrations, there was an interaction between the scientists and farmers. It was followed by the valedictory programme where farmers and innovators offered feedbacks. A farmer from Zunheboto district said that the simple technology of soil testing, which was demonstrated during the event, was one of the ‘best things’ he learned. The unidentified farmer hoped that such trainings would be conducted regularly and over longer periods so that they would learn more.
Another farmer from Socünoma village, the organizers said but did not identify him either, said that through the demonstrations and technical sessions she could learn ‘many new things which she was not aware about.’
Nihokhu Chopi, an innovator, expressed gratitude for the platform given to him to share his experiences and knowledge with fellow farmers as well as to exhibit their products.
The chief guest gave away certificates, seeds, and farm implements to the participating farmers.
