Dignitaries with others during capacity building on Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Porba on June 13
Phek, June 13 (MExN): The ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Phek (ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema), under ICAR–ATARI, Zone VII, Umiam, organized a Sarpanch Sammelan: Capacity Building Programme on Khet Bachao Abhiyan on June 13 at Porba campus of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Phek. The programme witnessed the active participation of representatives from seven villages of Phek district, including Village Council Chairmen, Village Council members, Head Gaon Buras, village elders, and community leaders.
The event served as a platform to create awareness and strengthen community participation in safeguarding agricultural lands, improving crop productivity, and addressing challenges affecting farming systems in the district.
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Phek highlighted the objectives and importance of the ongoing campaign “Khet Bachao Abhiyan,” emphasizing the importance of soil testing, balanced nutrient management, natural farming, promotion of pulse production, and the significance of Thu-thu cattle for sustainable farming systems.
He also emphasized the need for collective efforts in protecting agricultural fields from various biotic and abiotic constraints, promoting sustainable farming practices, and ensuring food and nutritional security.
The programme was graced by Dr. Pritpal Kaur (IPS), Superintendent of Police, Phek, as the Special Guest.
In her address, Dr. Kaur encouraged village leaders to actively participate in community development initiatives and support farmers in adopting sustainable and climate-resilient livelihood practices.
She emphasized the importance of promoting organic and natural farming, integrated farming systems, the use of digital technologies in agriculture, food processing and value addition, and agro-ecotourism as key drivers of rural development, employment generation, and enhanced farm income.
She further urged the participants to work collectively towards strengthening the agricultural sector and improving the socio-economic well-being of farming communities in the district.
During the technical session, Dr. T. Esther Longkumer, CTO (Soil Science), delivered a lecture on Natural Farming and Dr. Hannah K. Asangla, CTO (Agronomy) on Integrated Farming Systems for Sustainable Agriculture.
Manjunath K. S., SMS (Horticulture), delivered a session on Organic Nutrient Management in Horticultural Crops while Keniseto Chucha, Farm Manager, highlighted various income-generating activities under agriculture and allied sectors.
Discussions were also held on the role of village institutions in mobilizing farmers, conserving natural resources, preventing crop damage, and adopting improved agricultural technologies.
The participants actively engaged in interactive sessions, sharing local experiences and identifying practical solutions to enhance agricultural development in their respective villages.
The programme concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to work together for the protection and sustainable management of agricultural lands, thereby strengthening the livelihoods of farming communities in Phek district.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Imsennaro.
