Officials along with the participants during the training programme on “Improved Varieties and Value Addition Technologies in Tuber Crops” conducted at Tiyi Hall in Wokha on March 12. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | March 12
A training programme on “Improved Varieties and Value Addition Technologies in Tuber Crops” was conducted at Tiyi Hall in Wokha on Thursday to enhance farmers’ knowledge on improved cultivation practices and modern technologies.
The programme was organised by the ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI), Thiruvananthapuram, in collaboration with the district administration of Wokha and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Wokha.
The training was held in convergence with Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) Wokha and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative in the district. It aimed to improve farmers’ understanding of cultivation practices, value addition and modern technologies related to tuber crops.
Delivering the special address, Deputy Commissioner of Wokha Vineet Kumar expressed appreciation to scientists from Kerala for conducting the programme in the district. He said the training reflected ongoing efforts to support farmers through technical knowledge and improved agricultural practices.
Kumar recalled that a similar programme had been conducted in the district last year and noted that such initiatives have created new opportunities for farmers in Wokha. While distribution of farm equipment is beneficial, he said, the knowledge and training imparted to farmers are even more valuable for improving productivity and sustaining agricultural practices.
He further encouraged farmers to effectively utilise the training and adopt the improved techniques shared by the experts.
Setting the context of the programme, R Muthuraj, Principal Scientist and NEH Project Principal Investigator at CTCRI, highlighted the importance of tuber crops such as cassava, sweet potato and yam in strengthening food security and rural livelihoods.
He informed that the institute is introducing improved varieties suitable for the region and is promoting modern technologies aimed at improving yield and value addition. Muthuraj also said that CTCRI is keen to continue collaboration with the district administration and farmers in Nagaland, noting that scientific farming methods and improved crop varieties could significantly benefit farmers in the region.
Earlier, the programme began with a welcome address by Thungchano S Ezung, Programme Assistant (Food Technology) at KVK Wokha, who welcomed the deputy commissioner, scientists, officials from various departments and participating farmers. She expressed hope that the training would contribute to agricultural development and improve livelihoods in the district.
The technical sessions included presentations on value addition and entrepreneurship development in tuber crops, improved production technologies and the application of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things in tuber crop cultivation.
A practical demonstration on value addition and an interaction session with farmers were also conducted. The programme concluded with the distribution of agricultural farm equipment to farmers followed by a vote of thanks.
