Union Minister G Kishan Reddy and others during the inauguration of the state soil testing laboratory in Kohima on September 24. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 24
Union Minister for Tourism, Culture & DoNER, G Kishan Reddy today inaugurated the state soil testing laboratory in Kohima at the Directorate of Soil & Water Conservation.
Speaking during the occasion, Reddy said that the Government of India has been at the forefront of ensuring that soil quality is effectively managed to make agriculture more productive, sustainable and climate resilient; to conserve natural resources.
He said that Soil Health Management is one of the most important interventions under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA).
The Union Minister said that establishment of soil testing laboratory, building & equipments will help boost agriculture by enabling systematic collection of soil samples and analysis. It will also aid in timely generation of test reports through soil health cards, he said adding that fertile soil can make a major difference on the quality and yield in agricultural and horticultural products.
The Minister hoped that this laboratory will benefit farmers of Nagaland, research scholars, students, and policy makers.
Also speaking on the occasion, Nagaland Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Neiba Kronu said that Nagaland has rich biodiversity and with fertile soil, anything can grow in the state.
However, Mhe minister said the state is facing drought-like situation this year and requested the Union Minister to help the state. Stating that soil testing has become a very important factor, he said without soil testing, crop zoning would not be feasible.
Soil & Water Conservation Director, K Zhekheto Awomi said the North Eastern Council (NEC) is the funding agency for the construction of the state soil testing laboratory. The project commenced on March 29, 2018 with a project cost of Rs 371.70 lakh (NEC share 90% and State share 10%).
The laboratory will assess the nutrient and fertilizer status of the soil, create awareness about maintaining soil health, issue soil health card, and create awareness on balanced use of fertilizers.
The programme was chaired by K Libanthung Lotha, Commissioner & Secretary for Soil & Water Conservation while vote of thanks was proposed by AS Hovuto Zhimomi, Joint Director.
