The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) in Mokokchung district recently organized two separate programs aimed at enhancing farmers’ knowledge, skills, and adoption of sustainable practices.
From August 20 to 22, ATMA Changtongya Block conducted a three-day training program that included sessions on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), post-harvest management, and demonstrations on winter vegetable crops. Shilunokdang, ATM, introduced eco-friendly pest control methods, while Recha, Assistant Horticulture Officer, emphasized value addition and better marketability of farm produce. Demonstrations led by Amenla Jamir and Toshirenla T. Longkumer highlighted improved cultivation techniques.
A key feature of the event was the inauguration of a Farm School on Stingless Beekeeping, designed to promote meliponiculture as an alternative income source. ATMA also distributed inputs such as sticky traps, pheromone traps, neem oil, seeds, seedling trays, vermicompost, neem cake powder, spades, and rubber gloves to farmers for practical application of the training. Farmers, Self Help Group members, and rural youth actively participated in the initiative.
On August 28, ATMA Kobulong Block organized a capacity building program on “Sustainable Farming Practices for Improving Soil Health” at Longpa village. Resource person Imtilemla, Assistant Chief Technical Officer (Soil), KVK, spoke on soil testing, fertilizer application, agroforestry, and contour trenching. She further highlighted the role of organic manuring, crop rotation, and bio-fertilizers in restoring soil fertility and ensuring long-term productivity.
Twelve farmers from Yimsur Farmers’ Interest Group (all women) took part in the program, along with ATMA staff. The session concluded with the distribution of agri lime to participants.
Through these initiatives, ATMA Mokokchung reaffirmed its commitment to empowering farmers with scientific knowledge, sustainable practices, and input support, with the vision of promoting innovation and resilience in agriculture across the district.