The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Kobulong block, Mokokchung, inaugurated a “Farm School on sustainable colocasia production” at Sungratsu village on August 12 to promote improved and sustainable farming practices among farmers.
Colocasia is extensively cultivated by farmers in the village for Nuoshi production. With the increasing area under cultivation, the programme aimed to equip farmers with better production and crop management practices.
C Amongla Jamir, Block Technology Manager, Kobulong block, explained the concept of the farm school and highlighted its focus on “learning by doing” and farmer-to-farmer extension. She also briefed participants on activities including frontline demonstrations on integrated crop management, integrated pest management (IPM) and integrated nutrient management (INM).
A training on farmer-friendly integrated pest management technologies for colocasia production was also conducted. Resource person Imtisenla, Assistant Chief Technical Officer (Agronomy), KVK Mokokchung, discussed field preparation, major pests and diseases, their life cycles, damage and management practices. She stressed the importance of quality planting material and proper seed treatment.
Bio-pesticides were distributed to farmers at the end of the programme. A total of 16 farmers and ATMA staff participated.