The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Kobulong block, Mokokchung, inaugurated a Natural Farming FarmSchool at Mangkolong Mopungchuket village on Tuesday to promote sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices among farmers.
The FarmSchool aims to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides by encouraging the use of locally available natural inputs, improving soil health, conserving biodiversity and reducing cultivation costs.
Block Technology Manager, Kobulong block, C. Amongla Jamir, explained the concept of the FarmSchool and highlighted that it is based on the principle of “learning by doing” with a focus on farmer-to-farmer extension. She also briefed the participants on key activities under FarmSchools, including frontline demonstrations on integrated crop management, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM).
As part of the programme, a training on the principles and practices of natural farming was conducted by Imtilemla, Agricultural Extension Officer (Soil), Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Mokokchung. She highlighted the importance of natural farming and provided detailed insights into the use of locally available resources, maintenance of soil fertility, biodiversity conservation and eco-friendly crop production practices.
Participants were also given practical demonstrations on preparing and using natural farming inputs such as Beejamrit, Jeevamrit and other bio-inputs, along with guidance on integrated pest and disease management.
At the conclusion of the programme, neem cake, neem saplings and information leaflets were distributed to farmers. A total of 19 farmers, along with ATMA staff, attended the programme.