The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Mon recently organized two specialized training programs under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) to equip local farmers with sustainable agriculture practices.
From January 19 to 23, KVK Mon hosted a five-day training on Integration of Livestock in Natural Farming for 25 Community Resource Persons (CRPs) from Totok Chingha, Aopao, Langmeing, Choknyu, and Aboi villages at its Aboi campus.
Participants were introduced to natural farming principles, farming systems, seed systems, and ecosystem services, as well as soil health, nutrient management, and pest and disease management of crops. The training also emphasized the integration of livestock into natural farming and the use of Indigenous Traditional Knowledge and Models. On the final day, farmers received hands-on demonstrations for preparing Jeevamrit and Beejamrit, bio-fertilizers essential for natural farming. The program was conducted under the supervision of Dr Rongsensusang, ACTO (Animal Science), KVK Mon.
Following this, on January 24, KVK Mon conducted a one-day training on management of insect pests and diseases for 89 farmers and SHG members from ten villages. Dr. V. Akashe Zhimomi, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Mon, introduced participants to the National Mission on Natural Farming, while K. Konwang Konyak, KU President, Aboi unit, encouraged farmers to adopt emerging scientific techniques in agriculture.
During technical sessions, Dr Ruopfüselhou Kehie, Assistant Chief Technical Officer (Plant Protection), trained participants on pest and disease management in natural farming, including the release and conservation of natural enemies, use of pheromone traps, and trap cropping. E. Renbomo Ngullie, Assistant Chief Technical Officer (Horticulture), provided guidance on kharif potato cultivation under natural farming methods. The program began with an invocation by L. Konjei Konyak.
Both programs aimed to strengthen the skills of local farmers, promote sustainable agriculture, and enhance the adoption of natural farming practices in Mon district.