Famers of Mawlyngkhung village in Ri Bhoi district were given training on pest management techniques to save their paddy from recurring infestations.
The training programme was conducted by the Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC) Shillong in collaboration with the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) and Umsning C&RD Block yesterday.
Hundreds of paddy farmers took part in the training to equip themselves with the knowledge and necessary skills to combat pest-related challenges, which was taught to them by resource persons.
Experts from the CIPMC which included Gokulraam M, Plant Protection Officer (E), Dr. Devaraja K P, Assistant Plant Protection Officer (E), Aroti Hazarika, Assistant Plant Protection Officer (E) and Tenzing Wangden, Senior Assistant were the resource persons at the programme.
In a hands-on approach to education, the experts ventured into the paddy fields, conducting spot demonstrations on how to manage and mitigate pest attacks on crops. The practical exercise not only enhanced the farmers’ understanding but also provided them with tangible solutions for their fields.
The organisers said that the aim of the programme is to empower local farmers with essential agricultural knowledge and the event at Mawlyngkhung village stands as a shining example of how such initiatives can significantly contribute to the prosperity of the farming community and the sustainability of paddy cultivation in the region.