A three-day training programme for state and district officials on ‘Natural Farming’ at the College of Agriculture at Kyrdemkulai, Ri-Bhoi.
The programme ran from May 13 to 15. Natural farming is a chemical-free, traditional farming approach that emphasises using locally available resources and ecological processes to promote sustainable agriculture by integrating crops, trees and livestock while avoiding synthetic fertilisers and pesticides.
A total of 43 participants took part. M Victoria Devi, Assistant Professor in Agricultural Extension coordinated the programme. S Rani, Joint Director of Horticulture, highlighted cow-based farming, history of low chemical use and the integration of livestock into agricultural practices in his address. He urged for collaborative programmes between the college, its parent body the Central Agricultural University, Imphal, and state departments.
Prof Ram Singh, Dean of the college, noted in his welcome address that around 10 lakh hectares of land have been brought under natural farming across India. Singh also highlighted the launch of a BSc (Hons) programme in Natural Farming at the college.
The training emphasised the National Mission on Natural Farming, its principles and objectives for bringing sustainable development in the country. Subject experts imparted their expertise and knowledge to the participants.
