ICAR-KVK West Garo Hills organised a training programme on ‘IPM (integrated pest management) in Summer Vegetables’ as well as input distribution under NICRA Project at Maraparaunder, Dalu block.
The programme was led by experts Joyshree Mahanta and Sanjay Chetri. Forty-seven farmers participated. The training focused on the use of eco-friendly approaches for pest and disease management in summer vegetables, emphasising the role of beneficial microorganisms such as trichoderma (a type of fungus) and pseudomonas (a type of bacteria) for biological control and plant growth promotion.
In addition, neem oil was also provided as an effective botanical pesticide against a broad spectrum of insect pests. As part of the initiative to enhance climate resilience and income generation, quality seeds of summer vegetables including long yard bean, okra, bottle gourd, amaranthus, brinjal, chilli and ridge gourd were distributed to all participating farmers.
The programme also aimed to empower farmers with sustainable agricultural inputs and knowledge to cope with climate-induced challenges, thereby strengthening their livelihoods.