ITANAGAR, Apr 26: A farmers–scientist interaction programme was held at Motum village in East Siang district.
Addressing the farmers and SHGs at the programme, Dr Kadirval Govindasamy, Director ICAR –ATARI (Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute), Zone VI (Guwahati), emphasized the importance of maintaining a nutritional garden to meet family nutritional needs, ensuring nutritional security, and ultimately achieving zero hunger in the village.
The chief guest told the farmers that a hunger-free village can benefit economies, health, education and social development.
Dr Kadirval also encouraged sustainable food choices, supporting good nutrition, and reducing food waste through processing. Further, he suggested that Self-Help Groups (SHGs) can start Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in the village to maximize benefits and bypass middlemen in agricultural sales.
Dr B N Hazarika, Dean CHF (CAU), advised the farmers to adopt an integrated farming system in the village.
Dr Rajesh Kumar, Principal Scientist, ICAR-ATARI, Guwahati, also discussed double cropping, specifically the cultivation of toria after rice cultivation.
From CHF (CAU, Pasighat), Dr R C Shakywar shared insights into the scientific cultivation of oyster mushrooms, while Dr P Debnathspoke about utilizing kitchen waste for home composting for maintaining soil health.
Sr Scientist & Head KVK East Siang, Dr S M Hussain highlighted the activities of KVK in the village.
Other scientists of KVK East Siang namely Dr Toge Riba, Dr Th E Vida and Dr Neeta Longjam also spoke on various aspects related to pest and disease management in horticultural crops, secondary agriculture and poultry management.
The programme saw a total turnout of 72 farmers.
Later, summer vegetable seeds were distributed to the participating farmers.