RONO HILLS, Mar 19: The Rural Business Incubation Centre (RuBIC), Rajiv Gandhi University and the Department of Horticulture, Rajiv Gandhi University successfully organized a comprehensive training programme on ‘Preparation of compost from agricultural waste inoculated with isolated bacteria’ from March 17 to 19 at the RGU premises here under the aegis of National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS) funded project along with a ‘Training-cum-skill development programme in management of horticultural crops’ funded by ICAR - National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi.
The programme aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices by utilizing agricultural waste efficiently through microbial inoculation techniques and also to enhance knowledge and skills of participants in modern horticultural practices.
In his address, RGU Vice Chancellor (in-charge) Prof S K Nayak emphasized the importance of ensuring well-being and sustainability for all living beings through responsible stewardship of natural resources. He further stressed the need for sustainable agricultural practices, conservation of biodiversity, and adoption of eco-friendly technologies to address the growing challenges in agriculture.
The programme was also graced by RGU Finance Officer Prof Otem Padung; Prof Manoj Kar from XIM University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha; Dr Sandeep Janghu, Dean (i/c), Faculty of Agricultural Sciences (RGU); Dr Arindam Barman, HoD Horticulture (RGU).
The training focused on converting agricultural waste into nutrient-rich compost through the use of beneficial isolated bacterial strains.
Dr Barman, and Teresa Nuski Taruk, scholar, Dept of Horticulture (RGU) demonstrated scientific methods of compost preparation, emphasizing the role of microbial inoculants in accelerating decomposition, enhancing nutrient availability, and improving soil health.
Participants, including students, farmers, and aspiring entrepreneurs, were provided hands-on exposure to composting techniques, preparation of bacterial inoculum, and proper management of organic waste. The session also highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of composting, such as reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers and promoting eco-friendly farming practices. The farmer participants were also distributed with agricultural inputs.
The distribution of agricultural inputs is expected to play a significant role in strengthening the livelihoods of farmers and boosting agricultural development in the region.
In the horticultural training segment, participants were exposed to improved crop management practices, including nutrient management, pest and disease control, and sustainable cultivation methods to increase productivity and profitability. Hands-on training on extraction of essential oil and other biochemical methods etc for management of horticultural crops was also provided to the participants.
Other resource persons, Dr Baanu Loya, CEO, RuBIC, RGU and Neha M Sangma, Dy CEO, RuBIC, RGU highlighted the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with traditional practices to achieve sustainable agricultural development. Hands-on training and interactive sessions enabled participants to gain practical exposure and a deeper understanding of the subject.
The programme concluded with an interactive session and feedback from participants, who appreciated the efforts of the organizers in conducting such informative and skill-oriented training programmes.