LUNGLA, Apr 27: A capacity-building programme on the balanced use of fertilizers, along with distribution of agricultural inputs under the Tribal Sub-Plan, was successfully conducted at Karma Wangchu Convention Hall in Lungla on Monday.
The programme was jointly organized by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Tawang.
Addressing the gathering, local MLA Tsering Lhamu highlighted the immense potential of agriculture and horticulture in Lungla. Drawing from her experience as a progressive farmer prior to entering politics, she spoke about introducing crops such as arecanut and Miyazaki mango, and encouraged farmers to take up cultivation of guava, persimmon, kiwi, and other horticultural crops. She also lauded KVK Tawang for supplying millet seeds, especially VL Mandua 376, along with millet threshers.
The MLA urged farmers to avail benefits from government schemes such as ANBY, ANKY, and ANPPY to achieve self-reliance. She also advocated organic farming practices and raised concern over recurring wildfires in the region.
In his address, Dr MC Meena, Director of IARI, ICAR New Delhi, elaborated on the benefits of the Tribal Sub-Plan scheme and stressed the need for adopting modern scientific practices to enhance agricultural productivity and processing. He emphasized the importance of soil health, regular soil testing, and measures to prevent soil erosion, adding that future agricultural growth would depend on maintaining balanced nutritional quality.
Lungla ZPM Thutan Gombu, FPC Chairperson Nawang Chonzom, public leader Jambey Tenzin, and Circle Officer Phamhoi Wangsu also addressed the gathering.
During the programme, Dr CK Singh, SMS (Agronomy), KVK Tawang, was felicitated by the MLA for his significant contribution to popularizing the high-yielding millet variety VL Mandua 376 in Tawang district, particularly in the Lungla region.
The programme concluded with distribution of agricultural inputs to farmers by MLA Lhamu, followed by a vote of thanks proposed by public leader Tashi Dargey. (DIPRO)