ITANAGAR, Aug 26: In a significant effort to promote scientific and sustainable management of citrus orchards, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), East Kameng organized a comprehensive training and demonstration on Plant Protection and Canopy Management of Orange Plantation at its Pampoli campus on Tuesday.
The extension programme was aimed at strengthening the technical knowledge and skills of local orange growers, particularly in view of the increasing incidence of pest and disease problems, premature fruit/nut drop, declining production, and deterioration of plant health in orange plantations.
Addressing the participating farmers, Dr M C Debnath, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK East Kameng, highlighted the major constraints affecting orange production in the district. Through a PPT presentation, he explained the identification, symptoms, causes and management of important pest and disease problems, particularly trunk borer infestation and premature fruit drop, which are emerging as serious threats to the productivity and longevity of citrus orchards.
Dr Debnath also emphasized the importance of proper canopy management for maintaining healthy and productive orange plants. He explained that timely removal of unwanted branches, dead and diseased portions, as well as vigorous water shoots, is essential for improving sunlight penetration, air circulation, canopy structure and overall plant health. Proper canopy management also helps in reducing the incidence of pests and diseases and contributes to better flowering, fruit development and quality production.
As part of the practical demonstration, the farmers were trained in the preparation and application of Bordeaux paste for the management and protection of affected portions of citrus plants, particularly against trunk and stem-related problems. The correct method of preparation, proportion of ingredients, application technique and necessary precautions were demonstrated practically at the KVK campus.
The programme provided the participating farmers with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills on integrated plant protection and scientific canopy management.
The KVK team advised the farmers to adopt timely orchard sanitation, regular monitoring of pest and disease incidence, proper pruning and canopy management, and need-based plant protection measures for restoring the health and productivity of orange plantations in the district.
The programme concluded with an interaction between the scientists and farmers, during which participants discussed their field-level problems related to orange cultivation and sought technical guidance from the KVK experts.