By TC News Desk
Agartala, 7th December 2024: In a landmark event highlighting the drive toward sustainable agriculture, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Dhalai in collaboration with Hindustan Insecticide Limited (HIL) India hosted a Farmer Training and Awareness Programme on Saturday. Held at Salema Town Hall as part of the Krishi Swarna Samriddhi Week celebrations, the programme focused on empowering farmers with eco-friendly crop protection techniques and promoting Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
The programme brought together dignitaries including Bina Das Biswas, Chairperson of Salema Panchayat Samiti, who inaugurated the event as chief guest. She was accompanied by Bimal Debbarma, Chairman of BAC, Salema and Apuba Poddar, Panchayat Pradhan of Salema Gram Panchayat along with key representatives from local governing bodies and HIL India.
During the event, experts highlighted the importance of reducing the use of Persistent Organic Pollutants (PoPs) and Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs). “Sustainable agriculture is the cornerstone of our future,” said T.A. Partha Pratim Pradhan, RSO at HIL India. “Through IPM, we can boost crop productivity while minimizing environmental risks and safeguarding public health.”
The programme emphasized eco-friendly solutions, including biopesticides derived from natural sources such as Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis, neem-based botanical pesticides, and innovations like pheromone traps and drone-assisted pesticide application. These techniques align with global calls for reducing chemical dependency in farming practices.
“Krishi Choupal” launches, bridging science and farming
Later in the day, participants gathered for the live viewing of the inaugural episode of “Krishi Choupal,” an initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Aired from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the episode showcased 54 new crop varieties recently released by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). These varieties are designed to improve climate resilience and boost profitability for farmers during the Rabi season.
“‘Krishi Choupal’ serves as a vital bridge between farmers and scientists,” remarked an official. “By raising awareness about modern agricultural technologies and fostering dialogue, it paves the way for innovation and growth.”
Both initiatives reflect a collective commitment to empowering farmers with knowledge and tools to enhance productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. Such efforts are instrumental in fostering a resilient and prosperous agricultural ecosystem.
