Chandel, Sept. 28: The ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel, successfully conducted a Capacity Building Programme on Horticultural Crop Production and Seed Production cum Interaction Programme for the Rabi season at New Songjang village, Khengjoy Block, Chandel district.
The programme witnessed active participation from 42 village chiefs, farmers, and women farmers representing Moltuk, New Songjang, Songjang, P. Chehjang, K. Sovompa, Molpibung, Khangbarol, and Lamphei villages.
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Welcoming the gathering, Thangjamang Haokip, Chief of New Songjang, lauded ICAR–KVK Chandel for reaching out to the remote villages of Khengjoy Block. He noted that farmers in such interior areas often face challenges due to limited training opportunities and called for sustained capacity-building initiatives by various departments to empower the farming community.
During the technical sessions, experts from KVK Chandel delivered lectures on improved farming practices.
- Ps. Lavid Anal, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture), highlighted modern techniques in horticultural crop production, including the use of high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties, integrated nutrient and pest management, and mulching practices. She also encouraged crop diversification by integrating vegetables, fruits, and spices to boost both nutrition and farm income.
- Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding), stressed the importance of quality seed production in improving yield and resilience. She emphasised the role of Community Seed Banks in ensuring seed security, conserving traditional varieties, and reducing dependence on external markets.
- Mr. Dehkhohao Doungel, Technical Officer (Computer), spoke on the role of agro-advisory services and social media in agriculture. He underlined how platforms like YouTube can serve as effective tools for farmers to access information, learn modern practices, and explore new markets.
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The event concluded with a lively Farmer–Scientist Interaction Session, where participants exchanged field-level experiences, clarified doubts, and explored innovative practices suitable for the Rabi season.
Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Chandel, expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic participation and reaffirmed KVK’s commitment to supporting farmers in strengthening resilient and sustainable farming systems in the district.
(This news item is as per a press release of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel issued on September 29, 2025)
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