The VIII Edition District Level Shuri Kaso Phanat (in local dailect) or Garlic Festival cum sale at Talui village ended on Wednesday with a one day training programme on garlic plantation for garlic growers. The festival was organised by Talui Kharngarum SHG Federation for two days on 20th and 21st April. The training was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ukhrul under the initiative of Hill Wild to improve garlic productions.
“Use organic fertilizer to improve soil fertility,” said Ramsem PA, Soil Science, Subject Matter Specialist. He further encourage to do soil testing to plant according to the right type of soil. Instruction were given for collection of soil sample incase if the farmers wanted. KVK, Ukhrul can help interested farmers for soil testing, he added.
As the garlic demand is high but production has reduced, it is good to practise inter cropping and not only concentrate on Garlic,” said Yirmeila Sareo, Agronomy, Subject Matter Specialist.
Yirmeila also spoke on pest and disease management. She encouraged to give organic treatment for the soil in order to improve the yield.
“Over 200 women participated the training and 230 members from 14 SHG opened the stalls. Cash prize of 10,000 was given to Mathotmi SHG for producing more than 500 kg of garlic and consolation price of 1000 were given to all the SHGs”, said Nganunglei Vashum, Chairman, Talui Kharngarum SHG Federation to Ukhrul Times.
Ringyuichon Vashum, Director of Ukhrul District Women Institute of Micro-Credit (UDWIM), speaking on inaugural function as a Chief Guest, urged the villagers to start the process for Geographical Indication (GI) tag registration for Talui garlic due to its superior taste, unique features and shelf life as it can be preserved for long period without losing its qualities as compared with the garlic available in the market. Talui Shuri have high demand in the state market and in the neighbouring states because of its peculiar taste, Vashum said.
“According to locals, over 10,000 kgs of garlic was arranged for sale but it was sold out in couple of hours. I am very happy to witnessed the garlic festival so I will come again next year as well,” said Leimiwon Shimray.
Phungchamnao Ranreiphi Kharei
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