The North Eastern Region Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institute conducted an awareness program in Cheyanichick village, Jamugurihat, Sonitpur District, to tackle crop residue management and promote sustainable land restoration practices. In partnership with Shymal Farmers Producer Company (FPC), the initiative focused on equipping local farmers with essential knowledge and tools for more effective agricultural practices.
The program primarily focused on Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) cultivation, employing pre-germinated seeds and zero Seed cum Fertilizer Drill technology. This approach not only enhances crop productivity but also minimizes environmental impact by reducing the need for traditional tillage methods, thereby promoting soil health and biodiversity conservation.
Dr. P.P. Rao, Director of the North Eastern Region Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institute, presided over the inauguration ceremony, reaffirming the institute's commitment to supporting farmers in adopting modern farming techniques. He emphasized the institute's readiness to assist farmers in addressing agricultural challenges and achieving sustainable agricultural development.
Er. P.C. Meshram, Senior Agricultural Engineer at the institute, provided technical insights into DSR cultivation, highlighting its potential to revolutionize traditional farming practices and improve agricultural sustainability. Pankaj Baruah, a Research Technician from the Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project (APART), shared valuable perspectives on promoting sustainable agriculture across the region.
Anjan Nath, Chairman of Shymal FPC, expressed the company's ambitious target of cultivating 1000 bighas of paddy through DSR this year. He underscored the significance of collaboration between agricultural institutions and local stakeholders in driving agricultural innovation and fostering rural development.
The program featured interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, and knowledge-sharing activities, enabling farmers to gain hands-on experience and insights into DSR cultivation techniques. Participants lauded the initiative for its relevance and effectiveness in addressing critical agricultural challenges and empowering rural communities.
The collaborative efforts between the North Eastern Region Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institute and Shymal FPC exemplify the synergistic approach needed to advance sustainable agriculture. By harnessing technological innovations and fostering community engagement, the initiative aims to catalyze positive change in the agricultural sector, paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous future.
As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like these serve as catalysts for progress, offering practical solutions to enhance productivity, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability. With collective action and sustained commitment, the vision of a thriving agricultural sector in the North Eastern region can be realized, benefiting farmers and communities alike.
