Ensuring profitable farming involves a combination of strategic planning, efficient practices, and adopting the appropriate technologies. However, factors such as climate change, fluctuating market prices, and evolving consumer preferences pose significant challenges.
India's northeastern state, Mizoram, and its remote location have shaped a unique landscape in the realm of farming. Emphasizing Mizoram's cultivation methods, challenges faced by farmers, crucial support extended by Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Lunglei, and ways to ensure profitable farming, Dr Henry Saplalrinliana, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Lunglei, Mizoram shared his views through the live Facebook webinar conducted by Krishi Jagran on October 27, 2023.
Agricultural Practices and Initiatives in Mizoram to Enhance Profitability in Farming
Dr. Henry began by stating that Mizoram, renowned for its emphasis on forest-based agriculture, stands as the youngest geological entity in the region, which is characterized by its newly formed, fertile soils.
He further said that this unique environment has shaped an agriculture that is remarkably fresh, with a restrained reliance on chemical fertilizers compared to other parts of the country, largely due to their limited availability. Notably, 50 to 60 percent of Mizoram's agriculture hinges on the age-old practice of shifting cultivation, locally known as 'jhum'.
In addition to this, Mizoram places a significant focus on sedentary farming, cultivating a diverse array of crops, including staples like banana and pineapple, alongside robust plantations. The state's agricultural landscape also thrives in the piggery and poultry farming sectors.
Mizoram has taken significant steps to strengthen its farming sector with several major initiatives like the Garden Colony project, the New Land Use Policy (NLUP), and the Socio-Economic Development Policy (SEDP).
On an international front, Mizoram has actively engaged in projects like Fostering Climate-Resilient Upland Farming Systems (FOCUS) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Financial institutions have also stepped up to support Mizoram's farming community. Notably, institutions like NABARD and the Mizoram Rural Bank have been instrumental in providing crucial financial backing and resources, further fortifying the foundation for agricultural progress in the state.
Challenges Faced by Mizoram Farmers
In Mizoram, advancing agricultural technology faces a crucial hurdle: the scarcity of power. Dr. Henry added that, given the state's limited space and a substantial portion of uncultivable land, it's imperative to navigate these challenges. The Mizoram government has taken proactive steps, introducing innovative solutions such as egg hatching units. Moreover, straightforward yet invaluable technologies like water harvesting systems have proven instrumental in the region.
How KVK Lunglei Helps Mizoram Farmers
The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Lunglei plays a pivotal role. It not only introduces cutting-edge technologies to farmers but also collaborates closely with them, seeking their valuable feedback. This collaborative approach ensures that the technologies implemented align with the specific needs and realities of Mizoram's farming community.
Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) serve as invaluable intermediaries, advocating for the needs of farmers to state governments, line departments, as well as various associations and societies. Recognizing that farmers might face challenges in articulating their precise requirements, KVK teams conduct field visits. This hands-on approach allows them to directly witness the issues faced by farmers and take swift, targeted action to address them. This proactive engagement ensures that the support provided is not only timely but also precisely tailored to the realities on the ground.
Successful Agricultural Cultivations in Mizoram
Successful cultivation in Mizoram encompasses a diverse range of crops, including ginger, pineapple, bird's eye chilli, and banana. These crops thrive in the region's conducive agricultural environment, contributing significantly to the state's agricultural prosperity.
How One Can Ensure Profitable Farming?
Securing access to capital, implementing effective marketing strategies to showcase the unique qualities of the crop, ensuring a dependable power supply, and employing advanced post-harvesting technologies are indispensable factors for guaranteeing the profitability of farming efforts. These interdependent elements form the backbone of a successful and sustainable agricultural enterprise.
