ICAR-VPKAS, Almora Scientists Raise Awareness among Farmers in Takula and Sult Blocks

Five teams of scientists from the ICAR–Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, organized awareness camps under the "Khet Bachao Abhiyan" in Naikana village of Sult block, and Basoli, Hadoli, Kotyura, and Patiya villages of Takula block in Almora district. This campaign was conducted under the overall guidance of Dr Lakshmi Kant, Director, ICAR-VPKAS.

Scientists provided detailed information to farmers regarding soil health management, balanced fertilizer use, and soil test-based nutrient management. Discussing the adverse effects of excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, special emphasis was placed on the integrated use of nutrient management, green manure, bio-fertilizers, and resources available.

Farmers were apprised of the concept of organic and natural farming, its benefits, and its potential in hilly conditions. They were advised to maximize the use of organic resources and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers to maintain field productivity and long-term soil fertility. Under crop diversification, the benefits of including pulses and oilseeds in current crop rotations such as increasing income and promoting biological nitrogen fixation in the soil were highlighted.

During the programs, scientists provided detailed training on identifying major pests and diseases affecting hilly crops and their integrated management. In particular, farmers were made aware of the identification, life cycle, and control measures for the 'Kurmula', a major problem in the region. Scientific advice was also given on pest and disease management for major crops, especially chili.

Farmers were given detailed information about various government schemes, including Kisan Credit Card, PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, pulse and oilseed development schemes, and subsidies available on agricultural machinery and inputs. They were encouraged to avail the benefits of credit facilities, seed and fertilizer subsidies, and other agricultural development programs.

In most of the meetings, farmers identified damage caused to crops by wildlife, such as monkeys and wild boars, as their primary concern. Discussing available scientific and community management options for crop protection, scientists provided practical suggestions to the farmers.

A total of 78 farmers, including 36 men and 42 women, participated in these programs.

(Source: ICAR–Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, Uttarakhand)