On 15th September 2024, ICAR-KrishiVigyan Kendra, West Garo Hills, organized a Farmer's Awareness Programme on Poultry Health, in collaboration with the Ramie Research Station (RRS), ICAR-CRIJAF, Sorbhog, Assam, at the KVK campus. The event aimed to enhance knowledge on poultry health management and promote sustainable agricultural practices among farmers.
        Mr. Prasanta Kr. Das, Scientist from RRS, Sorbhog, provided an overview of the activities of ICAR-CRIJAF, particularly highlighting the Ramie Research Station's initiatives. He underscored the potential of Ramie cultivation in the West Garo Hills, emphasizing its economic viability and scope for enhancing farmer livelihoods in the region.
        Dr. Monica Singh, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, discussed the critical role of Animal Husbandry in increasing farmers’ income. She stressed that livestock farming, especially poultry, offers a secure and continuous income source for rural households.
        Dr. Tarun Kumar Das, Subject Matter Specialist (Agricultural Extension), highlighted the cultural significance of ducksin Garo tradition. He provided detailed information on theKhaki CampbellandWhite Pekinduck breeds, focusing on their relevance to local farming systems.
        Dr. Sagarika Borah, Senior Technical Officer (Animal Science), discussed the management practices for improved duck breeds, emphasizing the importance of sustainable livelihood practices through proper poultry management. She elaborated on the daily care routines, health management protocols, and the vaccination schedules necessary for maintaining poultry health.
        During the programme, 1,700 improved ducklings (21 days old) were distributed along with 1 bag starter feed and 1 kg mineral mixturesfor handholding were distributed to 95 farmers from 12 villages in the district. The event was coordinated by Dr. Tarun Kumar Das and Dr. Sagarika Borah, with the objective of promoting improved poultry farming practices for sustainable rural development.