ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Dimapur celebrated “World Soil Day” and organized a training program on Soil Health Card cum Farmer-Scientist Interaction at the KVK Dimapur Conference Hall in collaboration with Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Chumoukedima on 5/12/2024. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of soil health for sustainable agricultural practices and promote the use of Soil Health Card among farmers.
        The programme was chaired by Dr. Ebibeni Ngullie, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Animal Science and Head In-charge, KVK Dimapur. She welcomed the officials, participants and highlighted the significance of improving soil health to enhance agricultural productivity.
        The special guest for the event, Shri. Kevimeo Khatso, District Soil Conservation Officer (DSCO), Dimapur, delivered the keynote address. He emphasized the critical role of soil conservation in maintaining soil fertility and the overall health of ecosystems. Dr. Homeswar Kalita, Head of the Regional Centre, ICAR Nagaland Centre stressed the importance of adopting scientific farming methods to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
        The event also featured Shri. Bodevi Shuya, District Agriculture Officer (DAO) & Project Director (PD) ATMA, Chumoukedima. He spoke about the government’s efforts to promote agricultural development and the role of extension services in empowering farmers with knowledge and technology.
        An Ice-Breaking Session was conducted by Smt. Chubatsur, Block Technology Manager (BTM) ATMA, Medziphema. The session facilitated interaction among the participants and helped them engage more effectively in the discussions that followed.
        In the technical session, Dr. Bendangla Imsong, CTO Plant Breeding, led a comprehensive discussion on soil nutrient-based crop management practices for increased crop production. She also provided detailed insights into the use and benefits of Soil Health Cards.
        The event observed a Farmer-Scientist Interaction, where farmers had the opportunity to discuss their concerns with the scientists. Eight vermi-bags and small gardening tools were also distributed to each Self-Help Group (SHG). Altogether 38 farmers and 15 officials from ICAR Nagaland Centre, District Soil Conservation Office Dimapur, District Agriculture Office Chumukedima, ATMA, and KVK Dimapur participated in the programme. Smt. Chubatsur (BTM), ATMA, Medziphema, expressed gratitude to all the speakers, participants, and organizers for making the event a success.