Port Blair, Jan 9: An awareness programme on Natural Farming was organized by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Central Island Agricultural Research Institute at Lalpahar Community Hall on 06.01.2023. Mrs. Chaitali Roy, Panchayat Samiti Member, Chouldhari graced the occasion as chief guest.

The Samiti Member advised the farming community to produce quality farm products without using chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Naturally produced farm products are very good for health of people as well as soil and environment, she said.

Mrs. Purnima Sarkar and Mrs. Surobala Mistry, PRI members of Lalpahar were also present and motivated the farming community. 

Dr. Y Ramakrishna, Principal Scientist & Head discussed natural farming practices and encouraged farmers to adopt these practices in cluster basis and maintain soil health for production and consumption of quality produce in isles. He appealed farmers to use local seeds and planting materials, integration of crops, tress and livestock, intercropping and crop rotations.

Dr N. Bommayasamy, SMS (Agro./Agrl.Extn.) explained that natural farming drastically reduced the cost of production by replacing the chemical fertilizers and pesticides. He encouraged for farm production of Ghanajeevamrut, Beejamrut, Jeevamurt, agniastra, bhramastra, neemastra etc. and adoption of intercropping with leguminous vegetables.

He stressed to adopt mulching with crop residues which reduces soil temperature and also improves soil moisture and in turn helps in soil microbial diversity, water absorption and nutrient availability to crops.  

Dr. B.K. Nanda, SMS (Agrl. Engg.) enlightened about the employment opportunities in natural farming and water management practices. As part of the programme, demonstration on ghanjeevamrut, jeevamrut were prepared by the participants. A total of 82 participants were participated and benefited in this programme.