Bakultala, Nov. 25: ICAR- KVK, N&M Andaman organized a three days training program on “Integrated Farming System for Sustainable Agriculture” at Shyamkund village, Bakultala from 20th to 22nd November 2024.
The program was inaugurated by Shri Narayan Mondal Pradhan Bakultala Gram Panchayat, who encouraged farmers to adopt integrated farming systems to achieve economic and ecological benefits. He stressed the importance of working closely with agricultural experts and institutions to address challenges in farming and optimize resource utilization.
Dr. V. Damodaran, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK N&M Andaman, provided an overview of integrated farming systems (IFS) and its role in improving resource efficiency, ensuring food security, and mitigating climate change effects. He discussed strategies to integrate crop cultivation, livestock, aquaculture, and agroforestry for sustainable growth.
During the technical sessions, Shri Rakesh Dawar, SMS Agronomy, discussed agronomic practices and crop diversification suitable for IFS. He highlighted the benefits of nutrient recycling and interlinking different farming components for enhanced productivity and income.
Shri Kanhaiyalal, Agriculture Officer, shared schemes related to IFS and practical approaches to soil and water conservation, integrated pest management, and utilizing available resources for maximum output.
Shri Subam Debroy, SMS Aquaculture, discussed integrating aquaculture into farming systems to maximize resource use and income. He explained methods for efficient water management and fish farming, emphasizing its complementary role in the IFS model.
Shri Yatharth Sharma, SMS Home Science, highlighted the role of value addition in integrated farming. He also emphasized empowerment of women and seasonal mushroom cultivation under IFS.
The entire program was organized under the guidance of Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijay Puram. About 30 farmers and farm women participated and benefited from the training.