ATMA Sechu Zubza block officials with participants during the demonstration on cultivation practices of winter crops held at Jotsoma village on September 3. (Photo Courtesy: ATMA Sechu Zubza block)
Zubza, September 8 (MExN): ATMA Sechu Zubza block conducted a demonstration on cultivation practices of winter crops at Jotsoma village on September 3.
The demonstration was led by Vithato Nakhro, Farmer Friend of Jotsoma village. He mentioned that with change in time, we should change our attitude towards farming and attempt to growing crops twice a year instead of the age old practice of cultivation of one yield per crop a year. He also stressed on the need of preparing nurseries for the crops.
On September 5, SRI Farm School was inaugurated at Jotsoma. Kevirasieno Peseyie was appointed as the Farm School Teacher, she also shared on her journey towards SRI cultivation and how its performance is at par over line transplanting.
During the inaugural programme Isabella Zinyu, BTM, highlighted that farm schools provide the vital link between the progressive farmers and others in the village, she also spoke on the role of a farm school teacher. She also highlighted about the Kisan call centre, in which the farmers can raise queries or issues in their own local dialect. She explained that this scheme will help establish a network of relationship among farmers and extension workers and evolve in the agriculture sector.
Demonstration on operation of conoweeder in SRI practice and Integrated Pest Management was done by Thepfulelie Yhome, AFA and Thejavizonuo Kelio, ATM respectively. Yhome gave a hand on demonstration on the use of conoweeder and also highlighted on the benefits such as ease of operaton, weed control at low costs, and also increases the tillering capacity of the paddy.
Later, identification, symptom of damage and management of important insect pest of paddy were discussed through visual charts led by Kelio.
Hands on demonstration of setting up of dirty trap by soaking cattle dung wrapped in a cloth to attract Gundhi bug, another major pest found in the area, was done. She further explained that farmers can keep the balance in their favour by trying not to harm predatory arthropods which feed on plant eating pests.
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