Exposure cum training on organic farming commemorated

 

        ICAR-CCARI, KVK, North Goa, and VANARAI, Pune collaboratively conducted exposure and training on organic farming on 18.10.2024. Dr Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI, Goa, honored as the chief guest at the event. He emphasized the importance of organic agriculture in Goa, noting that fertilizer consumption in the region is six times lower than that of major fertilizer-consuming states and the relative ease of transitioning to organic farming in goan agriculture. He emphasized that on-farm production of organic fertilizers reduces agricultural production expenses and enhances soil health while fostering the efficient utilization and preservation of natural resources for future generations. Dr. N. Bommayasamy, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK, addressed soil health management through green manuring, green leaf manuring, manures and bio-fertilizers, methods for preventing weed growth, and strategies to enhance soil organic matter to nourish soil microorganisms. Mr. H.R.C. Prabhu, Ex-SMS (Plant Protection), detailed organic pest and disease management in annual and perennial crops. He stressed the necessity of selecting resistant varieties, executing seed and seedling treatments, inter-cropping systems, using natural predators and parasitoids, bio-control agents, and adopting strategies to mitigate the spread and proliferation of pests and diseases.  Mr. Rahul Kumar, SMS (Agronomy), explained the significance of integrating livestock with crops, which facilitates more effective nutrient recycling at the farm level, mitigates risks for farmers, and enhances the economic stability of agriculture. Mr. Rahul Kulkarni, ACTO, clarified the fundamental principles of natural farming practices: Ghajeevamrit, Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, mulching, and wahpsa.  Mr. Vinod Ubharande, Farm Superintendent, addressed the significance of organic farming in Goan agriculture. The fermented liquid organic manure and organic pest-repellent preparations were demonstrated. Mr. Rakesh Khairnar, Project Coordinator, VANARAI, Pune previously extended a warm welcome to the gathering. Fifty-one (26 male and 25 females) farmers from twenty villages in the Baradez, Sattari, and Perdne talukas participated in and benefited from this program.  Mr. Rahul Kulkarni, Dr N. Bommayasamy, Mr. Rahul Kumar, Mr Vinod Ubarhande and Mr Viswajeet Prajapati coordinated the program.