Capacity building programme on IFS cum input distribution under NICRA project conducted

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Chandel organized a capacity building-cum-input distribution programme on “Integrated Farming Systems” today at its conference hall. The event was held under the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project.

Dr. Kangjam Sonamani Singh, Nodal Officer of the NICRA Project, opened the session by highlighting the urgent need to strengthen local agricultural resilience. He noted that Chandel is increasingly vulnerable to rainfall variability, characterized by alternating periods of intense downpours and prolonged dry spells. “Climate change is a reality for this district,” he stated, urging the adoption of “climate-smart technology baskets” and location-specific policies to protect small and marginal farmers from shifting cultivation risks.

Chief Guest Dr. Ch. Basudha, Head of the ICAR Manipur Regional Centre, emphasized rainwater harvesting as the primary solution to winter water scarcity. She remarked that integrated farming systems (IFS) not only boost income but also restore farmer self-esteem. She encouraged the community to blend indigenous knowledge with proven advanced technologies.

District Agricultural Officer Sp. Lovejoy Anal urged farmers to abandon traditional mono-cropping in favor of IFS to ensure multiple revenue streams, pledging his department’s full support for tribal farmers. Meanwhile, Guest of Honour Dr. Kh. Rishikanta Singh, Senior Scientist at ICAR Manipur, observed that while humanity has reached Mars, agriculture remains a “gamble of the monsoon.” He motivated farmers to adopt modern technologies to increase yields and prevent rural migration for employment.

The programme concluded with Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Chandel, thanking the stakeholders for the event’s success.

As part of the initiative, 72 farmers received essential inputs, including vermibeds, mulching films, silpaulin sheets for rainwater harvesting, knapsack sprayers, shade nets, and bee boxes. The event also featured a “Kisan Mela” (Farmers’ Fair), where local tribal farmers showcased a diverse array of organic products.