CHANDEL, 04/02/2026:  The 21st Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting of ICAR–KVK Chandel was convened today at the KVK Chandel Conference Hall, conducted in a hybrid format (online and offline).

The inaugural session was graced by Reikimdaar Khaling (MCS), SDO Chandel, as the Chief Guest; Sp. Lovejoy Anal, DAO Chandel, as the Guest of Honour; and Dr. Ch. Basuda Devi, Head of Regional Centre, ICAR–Manipur Centre, as the Functional President.

Prominent experts joined the deliberations virtually, including Dr. AK Singha (Principal Scientist, ICAR–ATARI Umiam), Prof. Deepak Nath (Dy. Director of Extension Education, CAU), and Dr. S. Basanta Singh (Nodal Officer).

The meeting also saw active participation from the Senior Scientists and Heads of several KVKs, including Dr. A. Ameeta Devi (Chandel), Dr. Manoj Kumar Pandey (Churachandpur), Dr. Y. Prabhabati Devi (Imphal East), and Dr. H. Lembi Sana Devi (Tamenglong), alongside Dr. S. Khogen Singh (Ukhrul). Scientific experts from the ICAR–Manipur Centre, including Dr. N. Umakanta, Dr. T. Basanta, and Dr. L. Channu Langlentombi, were also in attendance, together with officials from various line departments, KVK Chandel staff, and six progressive farmers from the district.

The SAC meeting is an annual statutory exercise designed to provide scientific guidance and strategic support for KVK activities. It serves as a vital platform where scientists, line department officials, and farmers evaluate progress, review action plans, and strategize for future technology assessments.

During the technical session, the Annual Report for 2025 and the Annual Action Plan for 2026 were presented and discussed in detail, specifically focusing on the disciplines of Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, and Agricultural Engineering. Enriched by the inputs of participating farmers and experts, the SAC reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and farmers’ welfare through innovative practices and collaborative efforts in the coming year.

Chandel, 15/12/2025: A crucial training program focused on quality seed production techniques for Rabi field crops was conducted today at the ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel. The one-day program, held under the auspices of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Seed (Crops), aimed to equip local farmers with scientific knowledge and practices essential for enhancing crop yield and achieving self-sufficiency in quality seed production within the district. The training was presided over by Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (SMS) in Plant Breeding. During the programme, Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK Chandel emphasized the pivotal role of quality seeds in the agricultural value chain. She highlighted that seed is the most vital input for crop production, and the efficiency and performance of other inputs like fertilizers and irrigation depend directly on seed quality and  stressed the importance of safe seed storage methods to ensure year-round seed availability for the community. She encouraged farmers to embrace scientific practices for seed production to strengthen local seed systems and boost their income, thereby improving overall food security. While Ts. Leenda Monsang, in her technical session elaborated on the practical aspects of quality seed production. She highlighted the importance of farmer participation in seed production programs under the AICRP initiative, her session provided detailed guidance on the package of practices for rabi field crops, specifically focusing on lentil, rapeseed mustard and field pea for quality seed production.

The training concluded with an interactive farmer-scientist session, allowing participants to directly address their queries and concerns with the KVK experts. As part of the program, quality seeds were distributed to the 27 participating farmers to facilitate practical application of the learned techniques in their fields. The programme was also attended by Dr. K. Sonamani Singh, SMS (Agril. Engg.), Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture) and staff of KVK Chandel.

CHANDEL, Dec 5: Emphasizing the critical role of soil in both rural agriculture and urban resilience, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel, observed World Soil Day today at its Conference Hall under the global theme, “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities.”

The observance brought together agricultural experts, district officials, and local farmers to advocate for the sustainable management of soil resources in the face of rapid urbanization and climate change.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Kangjam Sonamani Singh, Subject Matter Specialist (Soil & Water Conservation), highlighted the indispensable nature of soil, noting that over 95 percent of human food originates from it. “Soil supplies 15 of the 18 naturally occurring chemical elements essential to plants,” he stated.

Dr. Singh drew particular attention to this year’s theme, which shifts the focus from traditional rural landscapes to urban environments. He mooted that while soil is often associated with the countryside, urban soil is equally fundamental.

“Beneath asphalt, buildings, and streets lies soil that, if permeable and vegetated, helps absorb rainwater, regulate temperature, store carbon, and improve air quality,” Dr. Singh explained. He warned that sealing soil with cement strips it of these functions, rendering cities vulnerable to flooding, overheating, and pollution. He urged policymakers and citizens alike to “rethink urban spaces from the ground up.”

The Guest of Honour, Shri Khagokpam Sundeep, District Horticulture Officer (DHO), Chandel, described soil as an “inseparable entity” for the planet and a primary means of livelihood. Expressing concern over urbanization-induced degradation, he noted that deforestation has hastened the leaching of organic carbon, ultimately reducing fertility. He strongly encouraged the farming community to adopt organic farming practices to ensure sustainability.

Speaking as the Chief Guest, Shri Sp. Lovejoy Anal, District Agriculture Officer (DAO), Chandel, stressed the need to conserve fertility through tree plantation, noting that canopy cover naturally mitigates erosion.

Shri Lovejoy also highlighted the administrative importance of soil maintenance, informing the gathering that Soil Health Cards have become mandatory for availing benefits under various government schemes. He urged farmers to prioritize soil testing to secure these cards.

Dr. Asem Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Chandel, connected agricultural health to public health. “Healthy soils will not only lead to healthy cities but also to healthy citizens,” she remarked, adding that the right balance of macro and micro-nutrients is essential for increasing farm income and providing nutritious food.

The program was attended by officials including Shri Soraisam Suraj (AO, Dept. of Horticulture & Soil Conservation), Dr. Kl. Levish (SMS, Agronomy), Smt. Ts. Leenda Monsang (SMS, Plant Breeding), Smt. Ps. Lavid Anal (Horticulture), and Smt. Lungni Anal (SRF, NICRA Project).

The event concluded with the distribution of Soil Health Cards and vegetable seeds—including onion, coriander, and palak—to the 48 farmers participating in the programme.

Chandel, 26/11/2025:

Constitution Day, or Samvidhan Diwas, was formally observed at the ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel, on November 26^th. This annual commemoration marks the day the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Constitution in 1949. The primary objective of the observance was not merely to fulfill a mandate but to deeply sensitize all staff members about the foundational framework, philosophy, and enduring spirit of the Constitution. Specifically for KVK Chandel, the goal was to integrate these high constitutional principles—especially those relating to justice, equality, and dignity—into the daily functioning of agricultural extension, research, and outreach activities, ensuring service delivery remains equitable and inclusive for the farming community. The entire event saw enthusiastic and active participation from all personnel.

The central and most impactful segment of the day was the detailed address delivered by the Senior Scientist & Head, Dr. A. Ameeta Devi. Dr. Devi used her insightful presentation to emphasize the Constitution’s pivotal significance in national life and its role as the backbone of democratic governance. She meticulously focused on how these national ideals translate into practical ethics for an agricultural institution like KVK.

Her address highlighted three crucial pillars:

Constitutional Rights and Values: Dr. Devi provided an explanation of fundamental rights, illustrating their importance in ensuring every citizen, particularly vulnerable farmers, receives liberty and justice. She underscored the core values of secularism and social justice, urging staff to adopt a non-discriminatory approach in all extension work and beneficiary selection.

Fundamental Duties: A key emphasis was placed on the Fundamental Duties, stressing the necessary balance between claiming rights and fulfilling responsibilities. For the KVK staff, this was interpreted as a duty to promote harmony, protect public property (including institutional resources), and strive for excellence in the sphere of scientific and developmental outreach.

Democratic Principles: The discussion reinforced core democratic principles—liberty, equality, and fraternity. Dr. Devi stressed that true institutional functioning requires a participatory, transparent, and democratic decision-making process, ensuring every staff member’s voice is heard and that all stakeholders are treated with fairness.

Following the profound address, a formal pledge ceremony was conducted. Led by the Senior Scientist & Head, all staff members stood in solemn reaffirmation of their commitment. They collectively pledged to uphold the constitutional values, preserve the sovereignty and integrity of the nation, and dedicate themselves to the service of the country. This act was a powerful, collective affirmation, serving as a solemn reminder of the commitment required to internalize and maintain the spirit of the Constitution in their professional and personal lives.

The Constitution Day observance at ICAR – KVK Chandel was highly effective in achieving its objective of deepening constitutional literacy and instilling a heightened sense of institutional and national duty among the staff. The event concluded with a palpable and renewed commitment from all participants to not only abide by the democratic principles but also to actively reflect these values in their work, thereby strengthening the democratic foundation of the institution’s engagement with the community. This annual observance reinforces the KVK’s dedication to its mandate within the framework of the Republic.

Chandel, November 11, 2025: The ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel, successfully organized a Field Day on Farmers’ Participatory Seed Production of the high-yielding rice variety RC Maniphou-13 (RCM 30). Conducted under the Front Line Demonstration program, the event was held today at Laiching Maipou village in Machi Block, aiming to showcase the variety’s potential and facilitate wider adoption.

The program was graced by Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR – KVK Chandel, alongside local dignitaries, including M. Tomba, Chairman Laiching Meipou village, and Rev. D. Kodang, Pastor Laiching Meipou village.

Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding), informed the participating farmers about the superior characteristics of RC Maniphou-13. She highlighted that this mid-duration rice variety, developed for the Northeastern Hill Region, matures in 125–135 days and offers exceptional yield potential, with harvests reaching 60 to 70 quintals per hectare (q/ha). Furthermore, she emphasized that the variety possesses strong resistance to both leaf and neck blast, a common and destructive rice disease. She also stressed that the variety’s climate-resilience is crucial for enhancing food security and improving farmer profitability in Manipur, while its medium duration facilitates the adoption of more intensive and profitable double cropping systems.

In her address, Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK Chandel, highly valued the hard work, effort, and contributions made by the farmers in the participatory seed production effort, encouraging them to continue embracing new technologies for sustainable agriculture.

The event also included a Scientist-Farmer Interaction Session where technical queries were addressed by KVK specialists: Dr. Kl Levish, SMS (Agronomy), Dr. K. Sonamani Singh, SMS (Agricultural Engineering), Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture), and Kamei Super, Senior Technical Officer (Farm Management). The successful program concluded with a field visit to the demonstration plot and the distribution of Garden Pea and other rabi vegetable seeds to the 47 participating farmers.

Chandel, 7/11/2025:

ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel, organized a Field Day on the rice variety RC-Maniphou-16 under the Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on 7^th November 2025 at Chandel Christian village, Chandel. The programme was done to show farmers the importance of practicing Integrated Nutrient Management in order to improve the production and productivity of the rice variety RC-Maniphou-16 and to increase its profitability.

SMS (Agronomy) of the ICAR-KVK Chandel, Dr. Khumlo Levish, pointed out the performance of a newly released variety of RC-Maniphou-16 created by the ICAR Research Complex in NEH Region, Manipur Centre. She reported that it is semi-dwarf, medium-duration type of variety with the potential of yielding 7-8 t/ha with correct management. The variety is not susceptible to the leaf and neck blast diseases and has a low quantity of amylase thus its soft cooking quality is very preferred by consumers in Manipur. She also elaborated more on the fact that Integrated Nutrient Management is a whole system approach that promotes nutrient-use efficiency, minimizes nutrient loss to the environment, promotes soil health, and improves climate resilience. She promoted the use of wise and moderate fertilizer application by farmers so as to have long-term soil welfare and production.

As part of addressing the farmers, Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK Chandel, called on farmers to embrace the use of INM and do away with excessive use of inorganic fertilizers to keep crop production alive without compromising the ecology. She valued the effort, hard work and the contributions made by the farmers in the agriculture industry.

Scientist Farmer Interaction Session was also organized in which Ts. Leenda Monsang, SMS (Plant Breeding) and Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture), and other staff of ICAR-KVK Chandel also attended. The programme ended with a field visit where the technology has been conducted with the distribution of field pea and rabi vegetable seeds to 45 farmers.

Chandel, 13/08/2025:

A capacity building-cum-input distribution programme entitled “Empowerment of Tribal Farmers under NICRA Project” was organised today at the Community Hall of Chandel Christian Village, Chandel under the “National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA)” Project, KVK Chandel.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome address delivered by Hb. Lungni Anal, SRF (NICRA Project). During the programme, Dr. Kangjam Sonamani Singh, Subject Matter Specialist (Soil & Water Conservation), the Nodal Officer, NICRA Project, Chandel in his keynote address stressed the need and importance of empowering the tribal farmers of the aspirational district of Chandel by working on enhancing resilience of the local agriculture practices to climate change and climate vulnerability though strategic research, development, demonstration and application of improved production and risk management technologies. He stated that in the recent times, rainfall variability has become the norm in the state which is characterised by the unevenness in the time and amount of rainfall. With increasing variability, precipitation is more unevenly distributed over time resulting in wetter wet periods and drier dry periods. Some locations may receive a year’s amount of rainfall in just a few days’ time, have elongated dry spells followed by intense downpour thus alternating between drought-like situations and flood. Climate change is a reality and an increasing trend in temperature, precipitation and emission of greenhouse gases has been observed in the district. The district is also projected to experience more of extreme rainfall and reduction in crop yields. As subsistence level farming is coupled with prevalent shifting cultivation, the small and marginal farmers will be most affected due to climate change. Hence, there is an urgent need for devising climate proof plan and climate ready policy for climate compatible agricultural development in Chandel. He urged that location-specific climate smart technology baskets need to be devised or introduced and should be demonstrated through participatory approach, for ensuring a climate resilient production system, and a climate resilient ecosystem. He highlighted that the interactions between the system’s adaptation strategies and the mitigation potential should also be given due importance in the action plan for combating climate change.

Dr A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Chandel expressed her desire to see the farmers of Chandel as shining example of perseverance and sincerity in the present situation of changing weather pattern. She assured to provide all means and help possible to make the tribal farmers of the district achieve sustainability and profitability in their farming activities. She pointed out the need for integrated farming mode incorporating livestock enterprises to mitigate crop failure or low farm return in the district. Various resource persons deliberated on wide ranging and useful topics ranging from vermicomposting, beekeeping & improved composite fishery techniques to sustainable crop and goatery production.

Later, input materials in the form of piglets (cross-breed Hampshire), ducklings (White Pekin), feed, medicines, feed supplements, waterers, bee boxes and shade nets (75%) were distributed to the 36 farmers who participated in the said programme. The programme was also attended by Dr. Khumlo Levish, SMS (Agronomy), Ts. Leenda Monsang SMS (Plant Breeding), Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture) & Super Kamei, STO (Farm Management).

Chandel, August 2, 2025: The 20th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Yojana was celebrated today at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Chandel. This event marks a key achievement in the government’s commitment to support farmers. Local farmers enthusiastically participated in the program.

Smt. Promilata Monsang Wanglar, SDC/BO DC Chandel, was the Chief Guest, with Shri S.P. Lovejoy Anal, District Agriculture Officer, Chandel, as the Guest of Honour. Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR – KVK Chandel, served as the functional president.

About 207 farmers from the area attended the event. They received agricultural inputs like micronutrient fertilizers and vegetable seeds to help with their farming. The ceremony included a live webcast on the 20th instalment of PM Kisan. After the program, a “Scientist & Farmers Interaction Programme” took place, allowing farmers to interact with experts and share their concerns.

The PM-KISAN scheme began in 2019 with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. It offers direct financial aid of ₹6,000 per year to qualifying farmer families to support their agricultural costs. With this 20th installment, the total amount given through the scheme across the country will surpass ₹3.89 lakh crore.

The scheme has improved the lives of small and marginal farmers by providing essential financial support directly. This help decreases their dependence on informal credit sources and enables them to manage agricultural expenses better. It has also empowered women farmers, with over 2.26 crore women benefiting from the 20th installment.

The government’s strong support for the farming community is evident in the significant boost to the agriculture budget. This budget rose from ₹21,933.50 crore in 2013-14 to ₹1,27,202.29 crore in 2025-26, showing a 5.59-fold increase. Initiatives like the “Kisan e-Mitra” AI chatbot have also been launched to help farmers with their questions in 11 regional languages, breaking down technological and language barriers.

This event in Chandel highlights the broad impact of the PM-KISAN scheme and the government’s ongoing efforts to promote the prosperity and well-being of farmers across India.