Chandel, 06/06/2025:

The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) 2025, a landmark nationwide agricultural outreach campaign, was officially launched on May 29, 2025, by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This visionary initiative is a key component of the Government of India’s broader goal of achieving Developed India by 2047, with a special focus on transforming agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and farmer empowerment.

As part of this national mission, Chandel District in Manipur has taken proactive steps in implementing the campaign at the grassroots level. The district-level launch was spearheaded by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Mohamad Firoz Khan, MCS in the presence of officials from ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel and various district line departments. Since its commencement, the campaign in Chandel has successfully reached 72 villages, including tribal settlements in the neighboring Tengnoupal District, benefiting more than 2,690 farmers.Even with occasional challenges from heavy rain, the campaign teams have stayed committed and continued their efforts with great enthusiasm. The outreach activities have been led by experts from ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region – Manipur Centre, Central Agriculture University, Imphal and various District Line Departments.

The VKSA campaign in Chandel has been marked by a wide range of impactful activities aimed at educating and empowering farmers with up-to-date knowledge and practices. These include: Soil Health Campaigns to promote soil testing and nutrient management, Awareness on modern agricultural practices for Kharif crops, Soil and water conservation techniques for sustainable resource use, Promotion of climate-resilient technologies tailored to local agro-climatic conditions, Training on natural farming and organic inputs, Introduction to composite fish culture as an income-diversifying option, Off-season vegetable cultivation for enhanced food security and income, Vermicomposting methods for eco-friendly nutrient recycling, Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) for holistic and diversified farm management, Resource Conservation Technologies (RCTs) to improve efficiency and reduce costs, Animal feed and health management practices for livestock farmers, and Information campaigns on government schemes and agricultural support programs.

These activities have not only deepened the engagement of farming communities but also enhanced coordination among stakeholders, including academic institutions, government agencies, and grassroots organizations. The campaign has fostered a spirit of collaboration and innovation, laying the foundation for long-term agricultural resilience in the district. The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan in Chandel will continue until June 12, 2025.

Chandel, May 16, 2025: A three-day training program on Seed Production in Improved Rice Varieties was successfully conducted from May 14 to 16, 2025 at ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel. The program was organized under the Front Line Demonstration on Participatory Seed Production, with the goal of equipping farmers with essential knowledge and practices to produce high-quality seeds of improved rice varieties.

The technical session was conducted by Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding), who provided detailed guidance on scientific methods of seed production, varietal selection, field preparation, and pest and disease management.

To support practical application, quality seeds and plant protection (PP) chemicals were distributed to 20 participating farmers. These inputs were provided as part of the frontline demonstration to encourage adoption and enhance productivity at the grassroots level.

The program was attended by Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Chandel, and Ps. Lavid Anal, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture). Both emphasized the importance of farmer-led seed production in strengthening local seed systems, increasing income, and improving food security.

A highlight of the event was a motivational session by Mrs. Ds. Toreiphun, a progressive farmer from the region, who shared her inspiring success story in seed production. She recounted her journey from conventional paddy cultivation to adopting improved seed production techniques with support from KVK Chandel. Her efforts not only enhanced her own farm yields but also enabled her to supply quality seeds to farmers, fostering a spirit of collaboration and self-reliance within the farming community. Her story served as a powerful encouragement for fellow participants, demonstrating the real-world benefits of scientific farming practices.

The training concluded on a positive note with active engagement from farmers and a renewed commitment to promoting participatory seed production for sustainable agriculture in Chandel district.

Chandel, 24/02/2024: Releasing of 19th instalment of PM-KISAN scheme webcast was conducted at ICAR – KVK Chandel today. The programme was attended by Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Sr. Scientist & Head, ICAR –KVK Chandel; Naorem Rabikumar Singh, AO, Horticulture Department, Chandel and Chandani Tarao, AO, Agriculture Department, Chandel as presidium members. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 19th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme during an event in Bhagalpur, Bihar and the programme was webcast all over India for the farmers.

Prior to the webcast, Dr. A. Ameeta Devi informed the farmers that PM-KISAN scheme was launched on February 24, 2019 and it aims to supplement the financial needs of landholding farmers by providing an annual benefit of ₹6,000, distributed in three equal installments of ₹2,000 every four months. She expressed her hope that this financial assistance would significantly aid the farmers in meeting their essential needs and improving their livelihoods.”  While delivering the speech Chandani Tarao encouraged farmers to work hard, practice double cropping, and benefit from it. She also emphasized that eligibility for the PM-KISAN scheme requires all landholding farmer families to have cultivable land registered in their names, and that their documents must undergo a verification process. She also informed available schemes in the agriculture department where the farmers can apply. And Naorem Rabikumar Singh emphasized that millions have benefited from PM Kisan funds, utilizing them for agricultural inputs and household needs. He conveyed his satisfaction with the direct benefit transfers, which have effectively reduced leakages and ensured timely assistance, highlighting the scheme’s successful reach and positive impact on rural economies.

In coinciding with the event, an exhibition was also organised by the farmers displaying natural farming and organic farming products. The programme was attended by 94 farmers.

Chandel, 20/02/2025:

The three days training on “Enhancing Agroforestry System through Efficient Tree Seed Propagation Techniques” under AICRP on Seed (Crops) project at Kanemram Village was concluded on 20/02/2025. The training was organised by Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), Manipur Centre in collaboration with ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel. The purpose of the training was to train farmers on effective seed propagation techniques and sustainable agricultural practices for economically valuable tree species of Manipur. The training programme was conducted under the course Coordinators of  Dr. K. Sarika, Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding) and Dr. L Chanu Langlentombi, Scientist (Agroforestry) of  ICAR Manipur Centre. The valedictory programme was attended by Dr Ch. Basudha Devi, Head of Regional Centre, ICAR-Manipur Centre;  Dr. Ameeta Devi, Sr. Scientist and Head, KVK Chandel ; Sanyao Piyao, Chief of Kanemram village and Maku Paiso, Secretary Kanemram village as the presidium members.

Dr. Basudha in her speech highlighted the crucial role of tree plantation in enhancing both public health and farmer income. She also emphasized the nutritional value of fruit-bearing trees, advocating for their inclusion in local diets. She informed the farmers that promotion of Agroforestry practices will purify air, prevent erosion, and combat climate change.

The resource persons for the three days training programmes were Dr. Ameeta Devi, Sr. Scientist and Head, ICAR – KVK Chandel; Dr. L Chanu Langlentombi, Scientist (Agroforestry) ICAR Manipur Centre, Ts. Leenda Monsang, SMS (Plant Breeding), Dr. Kl. Levish, SMS (Agronomy); Dr. K. Sonamani Singh, SMS (Agril. Engg.) and Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture) of ICAR – KVK Chandel. During the valedictory programme certificates and inputs were distributed to the 32 participants.

Chandel. 26/01/2025:  76th Republic Day was organised by District Administration Chandel at the playground of Maha Union Government Higher Secondary School, Japhou.
Mayanglambam Rajkumar, DC Chandel attended the celebration as Chief Guest and unfurled the National Flag. The Chief Guest took salute from march past contingents led by Parade Commander, Ng Parshung Moyon, MPS, Assistant Commandant of 8th Manipur Rifles. 18 contingents including the Manipur Police, Manipur Rifles, IRB, VDF, students from different schools of the district, NCC, 21st Assam Rifles Band Party attended the march past parade. Thereafter the Republic Day celebration, ‘Meeyamgi Numit’ as part of Republic Day celebrations and an exhibition programme was conducted by the District Administration, the programme was attended by various departments in the district including ICAR – KVK Chandel headed by Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Sr. Scientist & Head and staff of KVK Chandel.

Chandel, 22/01/2025: Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) 2025, KVK Chandel conducted at the conference hall of the Loktak Farmers’ Hostel, ICAR Manipur Centre. ICAR KVKs nodal officer Dr S Basanta Singh, ICAR Manipur Centre head Dr Ramgopal Laha and KVK, Chandel senior scientist & head Dr A Ameeta Devi presided over the meeting. The subject matter specialists of the KVK presented the salient achievements, different flagship and convergence programmes as well the list of various proposed activities to be taken up in the year to come.The meeting was attended by ICAR Manipur Centre scientists and KVK, Chandel staff, as well as by various DLOs of the district.The pros and cons of the proposed on-farm trials and front line demonstrations were discussed in detail. The means and upliftment of the livelihood of the farming community of the aspirational district of Chandel were also deliberated in the meeting.

Chandel, 13/12/2024:

Celebration of Ginger Festival (One District One Product) under Krishi Swarna Samriddhi Programme conducted at KVK Chandel. The programme was attended by Promilata Monsang Wanglar, SDC – DC Chandel; K. Sundeep Singh, District Officer, Horticulture & Soil Conservation, Chandel and Dr. KL Levish, Head i/c KVK Chandel as Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and Functional President respectively. During the programme kisan Mela was also organized and was attended by FPOs of Chandel and Chakpikarong ,SHGs and entrepreneurs. Scientist and farmers interaction programme, technical session and group meeting were conducted as a part of the Ginger Festival. Best stall award and entrepreneur award were presented to encourage the farmers. Around 115 farmers had participated the festival.

Chandel, 09/12/2024:

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel organised inaugural programme of ‘Krishi Swarna Samriddhi Week’ (KSSW) and Technology week cum Kisan Mela,  a 5-day event (9^th to 13^th December 2024) at KVK Chandel to support the farmers through trainings, workshops, Animal Health Camps and showcasing of the farmers technology etc., in agriculture and allied sectors. The event was organized to uplift the farming community, particularly in the areas of sustainable agricultural practices and livelihood enhancement. On the occasion of inaugural programme, Ts. Gladny Monsang, Joint Director, Agriculture Department, Govt. of Manipur and DAO Chandel;  Khagokpam Sundeep Singh, District Horticulture Officer, Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Chandel graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour respectively. Dr. Khumlo Levish Chongloi, SMS (Agronomy) and Head i/c of ICAR- KVK Chandel highlighted the significance of the KSSW celebrations across the nation marking golden Jubilee of KVKs. She also highlighted the KVKs role in supporting farmers for enhancing food and livelihood security.

Smt. Ts. Gladny Monsang, Joint Director, Agriculture Department, Govt. of Manipur congratulated KVK on its Golden Jubilee and commended the collaboration between KVK and District Agriculture Department for the welfare of the farming community. She encouraged farmers to adopt scientific technologies effectively and emphasized sustainable crop production. While Shri. Khagokpam Sundeep Singh, District Horticulture Officer, Hort. and Soil Conservation, Chandel, appreciates the farmers effort, their sincerity, handworks and their contributions in agriculture sector. And he also highlighted different schemes under horticulture and soil conservation.

As part of the ongoing KSS Week, agricultural exhibition-cum-seminar, lecture on vermicomposting for enhancing farmers income as well as sustainable crop production and awareness on Kisan Sarathi portal which provides multilingual support for farmers seeking advisories on agriculture, horticulture, fishery, and animal husbandry was imparted to the farmers. The programme was attended by the staffs of ICAR-KVK Chandel Dr. K. Sonamani Singh, SMS (Agri. Engg), Ts. Leenda Monsang, SMS (Plant Breeding), Ps. Lavid Anal SMS (Hort). Altogether 105 participants took part in the programme.

Chandel, 05/12/2024: World Soil Day observed at ICAR – KVK Chandel with the theme “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage”. The programme was attended by 43 farmers of Chandel district. Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS – Horticulture delivered lecture on the purpose of World Soil Day observance and its importance to the farmers. While Kamei Super, Senior Technical Officer (Farm Management) delivered lecture on soil fertility and health of the soil. The programme was also attended by Dehkhohao Doungel, Technical Officer (Computer Application). Soil Health Cards and input distribution were also distributed to the farmers on the auspicious occasion.

15/11/2024, Chandel:

Field day on rice var. RC – Maniphou-16 under AICRP on Seed (Crops) was organized by ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre in collaboration with ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra Chandel at Laiching Maipou Village today to showcase the performance of rice variety RC Maniphou – 16. The All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Seeds (Crops) is a significant initiative in India aimed at improving seed production and quality across various crops. The demonstration of rice variety RC Maniphou -16 is conducted under participatory seed production mode. During the programme, Ts. Leenda Monsang, SMS (Plant Breeding) highlighted the importance of quality seed production and its availability to the farmers in time and encourages other participating farmers to adopt quality seed production for sustainability. DK Yaima Maring, Chairman of Laiching Khullen village who was a dignitary of the programme, applauded the farmers for their hard work and encouraged them to continue the technology for food security. He was also elated to see the performance of rice variety RC Maniphou – 16 in the farmers’ fields. Later, farmer – scientist interaction programme was held with KVK experts – Ts. Leenda Monsang, SMS (Plant Breeding) and Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture). The programme was attended by 28 farmers and staff of KVK Chandel.