May 11, 2026: An Awareness campaign on the balanced use of fertilizers held at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Chandel, where experts emphasized the importance of scientific nutrient management for sustainable agricultural development. The programme witnessed the active participation of 21 farmers from different parts of the district.

The event was organized with the objective of creating awareness among farmers on the judicious and balanced application of fertilizers to improve soil health, crop productivity, and environmental sustainability. The programme was presided over by the presidium members comprising Dr. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head; Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding); Dr. Kl. Levish Chongloi, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy); and Ps. Lavid Anal, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture).

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ameeta Devi highlighted the urgent need for adopting balanced fertilizer practices to maintain long-term soil fertility and ensure sustainable crop production. She stated that excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers not only degrades soil quality but also affects the environment and human health. She encouraged farmers to adopt soil testing and integrated nutrient management practices for better yields and economic returns.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kl. Levish Chongloi, SMS (Agronomy), elaborated on the scientific methods of fertilizer application and stressed the importance of applying the right fertilizer at the right time and in the right quantity. She also discussed the benefits of integrating organic manures with chemical fertilizers to enhance soil structure and moisture retention capacity.

Ts. Leenda Monsang emphasized the role of improved crop varieties and proper nutrient management in achieving higher productivity. She urged farmers to select suitable crop varieties and combine them with balanced fertilizer application for optimum performance in the field.

Meanwhile, Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture), spoke about balanced nutrient management in horticultural crops. She advised farmers to promote the use of organic inputs and bio-fertilizers in fruit and vegetable cultivation to improve product quality and reduce dependency on excessive chemical fertilizers.

The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers shared their experiences and the experts clarified the farmers’ doubts regarding fertilizer management practices.

Chandel, April 24, 2026: An awareness campaign on the balanced use of fertilizers was successfully conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Chandel in collaboration with Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA–Chandel) on April 24, 2026. The programme witnessed active participation from 48 farmers, including 31 male and 17 female farmers from different parts of the district.

The programme was attended by distinguished presidium members, namely Lovejoy Anal, District Agriculture Officer, Chandel, Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding) and Lavid Anal, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture) of ICAR – KVK Chandel.

Addressing the gathering, District Agriculture Officer Lovejoy Anal emphasized the importance of balanced fertilizer application in farmers’ fields for sustainable crop production and maintaining long-term soil health. He informed the farmers about the adverse effects of excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and encouraged them to adopt scientific nutrient management practices. He also briefed the participants on various government schemes and support programmes related to fertilizer distribution and agricultural inputs available for farmers in the district.

During the technical session, Ts. Leenda Monsang elaborated on the importance of balanced fertilizer use in enhancing crop productivity, improving seed quality, and increasing overall farm income. She explained that proper application of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in recommended doses plays a vital role in healthy crop growth and higher yields. She further highlighted the importance of integrated nutrient management practices, combining organic manures, bio-fertilizers, and chemical fertilizers to improve soil fertility and maintain ecological balance. She also encouraged farmers to adopt scientific crop and seed production technologies for sustainable agriculture and better economic returns.

Speaking on the occasion, Ps. Lavid Anal stressed the significance of balanced fertilizer management in horticultural crops such as fruits and vegetables. She explained that improper fertilizer application can negatively affect plant growth, fruit quality, and soil productivity. She encouraged farmers to use organic manure along with chemical fertilizers in a balanced and timely manner to improve crop quality, enhance nutrient uptake, and maintain soil health. She also highlighted the role of micronutrients in horticulture production and advised farmers to adopt scientific nutrient management practices for achieving higher productivity and sustainable horticulture farming.

The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers shared their experiences and clarified their doubts regarding fertilizer management practices and crop production technologies. The awareness campaign aimed to create awareness among farmers on the scientific and judicious use of fertilizers for improving agricultural productivity while conserving soil and environmental health.

Chandel, 18/03/2026: In a significant move toward enhancing nutritional security and boosting farm income in the region, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Chandel organized a specialized “Field Day” today at M Gamnom Village, situated within the Sajiktampak, Chakpikarong block, Chandel District. The event focused on the performance and benefits of the IPL 220 lentil variety, drawing 20 progressive farmers from the village and its surrounding areas.

Addressing the gathering, Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding), provided an in-depth technical overview of the IPL 220 variety. She emphasized that this specific variety has been meticulously developed for the North East Plain Zone (NEPZ) of India, making it ideally suited for the local agro-climatic conditions of Chandel. She highlighted that unlike traditional varieties, IPL 220 is biofortified, which is naturally bred to contain higher levels of essential micronutrients. She explained that the lentil variety is rich in Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), and Selenium (Se) and stated that “the variety is not just a crop; it is a tool to combat ‘hidden hunger’ and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among women and children in our rural communities.”

The variety boasts high resistance to major threats such as Rust, Fusarium Wilt, and Stemphylium Blight, significantly reducing the need for chemical interventions. It reaches maturity within 120–125 days, offering a substantial potential yield of 15–20 quintals per hectare.

The programme was graced by the presence of the Village Chief, Lunkhopao, along with representatives from the Kana Area farmers. From the KVK side, Ps. Lavid Anal, SMS (Horticulture), and Dehkhohao Doungel, Technical Officer (CA), were also present to facilitate the interaction and address farmer queries regarding crop management, its diversification and mobile advisory.

The Field Day concluded with a crop demonstration, where farmers observed the standing crop’s health and vigour. The successful showcase of IPL 220 underscores KVK Chandel’s commitment to introducing climate-resilient and nutritionally superior crop varieties to the doorsteps of tribal farmers.

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.