Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) is a society of key stake holders that works to improve farming methods and bring the latest technologies and methods in farming to local farmers. It has been continually conducting programs, classes and trainings for farmers across the state to improve their yield and streamline their efforts. Following are some reports of its activities from across the state.
ATMA Longleng sets up farm school & conducts demonstration: ATMA Longleng, Sakshi block, set up an integrated farm school and conducted a demonstration program on “Vermi composting” and “nursery bed preparation” on February 1, at Auching village.
A press release from PD ATMA & DSO, Longleng, Ngangshimeyu, stated that the school was set up along with BTM, Moisen.
The school was established with an aim to impart to the people the benefits of incorporating various types of farming practices for improvement and utilization of limited resources in the best way possible to enhance productivity.
The demonstration program was held with resource person Athai AFA from Agriculture department, Longleng, who sensitized the people on the benefits of using vermin-compost as manure for growing plants.
Demonstrations were also shown on “Semi-intensive Piggery Housing” by ATMA Longleng BTM Sakshi block, Dr Moisen, to introduce to people the concept of semi-intensive rearing of pigs where a part of the pig shed can be left uncovered for various health benefits of animals which however can be optional depending upon space, climate and other factors.
ATMA Akuhaito Block inaugurates farm school: Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Akuhaito Block on January 18 inaugurated an integrated farm school at Litsami village.
According to a press release by ATMA Akuhaito Block, JA reserved, DEF Mokokchung, Kitskha Achumi, said the farm school was not only a resource for interested farmers of a particular crop/allied activity, but also a resource for the entire village as well as neighboring villages, which will provide essential need based information and training.
Referring to the unemployment problem, Achumi said the farm school could help in reducing it if the youth take interest in farming and are willing to work hard.
The release stated that Hekiye Sema was appointed as the farm teacher along with five progressive farmers.
ATMA Tseminyu block training & demonstration: ATMA Tseminyu block conducted training and demonstration programs at T. Zisunyu and Tseminyu village on January 17.
A press release from ATMA Tseminyu block stated that preparation of chilli pickle and nursery bed management of Cole crops were taught by the block ATM, Sharon Kent. She encouraged them to make pickles for personal consumption as well as for additional income and to make full use of extra abundant resources. She also discussed maintenance of Cole crop nursery bed and thinning and spacing after transplanting into fields. They were encouraged to come forward with their queries and curiosities to the Agri and allied departments from where the best solution to their doubts can be had.
Ahthibung block Capacity Building on SHG concept: Ahthibung block under Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Peren conducted a Capacity Building program on ‘Concept of Self Help Group’ on December 17, at Saijang village.
The resource person was ATM of Ahthibung Block Lireni Lotha.
A press release issued by ATMA Ahthibung Block stated that Lireni trained the farmers on the basic concepts of SHG formation such as maintaining homogeneity in group formation based not only on their common interests but also age group, sex, etc., opening a joint bank account, maintenance of record books, holding regular meetings, inter-lending at low interest rates etc.
She also mentioned the criteria for linkage with banks and the possible loans they could avail once their SHGs were properly established.
This was followed by light refreshment. Altogether 19 farmers attended the program.