DIMAPUR: A training cum farm machinery distribution programme was conducted at the KVK Kohima campus to support progressive farmers from selected villages in Kohima and Tseminyu districts. The programme was organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kohima, under ATARI Zone VII and sponsored by ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), NEH Programme, New Delhi.
In a brief address, principal scientist and head, KVK Kohima, Dr. Ruokuovilie Mezhatsu, underscored the significance of paddy as the staple food of the Naga people. He noted that for generations, rural households have depended on self grown paddy for sustenance. With the advancement of scientific farming practices, he said, the introduction of ergonomic tools and light farm machinery would help reduce farm drudgery, particularly for women farmers, while improving overall productivity.
The release informed that hands on demonstrations on the operation of manually operated paddy threshers and wheel hand hoes were conducted by Technical Officer (Farm), Dr. Sesenlo Kath. He explained that paddy threshers efficiently separate grains from stalks and husks, minimise weather related losses caused by delayed threshing, reduce grain breakage compared to traditional manual beating, and significantly lessen physical effort.
Highlighting the benefits of the wheel hand hoe, Dr. Kath said the implement effectively removes weeds between crop rows without damaging standing crops, loosens and aerates soil to improve water and air penetration, and enables farmers to work in a standing posture, thereby reducing back strain and fatigue associated with short handled hoes.
A total of 46 participants, including farmers’ groups, progressive farmers from Kohima and Tseminyu districts, and KVK officials, attended the programme. During the event, 30 paddy threshers, 30 wheel hand hoes, and Rabi vegetable seed kits were distributed to beneficiaries.
