DIMAPUR: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre on Thursday organised a Field Day on Newly Developed Rice Varieties, showcasing seven improved rice varieties developed specifically for the agro-climatic conditions of Nagaland and encouraging their adoption among the state’s farming communities.
A field visit formed the highlight of the programme, during which scientists and farmers jointly inspected demonstration plots of the newly developed rice varieties. Explaining their characteristics and performance, Scientist in Plant Breeding and Genetics, Dr. Harendra Verma, said the varieties were developed to address major challenges faced by rice farmers in Nagaland, including long crop duration, drought susceptibility, diseases and insect pests.
According to the scientists, the seven rice varieties mature within approximately 115 to 120 days, offer a yield potential of 5 to 7 tonnes per hectare and possess tolerance to major biotic and abiotic stresses. Approved for release in April, the varieties are the outcome of more than nine years of research involving the evaluation of nearly 990 breeding lines and the shortlisting of 30 promising candidates before identifying the final seven superior varieties.
The field demonstrations generated significant interest among farmers, many of whom expressed their willingness to adopt the new varieties after observing their growth, adaptability and yield performance under field conditions. Farmers who had already cultivated some of the varieties also shared positive experiences, particularly regarding higher yields and improved crop performance.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. H. Kalita stressed the importance of transferring improved agricultural technologies from research stations to farmers’ fields. He noted that short-duration and high-yielding varieties could play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and profitability of rice-based farming systems in the state.
Appreciating the performance of the new varieties, Moaienla Pongen encouraged farmers to adopt improved cultivars that are well-suited to local conditions and capable of delivering better returns. David Awomi highlighted that the adoption of high-yielding and stress-tolerant varieties could contribute significantly to increased production, higher farm incomes and improved livelihoods.
Addressing the farmers, Limanenla urged them to embrace scientific innovations and make use of the newly developed rice varieties. She said their shorter duration, higher productivity and stress tolerance could help farmers increase cropping opportunities and improve income. She also called upon agricultural field functionaries to actively promote the varieties across the state so that the benefits reach a larger farming population.
The successful field day marked an important step towards the wider dissemination and adoption of the newly released rice varieties, with the enthusiastic response from farmers indicating growing demand for climate-resilient, high-yielding rice technologies in Nagaland.
The programme brought together officials from the Department of Agriculture, scientists from ICAR Nagaland Centre, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) representatives and farmers from different parts of the state. A total of 56 farmers from Sovima, Henvi, Chumoukedima Village, Dhansiripar and Singrijan participated in the event.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Harendra Verma, who expressed appreciation to the participating officials, scientists, KVK representatives and farmers for their support in advancing improved rice technologies in the state.
