Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Peren in collaboration with ICAR RC for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema organised a field day on HQPM-5 maize on August 12 at Jalukiekam village, Peren.
A press release by the department stated that the field day was carried out to show the performance of HQPM-5 maize variety in comparison to local cultivars to farmers of nearby villages.
ACTO plant breeding and genetics, KVK Peren Dr. Patu K Zeliang discussed on theme of the field day along with background of the varieties selected and its potential and the benefits of HQPM maize in local dialect to farmers.
She stressed about following the scientific package of practices of maize cultivation to obtain its maximum productivity.
During the program nutritious value, importance and future prospects of bio-fortified maize was discussed by scientist, plant breeding and genetics, ICAR Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Dr Harendra Verma. He encouraged the farmers to go for hybrid maize cultivation for higher economic returns but not to cultivate next season maize crop by using F2 seeds harvested from the hybrid maize plants.
Principal scientist and head, KVK Peren, Dr KL Meena asked the farmers to utilize the expertise of the ICAR & KVKs personnel to become more efficient in farming and to work in a holistic manner.
A farmer- scientist interaction was also conducted in which queries related to pest management and nutrient management was discussed.
After the programme, a team of plant breeders from ICAR Nagaland center and KVK Peren also monitored the RCM-9 rice field in same village, which was being grown for participatory rice seed production.