DIMAPUR: A two-day, “Farmers-Scientist Interaction cum Field Visit for turmeric and king chilli farmers” under the Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) was organized by ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Peren at Tesen, on May 19-20.
The event, chaired by Dr. Prashant Kalal, Senior Scientist (SMS) – Fruit Science at KVK Peren, aimed to address challenges and explore innovative practices in the cultivation of turmeric and king chilli.
The programme brought together farmers from Tesen and New Tesen, along with FPO Tening CEO and members, to discuss issues related to their crops and share knowledge on effective agricultural practices.
Dr. Kalal highlighted the key challenges faced by king chilli farmers and introduced the improved package of practices for king chilli cultivation.
He urged farmers to adopt cultural, mechanical, and biological methods to manage pest infestations, insect-pests, and viral diseases. He also emphasized the importance of seed treatment with Trichoderma viridae and weed management to reduce pest problems in Rajamircha cultivation.
Z. James Kikon, advised the farmers to implement sustainable cultivation practices and discussed the processing and value addition of turmeric, encouraging farmers to develop a brand name for their produce.
He also covered improved cultivation practices, along with strategies for managing pests and diseases using on-farm resources.
Following the presentations, farmers and Subject Matter Specialists (SMS) conducted field visits to King Chilli and Turmeric farms, where they discussed pest and disease management techniques. Farmers also interacted with SMSs on topics related to organic cultivation and value addition, focusing on enhancing marketing opportunities for their produce.
To support the farmers, neem oil and yellow sticky pads were distributed to 41 participants from the Tening Block to help manage pest infestations.
Earlier, the welcome speech was delivered by CEO- Tening block FPO, Sikhone and vote of thanks by FPO project manager, DR. Rokozeno Chalieu.
KVK Peren holds ‘Farmers Scientist Interaction’
