Nagaland: Training on improved jute cultivation

Trainings on “Improved Cultivation of Jute” under the All India Network Project on Jute & Allied Fibres (AINPJAF) were conducted on February 4 at Yeveto village, Niuland, and on February 5 at Old Ralan village, Wokha.
According to a press release, the programme was organized by AINPJAF, Zonal Research Station, Shillongani, Nagaon, Assam Agricultural University (AAU), in collaboration with AICRP on Kharif Pulses, AICRP on Linseed, Nagaland University SAS, Medziphema Campus, and ATMA Niuland and Old Ralan blocks. Sponsored by AINPJAF, AAU-ZRS, Nagaon, the training saw active participation from 90 farmers across the two villages.
Village leaders and extension officials, including the village chairmen, BTM Demalu Hasnusa (Niuland block) and BTM Chophabeni Kikon (Old Ralan block), attended the programme alongside farmers.
Dr. Arup Kumar Sarma, in-charge of AINPJAF, highlighted the importance and prospects of jute as a cash crop and its value-added products in Nagaland. He addressed farmers’ queries on retting methods and fibre extraction techniques, crucial for quality jute production. Dr. Nabajyoti Bhuyan, principal investigator, AICRP on Rabi Pulses, elaborated on the scope of rabi pulse crops in Nagaland, emphasizing their role in crop diversification and income enhancement.
In the technical session, Dr. Lawrence Kithan, scientist (Agronomy), AICRP on Kharif Pulses, provided insights into the potential of pulses, while Dr. Virosanuo Solo, junior agronomist, AICRP on Linseed, highlighted vermicomposting techniques and management.
As part of the programme, essential agricultural inputs including jute seeds (Tarun variety), black gram seeds (SBC 40 variety), and vermicompost were distributed to farmers to encourage adoption of improved cultivation practices.