Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 28 October 2023
The Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Union Territory Agriculture Technology Management Agency (UTATMA), conducted a two-day training program on ‘Integrated Pest and Disease Management in Paddy Crops’ at the Panchayat hall of Radhanagar, a Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) village in Diglipur. The program took place on October 26 and 27, 2023, and brought together local farmers to enhance their knowledge and skills in crop protection.
The inaugural ceremony of the training program was graced by Mr. Rajendra Kumar, the Block Development Officer of Diglipur, who presided as the chief guest. During his address, Mr. Kumar emphasized the importance of ongoing education and skill development for farmers and encouraged them to take full advantage of the training opportunity.
Ms. Arti Singh, the Assistant Director of Agriculture in Diglipur, extended a warm welcome to the gathering and highlighted the significance of integrated pest and disease management in paddy crops. In addition, she provided insights into various government schemes implemented by the Department of Agriculture, including the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Credit Card, Integrated Nutrient Management, Minimum Support Price, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, and the Mission for Integrated Development for Horticulture Crops.
Dr. Nagnath Bhojane, the Senior Veterinary Officer from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH & VS), shed light on the importance of animal husbandry within the context of integrated pest and disease management. Mr. Dilip Kr. Halder, the Secretary of Keralapuram Primary Agriculture Credit Society (PACS), explained the significance of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) Scheme, along with the procedures involved. The Program Officer from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) also actively participated in the training program.
The training sessions were enriched with expert insights, covering various aspects of integrated pest and disease management. These sessions equipped participants with practical knowledge and strategies to protect paddy crops effectively. To provide a hands-on experience, a field visit was organised, allowing farmers to apply what they had learned during the training.
This two-day training program has empowered local farmers in Diglipur with valuable knowledge and skills for managing pests and diseases in paddy crops effectively. It underscores the commitment of the Department of Agriculture and UTATMA to support and enhance agricultural practices in the region, promoting sustainable and resilient farming methods.