ICAR pushes climate-resilient farming in Sikkim under Khet Bachao Abhiyan

Gangtok, Jun 29 (PTI) In a bid to strengthen climate-resilient agriculture in the Himalayan region, a wing of the ICAR stressed the need for sustainable farming practices in the hills. The event was organised by the Sikkim centre of the ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region (NEH), at Kussong village in Upper Dzongu area of North Sikkim under the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav (MGMG) initiative and Khet Bachao Abhiyan, an initiative of the central government. According to an ICAR statement, the programme, held on Sunday, brought together 17 farmers and agricultural scientists to promote sustainable farming practices, efficient resource management and scientific interventions tailored to the fragile hill ecosystem. It said that the interaction was led by Dr Ashok Kumar, Head of the Regional Centre, and Dr Saurav Saha, Senior Scientist (Agricultural Physics). Addressing the farmers, Kumar stressed the need for wider adoption of improved agricultural technologies, integrated farming systems and resource-conserving practices to boost productivity and improve rural livelihoods. "Farmers should make effective use of scientific interventions for sustainable agricultural development," he said, urging cultivators to embrace modern, climate-smart farming techniques. During the technical session, Saha highlighted the role of mulching in conserving soil moisture, suppressing weeds and improving soil health. He also emphasised the efficient utilisation of organic resources, improved vegetable cultivation, scientific nursery management and the use of quality planting materials to enhance crop yields and produce quality. The scientist further advocated Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) through the balanced application of organic manures, compost, biofertilisers and green manure to maintain soil fertility and sustain long-term crop productivity. A field visit formed a key part of the programme, with scientists assessing crop conditions and offering location-specific recommendations on nutrient management, moisture conservation and sustainable cultivation practices. The programme concluded with an interactive session in which farmers raised local agricultural challenges and shared field experiences. The scientists assured them of continued technical guidance and extension support under the MGMG programme and Khet Bachao Abhiyan, the statement said. The Khet Bachao Abhiyan seeks to create awareness about soil health management, balanced use of fertilisers, natural farming practices, water conservation and scientific crop management. PTI COR NN