Aizawl: The Mizoram government has launched the Centre’s initiative to curb soil degradation, encourage the use of soil-tested fertilizers and natural farming methods, officials said on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare program ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ was launched by state Governor Vijay Kumar Singh at Lok Bhavan on Monday, they said.
As part of the month-long campaign, agricultural scientists, KVK officials and state representatives will hold seminars and training programs to educate farmers on reducing excessive use of chemical fertilisers, especially urea, officials said.
Speaking on the occasion, Singh expressed his concerns over the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in an effort to increase crop productivity, as these practices have negatively affected agricultural lands and human health.
He called for greater efforts to protect agricultural lands through soil conservation, balanced use of fertilizers and natural agricultural practices.
Highlighting the Centre’s national mission on natural agriculture, Singh stressed the importance of gradual shift towards natural agricultural practices to protect the environment and quality of agricultural products.
Regular soil testing is essential to identify nutrient deficiencies and ensure crops receive proper nutrition, he said.
Singh urged agricultural scientists and experts to effectively support farmers in adopting sustainable farming techniques.
Pointing out that agriculture remains the backbone of Mizoram’s economy, the governor said the state can achieve self-sufficiency in food production and maximize farmers’ income through coordinated efforts of experts and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
He pointed out that Mizoram’s crops are unique because of the continued practice of jhum cultivation on mountain slopes, where maintaining a balance of nutrients is a major challenge.
Singh also called for continuous training of farmers in modern scientific techniques, establishing stronger linkages with the market to improve the sale of produce and greater focus on producing healthy, high-value organic crops.
Vice Chancellor of Central Agricultural University, Anupam Mishra, who spoke on the occasion, stressed the need to reduce energy consumption in food grain production.
The event was attended by the state Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, PC Vanlaruata, officials from various departments and farmers from across the state.
The initiative will also promote green manure, bio-fertilizers and organic nutrient sources to improve soil health while helping farmers access targeted government support schemes, they said.
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