28/11/2024
Farmers and Experts Convene at Tawang for Kisan Mela on Organic Farming
27th November 2024, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: The Kalawangpo Convention Hall in Tawang came alive with vibrant discussions and expert exchanges as farmers, agricultural specialists, and government officials gathered for the Kisan Mela and Kisan Gosthi on "Organic Farming." This significant event, organized by Regional Rainfed Lowland Rice Research Station, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Gerua, Assam, in collaboration with the District Agriculture Office, Tawang, the event aimed to promote sustainable and organic farming practices among farmers in the region.
The day began with welcoming the Chief Guest, Shri Kanki Darang, Deputy Commissioner of Tawang, and other dignitaries. The program officially commenced with the ICAR Song, symbolizing unity and commitment to agricultural progress.
A warm floral welcome and traditional felicitation of the dignitaries were followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Dr. GAK Kumar, Chairman of the NEH Component and Head of the Social Science Division, ICAR-NRRI, delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the day’s proceedings.
District officials Shri Toli Bam, District Agriculture Officer, Tawang and Shri Sofure Rahman, District Horticulture Officer, Tawang addressed the gathering, reiterating their departments’ commitment to supporting farmers and improving their livelihoods. Dr. Lohit Kumar Baishya, Campus Incharge, ICAR-IARI, Assam addressed the gathering and ensure full support will be provided to the farmers of this region to adapt latest scientific skill to uplift their income through organic agriculture.
The Chief Guest, Shri Kanki Darang, Deputy Commissioner, Tawang delivered an inspiring speech, urging farmers to embrace innovative organic farming techniques to improve productivity and sustainability. This was followed by a keynote address by Dr. A.K. Nayak, Director of ICAR-NRRI, Cuttack, who discussed the institute's groundbreaking research and its role in advancing organic agriculture in India.
The highlight of the event was the Farmer-Expert Interaction Session, where farmers voiced their concerns and received guidance from experts like Dr. A.K. Nayak, Dr. M.J. Baig, Dr. GAK Kumar, Dr. L.K. Baishya, Dr. A.K. Balenga, Dr. D. Gogoi and district agricultural officials. This interactive session fostered a deeper understanding of organic farming challenges and solutions.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Dr. Kanchan Saikia, In-charge Head of RRLRRS, ICAR-NRRI, Gerua, Assam. Participants then visited exhibition stalls that showcased the latest farming techniques, tools, and products designed to support organic farming practices.
To further empower the farmers, the event provided practical support by distributing agricultural inputs, including seeds of maize, sorghum, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, garden tool kits, and Leaf Colour Charts. These resources were aimed at helping farmers implement organic farming practices effectively and improve their productivity.