5th-6th February 2025, Nimpith
A National Workshop on the Use of Polymulching in Agriculture: Challenges and Opportunities was jointly organized by ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal, ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, and Ramkrishna Ashram Krishi Vigyan Kendra (RAKVK), Nimpith under the Microplastic Project of ICAR-IISS, Bhopal, sponsored by GCRF-UKRI, Government of the UK, on 5th – 6th February 2025. The workshop brought together scientists, academicians, and progressive farmers to deliberate on the benefits, challenges, and environmental implications of plastic mulching in agriculture.
The Chief Guest, Swami Sadananda, Chairman, RAKVK, Nimpith, urged the need for responsible and scientific use of polymer mulching to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental risks.
Dr Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata, underscored the importance of integrating sustainable polymulching practices with soil health management, aligning them with the principles of a circular economy. While mulching enhances moisture conservation and weed suppression, he cautioned that excessive plastic use without effective disposal, can harm soil microbiota, reduce fertility, and contribute to microplastic pollution, necessitating policy interventions for eco-friendly materials, farmer awareness, and incentive-driven recycling models.
Dr B. Mandal, Former Pro-Vice-Chanellor, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, urged the need for innovation in biodegradable mulch films, which could offer the benefits of traditional mulching while reducing microplastic accumulation.
The second day of the workshop featured a hands-on demonstration on the safe and effective use of poly-mulching in agriculture, followed by a field visit, allowing participants to observe practical applications and best practices in real-time.
A total of 50 participants attended the programme.
(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)
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