Training Programme on Organic Farming for Krishi Sakhis of SRLM, RMDD concludes

5^th August, 2019, Tadong

The 15-day Training Programme on “Organic Farming” organized for the Krishi Sakhis of Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM), Rural Management and Development Department (RMDD), Government of Sikkim at the ICAR-National Organic Farming Research Institute (ICAR-NOFRI), Tadong concluded today. The programme was started on 22^nd July, 2019.

The Chief Guest of the Valedictory Function, Shri Anil Raj Rai, Special Secretary, Rural Management and Development Department, Government of Sikkim regarded the Krishi Sakhis of RMDD as the symbol of women empowerment. He emphasized on the resolution of the problems in the marketing of organic produce with the construction of the Kisan Bazaar in Gangtok. Shri Rai briefed about the various programmes and activities being undertaken by the RMDD. He also felicitated the trainees with training certificates and extension folders.

The Guest of Honor, Shri Padam Subba, Director, Horticulture and Cash Crop Development Department (HCCDD), Government of Sikkim encouraged the Krishi Sakhis for their ITKs in fermented plant extract for the management of pest and diseases in Sikkim. He assured the full cooperation and support from the HCCDD for the production of horticultural crops in the State.

Earlier, Dr. R.K. Avasthe, Joint Director, ICAR-NOFRI highlighted the pivotal role being played by the Institute in the development of the organic production technologies in Sikkim. He encouraged the trainees for learning the organic farming technologies and working with dedication to become the ambassadors of ICAR-NOFRI and RMDD.

The trainees were provided with the details of “Concept of physico-chemical and microbiological properties of soil and it’s health”, “Organic nutrient management”, “Organic farming production standards”, “organic agronomic practices of major field crops”, etc., during the 15-day long training programme.

The participants were also provided the hands on experience and practical demonstrations for mushroom production technology, vermi-composting, plant propagation techniques, training and pruning of kiwifruit, etc.

A total of 25 Krishi Sakhis from the East and North Districts of Sikkim participated in the training programme.

(Source: ICAR-National Organic Farming Research Institute, Gangtok)