31 July 2026 Nadia, West Bengal
In an initiative to promote climate-smart and sustainable farming practices, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nadia (Additional) organized a Training-cum-Demonstration and Input Distribution Programme on Azolla cultivation for farmers of Nadia district with the support of ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kalyani Research Centre, Nadia.
The programme aimed to popularize Azolla, a fast-growing aquatic fern, for its dual benefits in Kharif rice cultivation and livestock feeding. Scientists highlighted the importance of Azolla as an eco-friendly bioresource capable of enhancing farm productivity while reducing cultivation costs. During the technical session, farmers were trained on the scientific methods of Azolla multiplication, installation of portable azolla bag, nutrient management, harvesting techniques, and maintenance practices. Live demonstrations enabled participants to understand the practical aspects of Azolla production for on-farm adoption.
Experts explained that Azolla can be effectively used as a biofertilizer in paddy fields, where its symbiotic association with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria helps enrich soil fertility, suppress weed growth, conserve soil moisture, and reduce the requirement of chemical nitrogen fertilizers. In addition, Azolla serves as a protein-rich feed supplement for dairy cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, ducks, and fish, thereby improving animal health, milk production, growth, and reducing feed costs.
As part of the programme, Azolla starter cultures along with essential inputs were distributed to participating farmers to facilitate immediate adoption of the technology in their farms. Farmers were also encouraged to integrate Azolla production with crop and livestock enterprises under the Integrated Farming System (IFS) approach for sustainable income enhancement.
Speaking on the occasion, the scientists of ICAR-NDRI-KVK emphasized that the adoption of Azolla technology can play a significant role in promoting eco-friendly rice cultivation, improving livestock nutrition, reducing dependence on external inputs, and strengthening climate-resilient agriculture in Nadia district.
The programme concluded with an interactive discussion where farmers shared their experiences and clarified technical queries regarding Azolla cultivation and its utilization in rice fields and animal feeding. The initiative reflects the continued commitment of ICAR-NDRI, KVK, Nadia (Additional), with the support of ICAR-CIFA, Kalyani Research Centre, to disseminate sustainable agricultural technologies for enhancing farmers' livelihoods and promoting integrated farming systems in the district.
(Source: ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, KVK, Nadia, additional)
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