One daylong farmer training cum field demonstration of best practices of climate resilient agriculture and chemical free nutrient management of less
fertile hill soils was successfully conducted on 21st April 2026 at Lawsohtun Village, Mylliem block, East Khasi Hills district under the ongoing NICRA project. The main objective of the training was
to interact, expose and provide hands on experience on best practices of climate-resilient agricultural practices and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods. The programme commenced with the felicitation of
resource persons of ICAR NEH, Umiam viz., Dr. Krishnappa R. (Sr. Scientist and PI, NICRA) and Dr. Loitongbam Joymati Chanu (Scientist and Co-PI, NICRA), and village representatives, including, Mr. Lumbok Marbaniang
(Headman of Village), Mr. P.S. Nongkhlaw (Senior-most male farmer) and Mrs.Yorita Sohtun (Senior-most woman farmer) in recognition of their contributions and support towards organisation of said programme.
Dr. Nivetina Laitonjam, Research Associate under the project has initiated the programme highlighting the importance of community participation in
promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices under ongoing changing climate scenario. This was followed by Dr. Krishnappa R., who emphasised on “Urgency of adopting Climate Resilient Agriculture
practices and reduced or judicious or integrated use of chemical fertilisers in mountain soils”, plant deficiency driven nutrient management of low fertile acid soils and underscored the unique benefits
of using biochar in improving holistic soil health vis a vis enhancing crop resilience. Dr. Loitongbam Joymati Chanu then shared her insights on “Vermi-composting and its Use in Agriculture,” emphasizing
simple and sustainable practices for maintaining soil fertility. The village representatives Mr.Lumbok Marbaniang and Mr. P.S. Nongkhlaw also share their views on the problems faced by the farmers of Lawsohtun village.
As part of the programme, sweet corn seeds (500g each of best performing hybrids in the region viz., Golden honey and Madhuraj) and peach saplings (100no.)
were distributed among the participated farmers to support income generation and diversify their farming systems. A practical field demonstration cum hands-on training was conducted on vermicomposting and on-farm
rapid soil health testing was conducted by concerned scientist (Dr. L.Joymati Chanu) along with project staff (Mr. Subham Mishra, YP-I under NICRA). In addition, a demonstration on sweet corn sowing was done by Dr. Krishnappa R.
and Dr. Rajesh Khan, showcasing improved cultivation techniques. The programme was concluded with pronouncement of vote of thanks by Dr. Krishnappa R., expressing gratitude to all participants, tribal farmers (involving keen unemployed
youths and farm women) NICRA project and honourable Director of ICAR NEH, umiam for their active involvement and cooperation, funding support and granting approval for smooth conduct of the programme.
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