APC Y Kikheto Sema trying out cano weeder, a mini tool machine used for ploughing the field during the visit to Naga Model Integrated Settled Farming (N-iSF) at Boke-Botsa, Kohima on July 17. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, July 17 (MExN): The working committee led by APC, Y Kikheto Sema, IAS visited Boke-Botsa on Saturday to review the progress of activities being implemented under the Naga Model Integrated Settled Farming (N-iSF).
Under N-iSF all the agri and allied departments are converging under one umbrella to develop a cluster where the farmers will be facilitated to carry agri and allied related activities. The model is envisaged to be self-sustaining for the villagers and at the same time the surplus produce can be sold off to the nearby markets enhancing the earnings and the livelihood of the farmers.
According to a DIPR report, the APC informed the farmers that the State is going through a prolonged drought facing deficit rainfall which has adversely affected the agricultural activities. However, Boke-Botsa has been naturally blessed with a perennial water catchment area and also the villagers have maintained a large stretch of conserved areas, thus the brunt of the drought is felt less in these areas.
APC appealed to focus on more conservation of forests to reduce the effects of climate change phenomenon. He also urged the farmers to focus on settled farming rather than Jhum as the former requires lesser area and produces better yield and eco-friendly.
The APC stated that under PM-KISAN, altogether 2 lakh farmers have been benefitted in the State and an amount of 251.75 crore has been directly credited in their individual bank accounts by the Centre Government. He advised the farmers to invest this amount prudently in meeting the agricultural requirements of their farms rather than wasteful consumption expenditure.
Appealing the village councils and farmers to be more realistic in planning as per the local dynamics of the village, the APC said they should bring focus on creation of more ponds, check dams, diversion of rivulets in convergence schemes of Department of Rural Development under MGNREGA. He also encouraged the youths to take up community farming/contract farming and in these extraordinary times, to look up to God in prayer and seek His wisdom and guidance.
He also informed that ‘once this project is successful the same would be implemented in other districts too.’
