Dimapur, March 6 (MExN): ATMA Dimapur conducted farmer-scientist interaction on March 1 at S. Hotovi Village. The resource person for the training was James Kikon, Subject Matter Specialist (KVK), Jharnapani and Dr. Aapon Yanthan, ICAR, Dimapur.
James spoke on integrated nutrient management (INM). He said INM is maintenance of soil fertility and plant nutrient supply at an optimum level for sustaining the desired productivity through optimization of the benefits from all possible sources of organic, inorganic and biological components in an integrated manner. He also illustrated on the advantages of INM - it enhances the availability of applied as well as native soil nutrients, synchronizes the nutrient demand of the crop with nutrient supply from native and applied sources, informed a press release received here. It also provides balanced nutrition to crops and minimizes the antagonistic effects resulting from hidden deficiencies and nutrient imbalance, improves and sustains the physical, chemical and biological functioning of soil and also minimizes the deterioration of soil, water and ecosystem by promoting carbon sequestration, reducing nutrient losses to ground and surface water bodies and to atmosphere.
Dr. Yanthan spoke on techniques in cucurbits cultivation. Cucurbits are cross pollinated in nature and honeybees are major pollinator; thus for pure seed production, an isolation distance all around seed field is necessary to separate it from fields of other varieties, fields of the same variety not confirming to varietal purity requirement, he said. He also stated that seed crop should be raised in a se ason which remains dry at the time of seed maturity and seed extraction. Rainy season is preferred over summer season for raising seed crop. Locations are also important in seed production with reference to seed yield and quality of seed.
The press release issued by ATMA Dimapur, Kuhuboto Block BTM, Akavi Holo said that the programme, which was chaired by Demalu Hasnusa, BTM (ATMA), Niuland Block, concluded with an interaction with the participants.
