In a major push towards sustainable agriculture in Nagaland, Dr Akshay Ujjwal, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) at KVK Dimapur, has urged farmers to adopt organic rice cultivation practices to boost both crop quality and productivity. Speaking at a recent farmer training session, Dr. Ujjwal shared valuable insights on improving rice production through organic methods suited to Nagaland's unique agro-climatic conditions.
Dr. Ujjwal specifically recommended the use of vermicompost 5.0 to 8.0 tonnes per hectare and FYM 12.5 to 15 tonnes per hectare in rice fields before transplanting seedlings, noting its benefits in enriching soil fertility and improving plant health.
“Vermicompost increases soil organic matter and enhances microbial activity, leading to stronger and healthier rice plants,” Dr. Ujjwal explained.
He also suggested that farmers should transplant 21-day-old seedlings into the fields. According to him, this age is ideal as the plants are well-established in the nursery and capable of withstanding field conditions better, which leads to uniform growth and higher yields.
In addition, Dr. Ujjwal encouraged farmers to explore and adopt the latest high-yielding and certified organic rice varieties (RC-Maniphou-7, 14, 15, Pusa Suganda-2) to improve both quality and productivity. These improved varieties are better adapted to changing climate conditions and offer higher resistance to pests and diseases.
“Traditional rice varieties are valuable, but combining them with improved, certified seeds can ensure food security and increase income for our farmers,” he added.
Farmers attending the session responded positively to the advice and expressed interest in adopting these practices in the upcoming planting season. Many acknowledged the need for updated knowledge and technical support as organic farming continues to gain momentum in the region.
With the growing demand for organic produce both within India and globally, Nagaland’s organic rice has strong market potential. Initiatives like these, led by experts such as Dr. Ujjwal under the banner of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and supported by the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER), are helping empower farmers with sustainable and profitable agricultural practices.
