PASIGHAT, Feb 9: A three-day training-cum-input distribution programme on ‘Integrated Pest Management in Maize’ concluded at the College of Agriculture, CAU (I), Pasighat today for the farmers of Sikabamin, East Siang district under the ICAR-NRIIPM, New Delhi funded project titled ‘Establishment of Crop Based Model IPM Villages for Promotion of Integrated Pest Management Technologies in NEH Region of India’.
A total of 45 farmers participated in the training programme.
Altogether, 14 lectures including hands-on training were delivered in the three-day event by various faculties of College of Agriculture as well as College of Horticulture and Forestry, CAU (I), Pasighat.
Dean CoA Dr Sanjay Swami, who graced the inaugural and valedictory programmes, enlightened farmers about the role of beneficial soil microbes in sustainable crop protection.
In her lecture, organizing secretary Dr Naorem Yaiphabi Chanu emphasized on IPM principles, identification of major maize insect pests, farmscaping-based habitat manipulation and demonstrated the use of pheromone and light traps along with preparation of NSKE for eco-friendly pest management.
Dr R C Shakywar talked about the importance of maize in farming systems and yield loss due to diseases. Dr. Gireesh Chand educated about integrated disease management in maize. Various faculties including Dr Denisha Rajkhowa and Dr Ajaykumara K M shared their knowledge about the role of biocontrol agents in IPM and on-farm preparation of natural farming inputs.
Inputs in the form of knapsack sprayers and pheromone traps of fall armyworm were distributed to the participants.