ITANAGAR, Mar 12: The Department of Agricultural Engineering of North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), Nirjuli conducted a one-day training cum demonstration programme for farmers at the Kamlesh Joshi conference hall of District Secretariat, Khonsa today.
Sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, through All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Ergonomics and Safety in Agriculture and Allied Sector (ESAAS), the program aimed to establish connections between farmers, research institutes, and state government officials. Its primary focus was to showcase various improved technologies, including women-friendly tools and equipment, designed to reduce labour and increase farmers' income.
The programme, graced by Jania Chimyang, Tirap District Agricultural Officer (DAO), and Tagom Ronya, Tirap District Horticulture Officer (DHO), saw about 55 progressive farmers in attendance.
The DAO (chief guest), in her speech, emphasized the importance of adopting appropriate technology with the right knowledge.
The DHO highlighted the need for mechanization in horticulture.
Dr Surya Chhetry, JPO, presented a lecture through audio-visual medium on ergonomically improved hand tools and equipment tailored for hilly regions. He also demonstrated several tools and equipment during the program.
The farmers appreciated the technologies developed by AICRP on ESAAS, NERIST center such as Kiwi vines pruner, backpack for load carrying in sherpa mode, NERIST improved sickle etc.