Kohima: Policymakers, scientists, and agricultural experts gathered in Medziphema on June 12 to develop strategies for reducing fertilizer consumption across Nagaland. The meeting, organized by the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, focused on improving nutrient-use efficiency and promoting long-term soil health through sustainable agricultural practices.
H. Kalita, head of the ICAR Regional Centre, opened the session by advocating for Integrated Nutrient Management. This approach balances the use of chemical fertilizers with organic manures and bio-fertilizers to protect the environment. Sanuzo Neinu, the Director of Agriculture, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for science-based interventions and better farmer education to secure future food supplies and farm profitability.
A central element of the event was the introduction of a draft action plan presented by Lahar J. Bordoloi of ICAR-KVK Kiphire. The proposal outlines a roadmap that includes soil testing, the use of precision farming technologies, and the promotion of natural farming. The plan also suggests creating a Decision Support System to guide farmers on site-specific nutrient needs.
Participants discussed how integrating livestock into farming systems could further lower the demand for synthetic inputs. Girish Patel, Director of ICAR-NRC on Mithun, explained that combining crop and livestock enterprises helps recycle nutrients naturally. I. Shakuntala Devi of the College of Veterinary Sciences added that these systems are essential for regional agriculture, stating, "The potential of livestock-based farming systems in enhancing soil fertility, supporting circular nutrient flows and contributing to environmentally sustainable agricultural development" remains a key priority for the state.
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