Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 15:
Instead of the usual norm of keeping the land idle after reaping the paddy for the season, 28 youths, with the main motive of self-employment themselves, have jointly taken up the onus of cultivating seasonal vegetables with great success in over 21 paris of paddy field in Keibi Kumuda area under Imphal East district.
After coming together to form the Keibi Kumuda Progressive Farmers� Association, the 28 enterprising youths have set an example of a sort for others to utilise the paddy field which normally remains idle after harvesting the paddy in November-December till the next paddy cultivation season.
Appreciating their efforts, the result of which have started bearing fruits for all to inspire, an official team led by the Agriculture Officer (Chemistry), Soil Testing Laboratory, Dept of Agriculture yesterday went to the area and conducted testing of the soil and gave necessary advice to the young farmers.
Advisor of the Association W Ngouba said they took up the challenge with a firm conviction that increasing the agricultural products would only make it possible for the State to be self-reliant.
Out of the 21 paris of paddy field, 15 paris have been brought under Pea cultivation, Mustard in 5 paris and Potatoes in 2 paris, he informed.
The Association procured the required seeds of Pea and Mustard at subsidised rate from Agriculture Department and that of Potatoes from Horticulture Department, he further informed.
For irrigating the field, the Agriculture Department provided two water pump sets as well as three insecticide sprayers at subsidised rate, he added.
Boosting the morale of the young progressive farmers, Agriculture Officer (Chemistry) Ph Rajendro gave his assurance of extending all possible assistance to the Association.
The Agri officer also presented limestone power to the Association members.