Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 25:
Having successfully cultivated paddy and potatoes under its Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme, the Department of Agriculture has started work to cultivate pulses (peas) at Haorang Keirel.
As a preparatory measure, AO (Chemistry) of Agriculture Department Pheiroijam Rajen conducted a demonstration on scientific cultivation of pulse cultivation for the farmers of New Era Farmers Union.
In connection with the initiative to cultivate Aparna variety of pea at 30 hectares, AO (Chemistry) Rajen, Prof Kh Ibohal of Entomology Department CAU and Prof Dr L Nabachandra of Agronomy Department, CAU educated the farmers on cultivation of pulses, protection from plant diseases and on harvesting peas.
Even though it is most suitable to cultivate peas in the early part of November, pulse cultivation was delayed due to floods and subsequent late harvesting of paddy.
Stating success or failure of the initiative depends on the farmers, Rajen assured that Agriculture Dept will provide all necessary materials.
The Integrated Pest Management programme will be semi-organic in nature.
Chemical fertilizers will be applied only at minimum level, said Prof Ibohal.