Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 19 2010:
The Department of Agriculture, Farm Mechanisation Division has set a target of distributing 4000 to 5000 Kono weeders for use in System of Rice Intensification method of cultivation.
This was stated by Agriculture SE K Manoranjan while inspecting agricultural fields Mapao Keithelmanbi in Senapati district where SRI method was initiated on June 29 .
Paddy seeds of PAC 801 were sown on June 29 followed by transplantation of young paddy plants 12 days later.
The official team who inspected the paddy plants cultivated under SRI method at Mapao Keithelmanbi today included ICDP Rice in-charge L Ibomcha and Seeds and Pulses scheme in-charge Ch Jugindro and others.
Later, at a simple function held at Mapao Keithelmanbi community hall, seeds of hybrid maize variety Puspa were distributed to the local farmers for cultivation in winter season.
The official team also provided the farmers with sprayers, two Kono weeders, sagolhawai seeds and also four bags of fertilizers.
Speaking at the function, the Agriculture officials asked the farmers to come and consult with officials of the department as and when required.