HT Correspondent
Biswanath Chariali, June 27: The District Agriculture Office, in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute, successfully organised the Grand Harvest Programme at 1 no Nalbari, Sootea. This significant event brought together farmers, experts, and officials to showcase innovative agricultural practices and government schemes designed to empower the farming community. The dedicated efforts of Pradip Talukder, the district nodal officer of APART in Biswanath, were instrumental in ensuring the program’s success.
Vivek Kumar, a scientist from the International Rice Research Institute, highlighted the advantages of utilising combined harvesters, package practices for rice cultivation, and various agricultural machines. His expertise shed light on how these technologies can enhance efficiency and increase yields for farmers.
Dibajyoti Phukan, the district agricultural officer, discussed the different schemes available in agriculture. These schemes aim to provide financial support, training, and technical assistance to farmers, promoting their well-being and improving their farming practices. Dhurbajyoti Das, the additional deputy commissioner of Biswanath, stated the significance of agriculture in daily life and the local economy. He praised the District Agriculture Office and its collaborators for organising an informative event that catered to the needs of the farming community.
The Northeastern Region Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute (NERFMTTI) showcased a variety of agricultural machines that can optimise farming operations. These offerings were well-received by attendees, providing valuable insights into the latest technology suitable for the agricultural sector. Program officer Dibyashree Saikia shared information about the PM-KISAN scheme and paddy procurement, illustrating the government’s commitment to financially supporting farmers and ensuring fair prices for their crops.
The event was graced by the presence of ADO Manesh Jyoti Gogoi, officials from APART and Assam Agriculture Mission, including Pankaj Baruah, Kristi Borah, Chaya Borah, and Nilastha Goswami. Alongside these esteemed individuals, 130 farmers actively participated in the program, making it a truly inclusive and informative gathering.
The Grand Harvest Programme served as a platform for farmers to acquire knowledge about modern agricultural practices, explore technological advancements, and understand the government schemes available to support their endeavours. The collaborative efforts of various organisations, coupled with the active participation of officials and farmers, showcased the collective commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and improving the lives of farmers in Biswanath and beyond.