Natural farming training programme conducted at Pongching village

Kohima

BY | Monday, 14 September, 2026

The ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Longleng conducted a five-day Natural Farming Training Programme at Pongching Village, Longleng district, Nagaland from September 10 to 14 to enhance farmers’ technical knowledge and practical skills in adopting sustainable, low-cost and eco-friendly farming practices.

A total of 32 farmers participated in the five-day training programme. The training comprised technical sessions, practical demonstrations, farmer–expert interactions and field-level discussions covering various aspects of natural farming.

The training covered the principles and importance of natural farming, chemical-free farming, soil health management, seed treatment, nutrient management, botanical pest and disease management, mulching, crop residue management and climate-resilient farming practices suited to the

agroecological conditions of Nagaland.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

As part of the practical component, demonstrations were conducted on the preparation and use of

Beejamrit, Jeevamrit, Neemastra and Agniastra. Farmers were trained in utilizing locally available farm resources, including livestock-based inputs and plant materials, for preparing natural farming formulations and reducing dependence on external agricultural inputs.

The training also emphasized soil microbial health, moisture conservation, prevention of soil erosion, recycling of farm biomass and diversified/intercropping-based farming systems. Particular emphasis was given to the use of mulching and crop residues for improving soil health, conserving moisture and enhancing the resilience of farming systems.

The training programme was led by Shubhendu Kumar Behera, Subject Matter Specialist, ICAR–KVK, Longleng, who coordinated the programme and conducted the technical sessions and practical demonstrations. The programme was conducted under the guidance of the Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR–KVK, Longleng, with technical support from KVK experts and invited technical resource persons.

The five-day training programme concluded on September 14 with a valedictory session, participant feedback, assessment and distribution of certificates to the trainees. The programme marked an important step towards strengthening farmers’ technical capacity and promoting the adoption of natural farming practices in the district.