ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Longleng is leading a transformative agricultural movement under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) 2025, a national campaign aimed at empowering farmers through science, innovation, and inclusive development.
Launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guided by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, VKSA 2025 envisions a modern and self-reliant farming sector rooted in grassroots realities.
In just eight days, the campaign in Longleng district has achieved remarkable outreach, covering 45 villages through nearly 70 intensive field visits. A total of 11,051 farmers—comprising 5,927 men and 5,124 women—actively participated in training sessions, awareness drives, and field demonstrations. The campaign is being spearheaded by Dr Hari Charan Kalita, Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR-KVK Longleng, under the guidance of Dr Homeswar Kalita, Head of ICAR Nagaland Centre. It is further strengthened by the active support of W Manpai Phom, Deputy Commissioner of Longleng, and closely monitored by Dr S Hazarika, Director of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region. Strategic oversight is being provided by Dr AK Mohanty, Director of ICAR-ATARI Zone VII, and Dr A Mishra, Vice Chancellor of CAU Imphal.
Day 8 of the campaign, held on June 6 at Orangkong village, proved to be a landmark event. The programme recorded a significant turnout with 1,432 farmers attending in person and a total of 2,244 registrations, including participants from Orangkong, Bahok, and Shaule villages.
MLA B Bangtick Phom, who graced the occasion, lauded ICAR-KVK Longleng for reaching remote and tribal communities with science-based agricultural knowledge.
He emphasized that such initiatives are not only transforming agriculture but are also fostering confidence, self-reliance, and modernity among rural farmers.
He encouraged farmers to adopt the technologies and practices being introduced, noting that such steps will lead to long-term prosperity and food security in the region.
Also present were YB Angam, President of the Phom People’s Council, and W Manpai Phom, Deputy Commissioner of Longleng, whose support has been integral to the campaign’s success.
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The programme at Orangkong featured focused sessions on region-specific agricultural and livestock challenges. Farmers received technical guidance on managing insect pests in maize, identifying and controlling leaf curl disease in chilli, and improving soil health for cucurbit crops. Strategies to combat powdery and downy mildew in pumpkins were also shared. Vermicomposting demonstrations were conducted to promote sustainable manure practices, and participants were trained on acid soil management. They were also introduced to value addition methods for oranges, a locally significant fruit crop.
The livestock component included training on deworming practices for pigs and dogs, castration techniques for improved herd health, and mineral supplementation in poultry. Awareness was raised about African Swine Fever (ASF) and its prevention. A live demonstration on agricultural drones showcased how precision technology can revolutionize modern farming, capturing the imagination of young and tech-savvy farmers.
With only the Tamlu block yet to be covered, the VKSA campaign in Longleng is nearing full district coverage. The participation of farmers, especially from remote tribal communities, highlighted their willingness to embrace natural farming, scientific pest and disease management, and climate-resilient agriculture. Feedback gathered from participants is being used to shape future programs for greater relevance and impact.
As the VKSA 2025 campaign continues to gain momentum in Longleng, ICAR-KVK said it remains steadfast in its mission of taking science to the field. The campaign not only provides practical solutions but also inspires farmers to become proactive contributors to India’s evolving agricultural landscape.
