KVK hosts field day to introduce Kadiri Lepakshi groundnut variety

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 29, 2025

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), East Garo Hills (CAU-I), Meghalaya, organized a field day on the promotion of the groundnut variety Kadiri Lepakshi (K-1812) under an organic management system at Doba Apal village, Resubelpara C&RD Block, North Garo Hills.

The event, held on June 26, was funded by the Indian Institute of Groundnut Research, Junagadh, Gujarat, and conducted in collaboration with BAKDIL, SeSTA, and ATMA, North Garo Hills. It involved 80 beneficiaries, marking the first large-scale initiative to introduce groundnut cultivation in the district. A total of 39 farmers from eight adopted villages participated in the programme.

Dr. Yanglem Sofia Devi, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) and Principal Investigator of the project, emphasized the benefits of crop diversification and the importance of shifting away from monoculture practices. She highlighted how the introduced technology could improve cropping intensity and enhance farmers’ income.

Officials from the Department of Agriculture—Dr. Manisha Ch. Momin and Ornella K. Sangma, both Agriculture Development Officers—spoke on the positive impact of groundnut cultivation on soil health and its potential for income generation. P.N. Raju from MSRLS (ECRP) underlined the significance of natural farming methods for the crop.

Representatives from BAKDIL, including Tomistar Sangma and Premika Marak, shared their insights during the interactive session, alongside other officials and stakeholders.

Beneficiaries such as Panchi Marak, Arrillia Marak, and Bringstone Momin also shared their experiences and appreciation for the demonstrated technology. The event concluded on a high note, with farmers expressing enthusiasm and a keen interest in participating in the next cropping season.