VKSA campaign spurs eco-friendly farming across Meghalaya on World Environment Day

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 6, 2025

As part of the nationwide celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, the seventh day of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) in Meghalaya focused on promoting eco-friendly farming practices, sustainable agriculture, and reducing environmental impact. The campaign also highlighted the global theme of “Ending Plastic Pollution,” raising awareness on the harmful effects of plastic waste on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.

Organized across 63 villages and 14 blocks, the campaign witnessed the active participation of 7,590 farmers. It facilitated direct interaction between farmers and agricultural experts, enabling practical knowledge-sharing and addressing local challenges in farming.

The technical sessions covered a wide range of topics including resource conservation technologies, animal husbandry, poultry and piggery farming, integrated farming systems, natural and organic farming, agroforestry, climate-resilient crops, mushroom cultivation, vertical farming, farm mechanization, and the use of modern technology such as drones, nano fertilizers, and custom hiring centres. Emphasis was placed on soil and water conservation, disease management in livestock, organic pest control, and post-harvest processing.

Farmers were introduced to improved crop varieties such as Khing Rasong rice, new maize types, buckwheat, finger millets, and the high-value Lakadong turmeric. Technologies developed by CAU and ICAR—including bio-enhancers, bio-pesticides, nursery techniques, silage preparation, and artificial insemination in pigs—were also demonstrated. Processing tools for ginger and turmeric available at ICAR Umiam were showcased to support value addition and improve crop quality.

Extension literature on good agricultural practices, citrus rejuvenation, composting, millet and buckwheat cultivation, organic management, pest control, pig and fish farming, and hydroponics was widely distributed.

The campaign also served as an awareness platform for various government schemes and farmer welfare programs including PM-KISAN, Kisan Credit Card, PMFBY, PKVY, PMKSY, MIDH, NFSM, MOVCD, CM-Assure, PRIME, Lakadong Mission, Floriculture Mission, Apiculture Mission, State Organic Mission, and others. Farmers were informed about available subsidies for seeds, sprayers, polyhouses, and more.

In support of the upcoming Kharif season, farmers received quality seeds of vegetables, rice, millets, and climate-resilient rice varieties.

Overall, the 7th day of the VKSA campaign encouraged farmers to shift towards more sustainable agricultural practices, reduce dependency on plastic, and adopt methods that ensure long-term ecological balance and food security.