One-day training, input distribution and crop cutting programmes conducted on Rabi Rajma & Lentil in South Tripura District under IIPR NER Sub-plan
One-day Farmers’ Training-cum-Input Distribution Programmes on “Good Agricultural Practices of Summer Black Gram and Green Gram” were successfully conducted at Doulbari, Sabroom (15 March 2026) and Haripur, Hrsishyamukh (18 March 2026) of South Tripura district. Approximately 100 farmers actively participated in the programme. The initiative aims to bring about cultivation of summer pulses in around 8 ha in Sabroom and 30 ha in Hrishyamukh sub-division.
During the programmes, farmers were provided with quality inputs including seeds of Black Gram (IPU 13-1 & IPU 11-02) and Green Gram (IPM 410-3), along with manual seed drills, Trichoderma, PSB, KMB, Rhizobium, micronutrients, manual ridgers, hermetic storage bags, and fertilizers. Field-level demonstrations on seed treatment using Trichoderma viride and line sowing of pulses using a manual seed drill were also conducted, enabling farmers to gain practical knowledge of improved cultivation practices.
Following the training, the project team led by Dr. Abhijit Saha visited Rajma and Lentil fields in South Tripura, covering intervention areas of 25 ha (Rajma) and 35 ha (Lentil). Scientific crop cut evaluations were conducted in both local and improved variety plots. The results indicated an estimated yield increase of 12–15% in improved varieties. Farmers observed better pod number and seed size in improved varieties such as Kashipur Farash Bean (Rajma) and L-4717 (Lentil). At present, Rajma crops are nearing maturity and are expected to be harvested within 10–12 days, while Lentil harvesting is already in progress.
The programme received positive feedback from farmers, who expressed satisfaction with the technical support, input supply, and demonstrated benefits of improved agricultural practices.
Eight-day Training Programme on
Recent Advances in Pulse Production Technologies for Strengthening Food and Nutritional Security among Smallholder Farmers in North East India
An eight-day intensive training programme exclusively for farmers on “Recent Advances in Pulse Production Technologies for Strengthening Food and Nutritional Security among Smallholder Farmers in North East India” has started on 23rd March, 2026 and will continue until 30th March, 2026 under “Promotion of Pulses in NEH Region” in collaboration with ICAR–Indian Institute of Pulses Research (ICAR-IIPR), Kanpur.
The programme is being organized by ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Imphal with the objective of enhancing the knowledge and skills of smallholder farmers on improved pulse production technologies suited to the agro-ecological conditions of the North Eastern Hill (NEH) region.
The inaugural session was graced by Dr. S. Basanta Singh, Head of Regional Centre, as the Chief Guest, who emphasized the importance of pulses in ensuring nutritional security and improving soil health in the region. Dr. Kh. Rishikanta Singh, Senior Scientist (Agricultural Economics) attended as the Guest of Honour and highlighted the economic benefits of adopting improved technologies.
Dr. N. Anando Singh, Course Director & Senior Scientist (Agronomy) outlined the objectives and structure of the training programme, stressing the importance of climate-resilient and low-cost technologies for farmers. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Tania Chongtham, Scientist (Horticulture).
A total of 39 farmers, including farm women from different parts of the state, are participating in the programme.
During the training, farmers are being provided with hands-on exposure to improved and high-yielding pulse varieties, climate-resilient production practices, integrated nutrient and pest management; natural farming approaches, cropping system diversification, rice fallow management, and seed production techniques. Experts from ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre and Central Agricultural University, Imphal are delivering lectures on various aspects of pulse production and management.
The programme includes expert lectures, field demonstrations, and interactive sessions aimed at strengthening farmers’ capacity and promoting the adoption of improved technologies.
The initiative is expected to significantly contribute towards enhancing pulse production, improving soil health, reducing cost of cultivation, and strengthening food and nutritional security among smallholder farmers in North East India.
