Padu Ebeng/Assam: College of Horticulture & Forestry (CHF) and Digital India Corporation joined forces to boost agricultural practices in Arunachal Pradesh's Upper Siang district. A training program on 'Good Agricultural Practices on Assam Lemon' was held, with 53 farmers from Ebeng village actively participating. The aim was to empower farmers and enhance their knowledge.

Under the guidance of CHF Dean Prof. B.N. Hazarika, the farmers were provided with valuable insights into the scientific production technology of Assam Lemon, reported  Arunacal 24.

The training covered various aspects including modern nursery management, planting methods, spacing, intercropping, and integrated disease and pest management. Prof. Hazarika encouraged the farmers to consider starting horticulture-based enterprises and forming Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs).

He highlighted the favorable agro-climatic conditions in the Upper Siang district, which are conducive to the proper growth and high yield of Assam lemon.

The overarching objective of the M4 agri project, as outlined by Prof. Hazarika, is to equip farmers with timely and accurate information, empowering them to make informed decisions. Through mobile-based agro-advisory services offered in the local dialect, the project aims to improve farmers' livelihoods.

Dr. Lakshmi Dhar Hatai, the Head of Social Science at CHF, briefed the farmers on the project's key focus areas and objectives, emphasizing that the Arik-Abik-Lunom region would be covered under the initiative. The M4 agri project is currently being implemented in nine districts of Arunachal Pradesh.

Dr. Hatai also enlightened the farmers about the economic feasibility and potential returns associated with Assam Lemon production. He highlighted the significance of lemon nursery seedlings and the efficient marketing system for fresh lemon and value-added products. The aim is to enhance farmers' income and ensure sustainable livelihoods for small and marginal farmers.

During the training program, Agro Associate Vijay Saroh, along with the Arik-Abik-Lunom project Field Manager Ojing Tayeng and Field Coordinator Nung Tayeng, provided hands-on training to the farmers on using the M4-agri and UMANG apps.

These digital tools play a crucial role in delivering agricultural information and advisory services to farmers.

The training program on 'Good Agricultural Practices on Assam Lemon' conducted by CHF in collaboration with the Digital India Corporation has equipped farmers with the necessary knowledge and tools to maximize the productivity of their Assam Lemon crops.

It is expected that this initiative will not only improve agricultural practices but also contribute to the economic growth and prosperity of the farming community in the Upper Siang district.