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World Soil Day 2023 observed

 Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 05 2023: ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Imphal West, Chandel, Churachandpur, Tamenglong, Ukhrul and AICRP on STCR, Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal jointly observed World Soil Day 2023 at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat under the theme "Soil and water, a source of life".

The event was accompanied by a valuable farmer-scientist interaction programme.

The observance ceremony was attended by Laishram Boby Devi, Up-Adhyaksha, Zilla Parishad, Imphal West; Dr Ramgopal Laha, Head, Regional Centre, ICAR Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat and Dr S Basanta Singh, Director of Instruction, Central Agricultural University, Imphal as the presidium members.

Speaking as the chief guest, Laishram Boby Devi highlighted the need to maintain soil health as all living beings have an intrinsic bond with the soil.

In order to prevent "soil death", she suggested mass soil testing by the Government and decreased use of chemical fertilizers.

Stating that only 10 out of 100 farmers test the soil where they grow their crops, she also urged them to use fertilizers proportionately to preserve soil health.

Instead of widespread use of chemical fertilizers, Dr Ramgopal Laha called for adoption of natural farming techniques.

Farmers can take advantage of this farming technique as organic products fetch a much higher price, he added.

He also stressed on the need to spread awareness about World Soil Day through social media.

On the other hand, Dr S Basanta Singh shared that World Soil Day is observed on December 5 every year.

Ninety-five out of a hundred living beings depend on soil and water for their survival.

Water and soil also bear a deep interconnectedness, thus, World Soil Day 2023 has been observed under the appropriate theme of "Soil and water, a source of life", he said.

He also pointed out the connection between soil health and human health adding that essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, mineral, vitamin etc are obtained from the soil.

The event was also attended by Dr I Meghachandra Singh, Principal Scientist (Seed Science & Technology) ICAR Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat and Dr T Basanta Singh, Scientist, Soil Science, ICAR Manipur Centre.

In addition, health cards were distributed to around forty farmers selected from five districts.

Prizes were also distributed for a painting competition held previously.

Separately, the College of Agriculture, Central Agriculture University, Iroisemba, Imphal also observed World Soil Day 2023 today on the theme "Soil and Water, a source of life".

The programme was graced by Professor Indira Sarangthem, Dean, COA, CAU, Imphal.

On the occasion, she spoke about the importance of sustaining soil health, sequestration of soil carbon, judicious use of fertilizers, adoption of more nature based solutions and preservation of water.

In addition, she encouraged recycling of crop residue and jhum cultivation in the hill areas to prevent soil erosion.

The programme was chaired by Professor L Nabachandra Singh, Department of Agronomy; Professor U Chaoba Singh, Department of Horticulture and Professor N Brajendra Singh, Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, COA, CAU Imphal.

Faculty, scientists, staff and students of the College also attended the programme.

As a part of World Soil Day 2023, a poster competition was also conducted for the PG and PhD students of the College and prizes were distributed to the winners.