On June 14, 2024, the Vaikunth Mehta National Institute of Co-operative Management (VAMNICOM) in partnership with the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), and other key agricultural bodies, conducted a Pre-Kharif Sensitization Training Programme. The event took place at Dr. Appasaheb Pawar Agricultural Polytechnic College in Konghara, Phandarkawda, Yavatmal, Maharashtra.
The training session aimed to educate members of the Sahakari Kharadhi Vikri Samiti Ltd., local farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), input dealers, and other stakeholders involved in the agribusiness and cooperative sectors. The focus was on advanced input management, technological interventions, and effective resource management strategies to enhance sustainable agricultural practices.
Distinguished guests at the event included Shri Suhas Gade, Deputy Collector of Kelapur (Pandharkawda), Shri Pramod Lahale, District Agriculture Officer of Yavatmal, and several other notable figures from the cooperative and agricultural sectors. These experts shared insights on various subjects crucial for the upcoming Kharif season.
Dr. Suresh Nemade, a senior scientist from KVK Yavatmal, discussed nutrient management strategies for Kharif crops, emphasizing the use of drone technology for foliar application of fertilizers like IFFCO Sagarika. This approach is particularly advantageous in Yavatmal’s cotton belt, where the average farm size is about 15 acres, and labor shortages are a recurrent issue.
Rahul Chavan, another KVK expert, explained the technical and economic aspects of deploying drones for crop management, which can significantly reduce the time and labor required for traditional methods. Additionally, Mr. Sanjeev Mishra, Divisional Manager of IFFCO BAZAR, elaborated on the benefits of IFFCO Sagarika for crop productivity and soil health, showcasing how such innovations can transform agricultural practices.
The event also highlighted the cooperative sector’s role in technology adoption and building social infrastructure that allows the youth to engage and propagate technological advancements through cooperative efforts.
With over 300 cooperative members, PACS representatives, and farmers in attendance, the program proved to be a fruitful initiative, offering extensive training and insights on crop management for the forthcoming agricultural season. This initiative is a part of ongoing efforts to bolster agricultural productivity and sustainability through cooperative enterprises and modern technology in Maharashtra and across India.
The organizers, including VAMNICOM, ICAR, and local agricultural departments, expressed their gratitude towards all contributors and attendees who made the event successful, underscoring the importance of grassroots-level training in transforming India’s agricultural landscape.
