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From tradition to technology: Meghalaya’s farmers embrace modern agriculture through VKSA

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Shillong, June 3: A quiet revolution is taking root in Meghalaya’s farmlands — one field, one farmer, and one hopeful heart at a time.

In a significant stride towards modernising agriculture, over 7,000 farmers across Meghalaya have actively participated in the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA), a nationwide initiative aimed at transforming India’s agricultural landscape.

On the fourth day of the 15-day campaign, 7,278 farmers from 63 villages across 13 blocks in Meghalaya engaged in workshops and training sessions designed to enhance sustainable and profitable farming practices.

Launched on May 29, 2025, VKSA is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The campaign aims to reach approximately 1.5 crore farmers across over 700 districts, promoting modern farming technologies, government schemes, natural farming, and soil health.

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In Meghalaya, the campaign has been marked by hands-on demonstrations and knowledge-sharing sessions. Farmers in regions like Ri Bhoi and the Garo Hills have been introduced to innovative practices such as the use of drones for efficient farming and the application of nano-fertilisers. Traditional farming methods have also been acknowledged for their role in climate-resilient agriculture.

In villages like Nongthymmai and Kyrdem in Ri Bhoi district, farmers and farm women sat under makeshift tents listening attentively to agricultural scientists explaining how to protect their crops from pests, or how to use natural fertilisers to revive tired soils. In the Garo Hills, young villagers eagerly learned how drones can be used for efficient farming, while older generations were reassured that traditional practices still have a place in climate-resilient agriculture.

“We never thought technology like nano-fertilisers or drones would reach our village,” said Larembha Momin, a farmer from Anchenggre in South Garo Hills. “But now I know that even here, we can use new ways to grow better crops.”

What made the campaign remarkable wasn’t just the range of topics — from organic farming to piggery health management, from mushroom cultivation to integrated farming systems — but how deeply personal it became. In Shkentalang village, an elderly farmer who had never heard of soil health cards was given one, and with it, a tailored plan for crop selection. In Jaintia Hills, young women were introduced to agro-business incubation centres, planting the seeds for future entrepreneurship.

Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh emphasised the importance of the campaign, urging farmers to capitalise on the opportunity to refine their agricultural skills. She highlighted the need for policies tailored to Meghalaya’s unique agro-climatic conditions and encouraged the adoption of organic farming practices.

Beyond training, the campaign has facilitated the distribution of high-quality seeds for rice, vegetables, and millets ahead of the Kharif season. Farmers have also been educated about various government schemes, including PM-KISAN, Kisan Credit Card, and the State Organic Mission, many of which they were previously unaware of.

The VKSA campaign in Meghalaya is not just about introducing new technologies; it’s about empowering farmers with knowledge and resources to ensure sustainable and prosperous agricultural practices. As the campaign progresses, it continues to sow the seeds of change, fostering a future where agriculture in Meghalaya thrives through innovation and resilience.

Also Read: Celesta 25: PIMC’s founding batch leads first-ever college fest to resounding success

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