SRINAGAR: The Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC), Srinagar, in collaboration with the State Agriculture Department, Block Harwan, organized a Farm School-cum-Awareness Campaign for farmers at Village Wanihama Payeen, Harwan, Srinagar, today.
On the occasion, the State Agriculture Department, Srinagar, also conducted a Farmersâ Field School in the village, during which several farmers were provided with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) kits to promote the adoption of safe, scientific, and eco-friendly pest management practices.
Dr. Haroon Rashid Hakla, APPO (PP), sensitized the farmers about various pest-management issues and the serious consequences of using spurious and counterfeit pesticides, which can adversely affect both crops and human health. He also briefed the farmers about the National Pest Surveillance System, emphasizing the importance of correctly identifying the specific pest or disease affecting their crops and using only those pesticides recommended under the CIB&RC-approved list.
Dr. Mehnaz Kaith, AEO Harwan, delivered an informative lecture highlighting the importance and relevance of such awareness campaigns for farmers in the present-day agricultural scenario. She elaborated on various methods, principles, and practical aspects of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable pest-control measures.
Abir Shankhari, APPO (WS), demonstrated the different toxicity levels of pesticides and sensitized farmers about their harmful effects on human health. He also emphasized the importance of following all necessary safety precautions before, during, and after pesticide application to ensure the safe and judicious use of pesticides.
Bilal Ahmad Wani, AEA Harwan, advised farmers to remain vigilant while purchasing pesticides. He stressed the importance of verifying the QR code, batch number, manufacturer details, and poison/toxicity level on pesticide containers and urged farmers to purchase pesticides only from Government-authorized pesticide dealers.
The participating farmers appreciated the efforts of the Agriculture Department in organizing such informative and practical awareness programmes. They expressed their desire for more such initiatives in the future to enhance their knowledge and help them address the various challenges faced in crop production and pest management.
