Umiam, May 26: The ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill (NEH) Region, Umiam, on Monday organised a stakeholder meeting focusing on the “Current Status of Fertilizer Usage in Agriculture and the Strategies to Reduce its Application in Meghalaya.” The programme brought together officials from various Meghalaya government departments, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), input dealers, field extension workers and farmers.
Welcoming the participants, Dr. B.P. Singh, Head of DTAC, said the meeting aimed to assess the existing fertilizer consumption pattern in the state and identify practical strategies to reduce its usage. He noted that minimizing excessive fertilizer application would not only reduce production costs for farmers but also promote sustainable farming practices.
Addressing the gathering, Director of ICAR RC NEH, Dr. G. Kadirvel, stated that although fertilizer consumption in Meghalaya remains comparatively lower than many other states, coordinated efforts are still required to further reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. He stressed the importance of creating awareness among farmers and stakeholders regarding balanced fertilizer application and long-term soil health management.
Director of ATARI, Dr. Mohanty, highlighted the need to promote green manuring as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. He also underlined the potential of bio-input manufacturing and entrepreneurship in addressing the growing concerns surrounding fertilizer dependency.
Meanwhile, the Dean of CPGS-CAU emphasized the importance of balanced fertilization and called for better planning in fertilizer supply to ensure farmers receive inputs in proper proportions. He also pointed out that under-fertilization can negatively impact crop productivity and suggested the use of alternative organic nutrient sources.
During the discussions, stakeholders reviewed crop-wise and seasonal fertilizer usage patterns, future nutrient requirements and the need for systematic documentation. Participants also explored alternatives such as biofertilizers, green manure, vermicompost, organic manure from waste and traditional bio-formulations including Beejamrutha and Jeevamrutha to improve soil health and reduce chemical fertilizer usage.
The meeting further stressed the importance of strengthening district-level biofertilizer production systems and preparing short-term and long-term strategies for sustainable agricultural development in Meghalaya. Officials said the programme served as an important platform for collaboration among stakeholders to promote balanced fertilizer use and environmentally sustainable farming practices across the state.
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