Communication gap behind poor participation in CAEPHT trainings

ORGANIC FARMING WILL BEAR FRUIT IN THE LONG RUN, SAYS CAU DIRECTORGANGTOK, 25 Nov: “Communication gap could be the reason behind poor participation by extension functionaries and local farmers during training programmes conducted by the College of Agricultural Engineering and Post Harvest Technology [CAEPHT], Ranipool .” This opinion was laid to mediapersons in a press conference held here at Tadong by Director [Extension], Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Dr. M. Premjit Singh today.

Dr. Singh, who is in the State to attend the 4-day long training programme on capacity building of Extension Functionaries on promotion of improved agricultural equipment and technologies in NEH Region from 22-25 November here at CAEPHT, Ranipool, was speaking on the subject of just two participants from the state attending the training even though the organizer was hoping better participation from local extension functionaries. There are a total of 11 participants attending the training,
On the feasibility of organic farming in Sikkim, Dr. Singh said that in the long run it will be profitable for Sikkim to opt for organic farming as high value organic crops will fetch double income in the export market. He claimed that CAEPHT is doing its level best by laying emphasis on developing modern technologies and equipments to produce high value agricultural products to make organic farming successful in Sikkim.
Adding to this, Prof. PK Srivastava, Dean, CAEPHT claimed that flower packaging technology developed by his college is gaining appreciation from foreign flower markets.
On the poor participation of local people in the programmes organized by his College, the Dean said, “This could be because of the time factor but we are always available to extend our support if someone misses such opportunities.”
 When asked whether it will be affordable for farmers to adopt improved agricultural equipments promoted by his college, Prof. Srivastava said, “If demand rises, the supply can be routed through government and other agenices.”
On the decline in cardamom production, the CAU Director opined that the reason could not only be disease-centric but could be because of climate change.
“Holistic approach by a team of scientists can come up with a better understanding and solution for this problem,” he argued.
About his University, Dr. Singh informed that CAU was adjudged the second best agricultural university in the country and this year 26 students including 2 from CAEPHT got Junior Reaserch Fellowships in various reputed institutions all over the country.
The conference was also addressed by Prof. and Head, Deptt. of Farm Power & Machinery, CAEPHT, SK Rautaray.