Pioneer News Service
Dumka
With a view to introducing high-value crop diversification in the district, the Dumka district administration has laid special emphasis on promoting makhana (fox nut) cultivation. Presiding over the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Governing Board meeting on Friday, Deputy Commissioner Abhijit Sinha instructed officials to facilitate interstate training programmes at specialized agricultural institutes so local farmers can acquire the technical know-how needed to successfully cultivate makhana.
The meeting, which thoroughly reviewed ongoing agricultural initiatives under ATMA and the National Food Security Mission (NFSM), placed strong focus on adopting progressive agronomic practices. Alongside makhana farming, the Deputy Commissioner underscored the promotion of intercropping to ensure risk mitigation and optimize land productivity. He insisted that government schemes must move beyond paper targets and focus squarely on delivering direct, measurable economic gains to farmers through the adoption of modern technology and innovative practices.
To bolster staple crop output, Sinha directed officials to leverage media and information channels for the widespread dissemination of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) technique among paddy growers. In addition, the administration examined the feasibility of commercial coconut farming in the district and outlined plans to train cultivators in grafting techniques, particularly for high-yield grafted tomato and brinjal paired with drip irrigation and plastic mulching.
The administration also resolved to identify and reward innovative and progressive farmers to inspire wider adoption of advanced farming models. The meeting was attended by the Project Director ATMA-cum-District Agriculture Officer, scientists from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Zonal Research Station, officials from allied agriculture departments, board members, and local farmers.
