Introduction

On 7th November 2010, Swabhiman Samiti, in collaboration with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), organized the Meet the Expert Program in villages of Bhujouli Buzurg, Bhedi Jungle, and Kuneli Patti. Similarly, on 8th November 2010, the program was conducted in Ekdangi, Madar Bindwaliya, and Kheman Chapra in Kushinagar district, Uttar Pradesh. The primary objective was to address farmers’ concerns and provide expert guidance on modern and sustainable farming practices.

Program Details

  1. Venues:
    • 7th November: Bhujouli Buzurg, Bhedi Jungle, Kuneli Patti
    • 8th November: Ekdangi, Madar Bindwaliya, Kheman Chapra
  2. Chief Guest:
    • Agricultural Expert: Shri Shushil Kumar Singh
  3. Participants:
    • Members of farmers’ clubs from Bhujouli Buzurg, Uddho Chapra, Bhedi Jungle, Naraku Chapra, Kuneli Patti, Chatur Chapra, Ekdangi, Gedahiya Basantpur, Pipariya, Madar Bindwaliya, Kheman Chapra, and Ekdanga.
    • Representatives from Swabhiman Samiti and Musahar Vikas Initiative.
  4. Program Opening:
    • The program began with a prayer (Is Vandana) at each venue, followed by introductions from participating farmers.

Key Issues Raised by Farmers

  1. Unavailability of Fertilizers and Seeds:
    • Farmers across all venues identified the lack of timely access to fertilizers and seeds as the most pressing issue.
    • It was suggested that this issue should be resolved before sowing begins to address subsequent challenges effectively.
  2. Crop-Specific Problems:
    • Brinjal: Stem borer pest infestation.
    • Chili: Leaf curling disease.
    • Cauliflower: Plant rot issues.
    • Sugarcane: Mathmuda disease.
    • Paddy: Blast disease.
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Expert Guidance and Solutions

Shri Shushil Kumar Singh provided valuable insights into sustainable farming practices, disease management, and pest control:

  1. Seed Treatment:
    • Explained the benefits of seed treatment in preventing diseases.
    • Demonstrated techniques for preparing seeds before sowing to ensure healthy germination.
  2. Bio-Farming and Organic Pesticides:
    • Highlighted the use of cow urine, curd, tulsi leaves, neem leaves, oil cakes, and jaggery to prepare organic pesticides.
    • Demonstrated how to use these mixtures for effective pest control.
  3. Soil and Crop Management:
    • Explained soil treatment methods and the benefits of using compost and green manure.
    • Discussed integrated pest management (IPM) techniques.
    • Shared irrigation and fertilizer management practices for improved crop health.
  4. Disease Prevention:
    • Offered comprehensive guidance on managing crop diseases through traditional and modern techniques.
    • Emphasized the importance of plant sanitation and nursery management.

Swabhiman Samiti’s Commitment

Swabhiman Samiti Secretary, Shri Vinod Kumar, assured the farmers that:

  1. Farmer clubs would be federated and registered by the end of December to establish coordination with various agencies for the availability of fertilizers and seeds.
  2. Efforts would be made to ensure timely delivery of essential agricultural inputs.

Attendance and Participation

  • Key Representatives:
    • Swabhiman Samiti: Vinod Prajapati, Vijay Verma, Jagdish, and Sandeep.
    • Musahar Vikas Initiative: Secretary Shri Ajay Vishwakarma.
  • Farmers’ Clubs:
    • Farmers from Bhujouli Buzurg, Uddho Chapra, Bhedi Jungle, Naraku Chapra, Kuneli Patti, Chatur Chapra, Ekdangi, Gedahiya Basantpur, Pipariya, Madar Bindwaliya, Kheman Chapra, and Ekdanga actively participated.

Conclusion

The Meet the Expert Program provided farmers with actionable insights into sustainable and effective farming practices. By addressing issues such as the unavailability of seeds and fertilizers and offering solutions for crop diseases, the program empowered farmers with the knowledge to improve productivity.

The initiative by Swabhiman Samiti and NABARD highlighted the importance of community collaboration, expert guidance, and timely intervention in fostering sustainable agricultural development in Kushinagar district.

Acknowledgment

Special thanks to NABARD for their support and to all participants and organizers who contributed to the success of the program.