GUWAHATI, Sept 11: Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University (KKHSOU) organized a daylong training programme on “Strengthening Soyabean Cultivation in Assam for Nutritional, Feed and Food Security” on September 9 at Nalbari, Gohpur. It is one of the villages adopted by KKHSOU.
The event was a joint initiative of the Discipline of Agricultural Science, Guru Prasad Das School of Interdisciplinary and Vocational Studies, Mother Teresa Social Welfare Mission, Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University (KKHSOU), in collaboration with the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Soybean, Assam Agricultural University, and the Chaiduar College Study Centre, KKHSOU.
“The primary objective of the programme was to ensure food and nutritional security in the region by promoting soyabean cultivation and its utilization as an important contribution to food and feed security,” a statement said.
The technical session of the training programme was conducted by Dinku Bora, subject matter specialist from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sonitpur. He delivered a comprehensive presentation covering various aspects of soyabean cultivation, including land preparation, seed treatment, sowing methods, nutrient and pest management, harvesting techniques, and post-harvest handling. He also highlighted the importance of soyabean as a protein-rich crop with high nutritional value in improving household nutrition and supporting livestock feed.
“The program also stressed creating awareness about the nutritional benefits of soyabean among participants from Nalbari and nearby areas. The participants actively engaged in the interactive session and shared their experiences in the field. They also discussed the challenges of expanding soyabean as a potential cash crop and its integration into local farming practices,” the statement said.
To strengthen soyabean cultivation in the region, AICRP on Soybean, Assam Agricultural University, extended support by providing necessary inputs. As part of the programme, the participating farmers were distributed high-quality soyabean seeds and other inputs, which would help them to practically implement the improved practices learned during the training.
The programme concluded with farmers voicing their eagerness to take up soyabean cultivation on a larger scale. It was emphasized that successful soyabean cultivation requires institutional support, research collaborations, and linkages with industries to ensure better market opportunities.
The programme was attended by farmers, students, academicians, and officials from different organizations. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Phanindra Kumar Deuri, Registrar of Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University, while Dr. Rupjyoti Dutta, Research Scientist, Regional Research Station, AAU, Gossaigaon, and Dr. Sanjay Konwar, Head of Agricultural Science, Guru Prasad Das School of Interdisciplinary and Vocational Studies, KKHSOU were the co-coordinators of the said event.