Two-day Workshop cum Training for Agriculture Extension Officers concluded on 18 September in Delhi. Mr Dhondup Tsering, Deputy Secretary & Ms Dolma Tsering of the Department of Health (DoH) anchored the program. The program focused on control strategies for Fall Army Worm(FAW), an emerging pest reaching epidemic proportions and impacting farmer’s livelihoods.
Session Domain experts were Dr Suby S.B, Ag- Entomology & Dr S.L Jat, Agronomist from Indian Institute of Maize Research. Dr.Sain Das, former Director ICAR-Maize and Dr Bhagirath Choudhary, Director, South Asia Biotechnology Centre New Delhi. The first two dealt with the science aspect and the latter two focused on practical steps and implementation.
The demonstration session of Harvesto soil testing mini-lab that was introduced into the Tibetan system by Director Harsh Dahiyathe participants found the session exciting and enriching. Dr Sain Das reviewed the Kollegal farmers’ QPM corn field trails and discussed market development strategies for this world food prize-winning technology.
They also shared their personal experience with FAW control and QPM over the years. DOH in other sessions reviewed current TSRR projects, issues, accounting & reporting processes and plans for the future. Mr Kishore Rao (Agri Strategy Consultant), Nyima Dorjee (Tibet Fund) and Mr Loten (SARD) were also present. The meeting was intensive, interactive and the participants updated their technical knowledge, discussed future plans and strategies as well as ongoing issues and processes.
DOH is thankful to USAID for making this program, which will benefit the Tibetan farmers.
