Demonstration and training on IPM-FFS under NMEO-Oilseeds and IPM (RKVY) 2024-25 conducted at Lampong Sheanghah and Goching Village, Mon.

A comprehensive training and demonstration program on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) was successfully conducted on IPM-FFS under NMEO-Oilseeds (focused on Soybean and Groundnut) and IPM-FFS under RKVY 2024-25 on 3rd June 2025 at Lampong Sheanghah and 4th June 2024 at Goching village, Mon. The program also included monitoring and surveillance activities, along with field visits to assess pest incidence and educate farmers through practical exposure. The session were led by two resource persons, Dr. Watisenla Imsong (Agriculture Inspector) and Miss Arennungla Jamir (Agriculture Inspector), who provided in depth guidance on Integrated Pest Management practices specifically tailored to oilseed crops such as soybean and groundnut. The training aim to equip farmers with sustainable pest control methods, reduce dependency on chemical pesticides, and improve crop productivity through eco-friendly techniques. During the demonstration farmers were trained on pest identification, particularly focusing on major pest affecting soybean and groundnut crops. Various mechanical, biological and cultural control methods were demonstrated, including the use of neem-based biopesticides, trap cropping and the installation of pheromone and sticky traps. The resource person also emphasized the importance of conserving natural enemies like lady beetles, green lace wings, spiders, etc. Field monitoring and surveillance were carried out in nearby crop fields, where live examples of pest infestation and natural predator activity were shown to participants. This hands-on experience helped farmers understand pest dynamics and how timely, informed intervention can reduced crop losses. As, a part of the program, IPM kits were distributed to all participating farmers. These kits included insect nets, biopesticides and other essential IPM inputs. Additionally, knapsack sprayers were also distributed to ensure safe and effective application of biopesticides in the field. These inputs were intended to encourage immediate adoption of IPM practices farmers. The program witnessed active participation from the local farming community. A total of 21 farmers from Lampong Sheanghah and 27 farmers from Goching attended the demonstrations and training sessions. The participants appreciated the practical approach, relevant field examples and the valuable inputs provided. Overall, the training and demonstration activities were successful in raising awareness, enhancing farmer capacity and promoting the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly pest management practices in the farming community.