ICAR-NIBSM distributes agricultural machinery to farmers in Raipur

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Biological Stress Management (ICAR-NIBSM) has distributed 140 battery-operated power sprayers and three solar panel sets to farmers and women farmers in Raipur. This initiative, conducted under the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP), aims to promote agricultural mechanization, reduce physical labor, and encourage sustainable farming practices.

The distribution program involved 160 participants from the villages of Murra, Bethia, Devgaon, Adsen, and Beltukari. During the event, ICAR-NIBSM Director Dr. P. K. Rai emphasized the importance of rainwater harvesting and conservation during the monsoon to support Rabi crop production. He also highlighted crop diversification as a vital strategy for increasing farmer income and managing agricultural risks.

Additionally, Joint Director and Program Coordinator Dr. Pankaj Sharma advised farmers to monitor paddy crops closely. He noted that at the 40-50 day stage, crops are currently facing threats from pests such as the yellow stem borer and leaf folder, as well as bacterial leaf blight. Farmers were urged to identify these issues early and utilize integrated pest management techniques to avoid excessive pesticide use.