Shopian | : Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC), Srinagar, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Zone Zainapora, organised a Farmers Field School (FFS) programme Wednesday at village Reshipora, block Zainapora of Shopian.
The programme aimed to educate and empower farmers with sustainable agricultural practices through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
Assistant Plant Protection Officer addressed the gathering and briefed the farmers about the objectives and structure of the FFS programme. He emphasized the importance of adopting IPM practices to reduce the dependency on chemical pesticides, thereby ensuring environmental safety, improved crop health, and better yield quality.
He highlighted practical and scientific approaches to pest management, encouraging farmers to rely on eco-friendly techniques, biological control methods, and crop monitoring as key components of the IPM strategy. He also stressed the need for farmer participation and experiential learning, which form the foundation of the FFS model.
Horticulture Development Officer, Zainapora reiterated the importance of creating awareness about the judicious and safer use of pesticides, while promoting cultural, mechanical, and biological methods of pest control. He encouraged farmers to adopt the practices discussed for long-term agricultural sustainability.
The event was well-attended by local farmers, officials, and field staff, and marked a significant step towards strengthening farmer education and sustainable horticultural development in the region.
