DIMAPUR: The potential of seven newly released rice varieties to enhance productivity and promote crop intensification in Nagaland was showcased during a Field Day organised by the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kohima, and the State Department of Agriculture at Chiechama Village, Chiephobozou Block.
The field demonstration highlighted the promising performance of the varieties under farmers’ field conditions. Among them, Hornbill Gold 308 recorded a grain yield of 5.5 tonnes per hectare under natural farming conditions. Other varieties-Patkai Pearl 131, Sekrenyi Lha 138, Tokhvu Tssok 171, Moatsu Tsuk 189, Ahuna Khi 395 and Aoleang Tahwan 295-also exhibited encouraging performance compared with locally cultivated varieties, indicating a yield advantage of 35-45%.
Scientists noted that the short duration, high yield potential and preferred grain quality of these varieties could improve cropping intensity and farm profitability. Their early maturity would allow timely establishment of rabi crops such as potato, onion, toria and field pea, thereby diversifying and intensifying cropping systems.
Addressing farmers, Dr. Harendra Verma, Scientist, ICAR Nagaland Centre, highlighted the yield potential, grain quality and disease resistance of the varieties. He stressed that performance could be enhanced through timely transplanting of young seedlings (18-22 days), adoption of crop management practices, use of organic manures, biofertilizers and micronutrients, and inclusion of pulses in the cropping system.
Officials from the Department of Agriculture, Chiephobozou Block, and 31 farmers from Chiechama Village observed the demonstration and appreciated the potential of the varieties. Dr. Martina Shitiri, ACTO, KVK Kohima, encouraged seed multiplication and sharing among farmers to facilitate wider dissemination.
The programme provided a platform for direct interaction among scientists, officials and farmers, enabling assessment of varietal performance and promoting awareness of improved rice technologies.
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