Nagpur: Indian Institute of Management Nagpur (IIMN) has been committed to social transformation which reflected in its initiative to organize a farmer-scientist interaction session in the remote villages of Assam recently. Community members of Salmora, Banoria Chapori, and Kulamua in the river island of remote Majuli in Assam were invited to share their concerns with regard to climate change and its impact of traditional farming practices.
An interactive session was conducted for the villagers with a motive to bridge the gap between the villages and research, advisory and training organizations such as Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Jorhat. The session focused on creating awareness and training for the community members on aspects such as good agricultural practices and livestock rearing.
Prof. Magesh Nagarajan, assistant professor, IIMN, had invited experts from KVK Jorhat to guide over 40 participants. The farmer-scientist interaction session was led by Dr. Sanjoy Borthakur, head of KVK Jorhat, and his team, including Mr. Sameeron Bhattacharjya, specialist in agronomy, and Dr Prabhat Baruah, specialist in Animal Sciences.
Representatives from each village presented an overview of the agricultural scenario and raised their concerns. The KVK team addressed their concerns including suggestions for alternative crops.
Dr. Bhimaraya Metri, Director of IIMN, said, “This workshop is a reflection of the institute’s commitment to impactful research, corporate social responsibility and supporting policymakers to enable social transformation in India and beyond.”
Dr. Nabajyoti Deka, postdoctoral researcher in agricultural economics, IIMN, distributed an Assamese handbook on the topic of organic farm practices to all the participants. An NGO, Ayang Trust provided ensured grassroot access for the workshop.