‘Unchecked human activities lead to soil degradation’

December 7, 2023 18 Views No Comment

Kohima, December 7 (MExN): The Directorate of Soil & Water Conservation, Nagaland celebrated the World Soil Day on theme ‘soil and water, a source of life’ at the SDO (SC) office, Chiephobozou under Kohima district. The programme was attended by around 80 people including women farmers and SHG members from nearby villages, stated a press release issued by the Director, Soil & Water Conservation, Kohima.

The key theme speaker Rongsenlemzung, Joint Director said, “Our lives, our food, and our future depend on the well-being of this precious resource. However, unchecked human activities often lead to soil degradation.” He said that deforestation, improper farming practices, and pollution threaten the very foundation of our existence. “The importance of soil testing is to optimize the production of crops,” he added.

The Additional Director & HOD, L Chubaonen deliberated on the integrated management of soil and water resources for sustainable agriculture. He also mentioned that the food availability relies on soils: nutritious and good quality food and animal fodder can only be produced if our soils are healthy living soils.

Alemyapang Longchar, NCS, ADC, Chiephobozou in his short speech appreciated the department for the various initiatives taken up within the Sub-Division and active participation of the SDO (SC) office in all the developmental activities. He encouraged the farmers to co-operate with the department in various trainings and activities and avail the benefits for their economic upliftment.

Keneingulie Miario, on behalf of the farmers expressed gratitude to the department for taking active interest in their farming activities.

The programme was chaired by Litemo Murry, Joint Director, invocation by Z Casavi, SCA and vote of thanks was proposed by Renthunglo Tungoe SDO (SC), Chiephobozou.

It was followed by demonstration on soil testing carried out in the Mobile Soil Testing Laboratory to create awareness on the importance of soil testing and soil health management.

Earlier in the morning, the celebration was commemorated at the official residence of Imkong Imchen, Advisor, Soil & Water Conservation and IPR in the presence of the Commissioner & Secretary, Soil & Water Conservation, Joint secretary and Directorate officers.