FTTF

Zero tillage farming and micro irrigation technology transfer program is supported by NABARD and has been an integral part of the collective farming as practiced by farmers of drought prone Purulia in West Bengal. The program objective is adoption of wise-use of water resources utilizing micro-irrigation techniques, water harvesting and local storage. The effectiveness of the technology can help reduce the usage of chemical fertilizers and the interactive training session carries out awareness on the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers and over gazing, that leads to loss of organic matter, disruption of soil microbes, death of earth worms, soil erosion, washing away of top soil etc. Zero till, has minimal soil disturbance and top composting plant residues adds nutrients to soil. Subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) uses permanently or temporarily buried dripper line or drip. It is becoming popular for row crop irrigation, especially in areas where water supplies are limited or recycled water is used for irrigation. It was observed that there were active and enthusiastic participation from the farmers as they understood the technology usefulness.

'Zero-Till' and micro-irrigation cum- organic fertilizer dozing through a training and demonstration model for farmers of Purulia, who are practicing agro-farming in a drought prone area, this training has enhanced and nourished the sustainable agricultural practices and has direct implications over livelihood, health and natural resource conservation support systems of the poor communities and develop resilience to climate change. Currently, SAFE could successfully form 52 Farmers Club, leading to the formation of Rarbhum Farmers Federation, which has emerged as a self sustained group to lead the sustainable agriculture practices in Purulia. SAFE, remains a catalytic organization to extend technology knowledge and key skill support to the farmers.