Vibrant Participation Marks VKSA Programme in Border Village of Dangra Dangri, West Bengal

29 May 2025, Uttar Dinajpur

As part of the ongoing Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, the border village of Dangra Dangri in Chopra block of Uttar Dinajpur district, West Bengal, witnessed an enthusiastic response from local farming communities.

Organized by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in collaboration with ICAR institutes and government departments, the event aimed at empowering farmers through region-specific scientific interventions, traditional knowledge, and access to government schemes.

The programme focused on crop planning for the upcoming monsoon season, introducing farmers to improved varieties of rice and jute suited to the local agro-climatic conditions. Experts shared updated kharif advisories covering spacing, nutrient management, and timely sowing to enhance productivity and mitigate climate-related risks. Vegetable cultivation—especially cucurbits such as bottle gourd, ridge gourd, and cucumber were also promoted as a fast-income option for smallholders.

In his address, Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR- Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, highlighted the transformation of Dangra Dangri from a remote hamlet into a symbol of community-driven agricultural progress. He lauded the village’s alignment with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 through active participation in VKSA-2025.

The programme also promoted soil health awareness through demonstrations on the use of Leaf Colour Charts (LCC) for nitrogen management in paddy and emphasized the importance of soil testing and interpretation of soil health cards. Farmers were sensitized about government schemes such as PM-KISAN, KCC, PMFBY, and PM-KUSUM, with guidance provided on accessing credit, insurance, income support, and solar energy solutions.

Adding to the vibrancy of the event was an exhibition of handmade jute products by local women artisans and self-help groups, underscoring the potential of secondary agriculture and rural entrepreneurship, especially for women and youth.

With over 280 farmers in attendance, including a significant number of women and young participants, the event underscored the Abhiyan’s goal of inclusive, last-mile delivery of knowledge and resources.

(Source: ICAR- Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)