Udaipur: A one-day training program for tribal farmers on nematode management was successfully organized at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Banswara, under the joint aegis of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Nematode Management operating at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur.

The objective of the program was to provide scientific knowledge to farmers from tribal areas on the identification, prevention, and integrated management of nematode-related diseases, enabling them to enhance the productivity and quality of their crops.

The program commenced with the welcome of experts and an outline of the training schedule. Progressive tribal farmers from the region participated enthusiastically. Scientists explained in simple and practical language the life cycle of nematodes, the reasons for their spread, and their adverse effects on crops.

Dr. Hemendra Sharma, Project In-charge of the Nematode Management Project, stated in his address that nematodes are microscopic organisms that live in soil and plant roots, causing serious damage to crops. He explained that nematode infestation leads to the formation of root galls, hampers nutrient absorption, and significantly reduces crop yield. Emphasizing the concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Dr. Sharma recommended a balanced use of biological, mechanical, and chemical control methods.

He particularly highlighted the issue of nematode infestation in vegetable crops grown under polyhouse conditions, noting that continuous cultivation of the same crop in protected structures can increase nematode incidence. As preventive measures, he advised adopting crop rotation, soil solarization, the use of bio-control agents, and selecting healthy planting material.

Nematode expert Dr. Chandra Prakash Nama elaborated on effective management strategies for fruit crops. He explained that nematodes adversely affect fruit trees such as pomegranate, guava, citrus, and others by damaging their roots, thereby reducing growth and fruit-bearing capacity. He emphasized the importance of regular soil testing for early detection and appropriate management.

Dr. Nama also informed farmers about the benefits of using organic manure, neem cake, Trichoderma, and other bio-agents, recommending chemical control measures only as a last resort. He stressed that by adopting scientific practices, farmers can achieve better yields at lower costs.

Dr. B. S. Bhati, In-charge of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Banswara, educated farmers about the key symptoms of nematode infestation. He explained that stunted plant growth, yellowing of leaves, and the presence of root galls are major warning signs. He encouraged farmers to regularly monitor their fields and seek timely scientific advice. The program was effectively conducted by Dr. G. L. Kothari. The interactive session allowed farmers to raise queries, which were addressed by the experts, making the program highly participatory and beneficial.

A total of 35 progressive tribal farmers, including seven women farmers, actively participated in the training. The participants appreciated the scientific training and expressed their desire for more such programs in the future. At the conclusion of the program, automatic sprayers and improved vegetable seeds were distributed free of cost to all participating farmers, enabling them to practically implement the knowledge gained during the training.

University scientists expressed confidence that such training programs will play a significant role in increasing farmers’ income, promoting sustainable agriculture, and disseminating modern agricultural technologies in tribal regions.

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