PRESS RELEASE FROM KVK NAMTHANG

KVK South Sikkim Hosts Workshop on Jute Agrotextile Mulch and Valedictory Program for Handloom Weaving Training
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) South Sikkim, in collaboration with the ICAR-National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology (NINFET) Kolkata, organized a comprehensive workshop on Jute Agrotextile Mulch for Soil and Water Conservation and a Valedictory Program for the Handloom Weaving Skill Training. Present in the programme were Dr. D.B. Shakyawar Director ICAR-NINFET Kolkata, Dr. Sanjoy Debnath Principal Scientist & Head (Mechanical Processing Division) ICAR-NINFET Kolkata, Dr. Er. H. Baite Scientist (Transfer of Technology) ICAR-NINFET Kolkata, Ms. Choki Sherpa HDO Namthang, farmers from Passi and Bermiok Tokal FPO and trainees of the Skill training Programme.
The first session of the event focused on Jute Agrotextile Mulch, an eco-friendly alternative to plastic mulch. This sustainable farming solution, made from natural jute fibers, is gaining popularity for its ability to improve soil health, enhance water retention, and support environmentally responsible agricultural practices.
The Director of ICAR-NINFET Kolkata Dr. D.B. Shakyawar expressed his appreciation on the works of the KVK for empowering the farmers with benefiting technologies and also highlighted on the different types of natural fibres.
Dr. Sanjoy Debnath, Principal Scientist & Head of the Mechanical Processing Division at ICAR-NINFET, presented detailed insights on the benefits and applications of jute mulch in farming. Dr. Er. H. Baite, Scientist (Transfer of Technology) at ICAR-NINFET, also gave a comprehensive overview of the various initiatives undertaken by the Institute to promote natural fiber technologies.
KVK South Sikkim’s Senior Scientist and Head, Shri. I.P. Shivakoti, welcomed the distinguished guests and gave a brief overview of the program’s objectives, highlighting KVK’s commitment to supporting local farmers with innovative and sustainable technologies.
The workshop aimed at promoting the adoption of jute mulch among farmers in South Sikkim as part of ongoing efforts to preserve the environment and improve agricultural practices in the region.
The second session celebrated the conclusion of a three-month Skill Training Program on Handloom Weaving, organized by KVK South Sikkim and funded by ICAR-NINFET Kolkata.
The program, which ran from 16th August to 16th November, involved 10 participants who received hands-on training in traditional handloom weaving techniques.
Dr. Chewang Norbu Bhutia, Course Coordinator and Subject Matter Specialist (Animal Science) at KVK South Sikkim, provided an overview of the skill program, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional crafts while empowering local artisans.
The valedictory session included a certification ceremony recognizing the hard work and achievements of the trainees.
The program was well-received by the participants, who expressed appreciation for the opportunity to enhance their skills and improve their livelihood.
As part of the event, a practical demonstration on the use of jute mulch was conducted at the KVK centre, showcasing its effectiveness in soil and water conservation.
Following the workshop, 30 farmers from Passi and Bermiok Tokal FPOs were provided with jute mulch inputs to help them implement the technology in their fields.
The event concluded with a visit to the handloom unit, where the dignitaries interacted with the trainees and observed the weaving process firsthand.