Training Program on Climate Smart Agriculture

On 29th June 2025, Mukti conducted a Smart Agriculture Training Programme at Jharmatiali village, located in the scenic foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. The programme engaged around 400 farmers, with special focus on members of Dooars Ratna FPO, Chengmari FPO, and other NABARD-supported and partner-backed FPOs operating in the region.

Nestled in Lataguri Gram Panchayat of Kranti Block, Jharmatiali is home to around 2,500 farming families, many of whom are smallholder farmers from marginalized socio-economic backgrounds. Despite the region’s ecological richness and agricultural heritage, local farmers continued to face persistent challenges—shrinking landholdings, soil degradation, erratic climate patterns, pest outbreaks, and poor access to markets. These issues underscored the need for an integrated, climate-resilient, and inclusive approach to agriculture.

The day-long training, which was supported by NABARD, featured a mix of interactive and participatory sessions:

• Inaugural Session: The programme began with a formal inauguration attended by representatives from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), experts from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), and local dignitaries.
• Technical Training: Participants took part in hands-on demonstrations and practical sessions on sustainable farming, water management, integrated pest management, and organic practices.
• Scientist-FPO Interaction: A dedicated platform enabled farmers to engage in direct dialogue with agricultural scientists and extension officers.
• Experience Sharing: Farmers heard inspiring stories and insights from successful FPOs and local farmer-leaders.
• Closing Session: The day concluded with a summary of key learnings, participant feedback, and a roadmap for follow-up support and institutional collaboration.

This training programme formed part of Mukti’s broader mission to empower rural communities, revitalize sustainable agriculture, and strengthen grassroots institutions such as FPOs to confront the challenges of climate change and rural distress. Through such efforts, Mukti aims to support a transition toward climate-smart, economically resilient, and inclusive agriculture in West Bengal’s vulnerable farming zones.