Lab-to-Land Programme makes an impact in Mussoorie Hills.
Tyagi P. C., Agarwal M. C., Joshi B. P., Mishra A. S., Tomar V. P. S., Kalyan Singh, Sharda V. N.
Author Affiliation: Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Dehra Dun, UP, India.
Indian Farming 38 : 7-9
Abstract : A brief report of the programme as operated by small and marginal farmers in the Mussoorie Hills [Uttar Pradesh], an area of rainfed agriculture and monocropping. Under the programme emphasis was laid on non-monetary inputs such as proper sowing across the slope, plant density, intercropping, weed control, plant protection, proper use of nitrogen fertilizer, use of high yielding crop varieties (which were supplied), and provision for runoff with proper soil and water conservation practices. Data are tabulated showing increased yields of upland and irrigated rice, maize and wheat with these practices. Farmers were provided with seedlings of multipurpose tree species for food, fodder and wood: bhimal (Grewia oppositifolia), bamboo, Bauhinia and Eucalyptus all survived reasonably successfully (30-68%). Selected fruit tree crops (lemon, mango, peach, pear, plum and walnut) were also grown, both for stabilizing steep slopes (and protecting against degradation and erosion) and for providing income; survival of these species was 33-50%. Mechanical measures adopted for soil and water conservation are also described and included the construction of earthen shoulder bunds, check dams, dry stone risers, and renovation of existing risers and field channels; financial assistance was provided for these measures. The communication strategy for transfer of the lab-to-land technology included site contacts, training and counselling, discussion with farmers, distribution of popular extension literature, field days, farmers' fairs, film shows and research station visits. The practices adopted have also spread to neighbouring villages.