As part of the "Parthenium Awareness Week" observed from 16-22 August 2024, ICAR KVK Nimbudera conducted a series of awareness programs aimed at educating farmers, students, and the general public about the harmful effects of the weed.
During the week, an awareness program was held at KVK Nimbudera, where in Dr. V. Damodaran, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK, Nimbudera, addressed the participants about the adverse effects of Parthenium on crops, livestock, and human health, emphasizing that this invasive weed poses a significant threat to biodiversity. The weed replaces native plant species, leading to a shortage of fodder for animals and affecting pollinators like butterflies and honeybees.
In addition, a field-based awareness program was conducted with the active participation of farmers, farm women, and youth. Chaired by Rakesh Dawar, SMS Agronomy, the event provided a comprehensive overview of the history, life cycle, and distribution of the weed. Mr. Yatharth Sharma, SMS (Home Science) demonstrated various control methods, stressing the importance of eradicating the weed before it reaches the flowering stage. The farmers of Nimbudera took an oath to raise awareness about its dangers among fellow farmers, school children, and the general public.
Further extending the awareness campaign, a program was organized at Zilla Parishad Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Basantipur. Mr. Subam Debroy (SMS Aquaculture) educated students about the losses caused by Parthenium in field and vegetable crops. He provided insights into control measures that can be implemented to manage this invasive weed.
To amplify the message, a rally was also organized in the Basantipur Gram Panchayat, involving farmers, and local residents. The rally aimed to create mass awareness about the ill effects of Parthenium, encouraging the community to actively participate in its eradication. The entire programme was organized under the overall guidance of Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair with significant participation from various stakeholders. . About 30 farmers and farm women and 80 students from Zilla Parishad Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Basantipur participated and benefited from the training.