Agartala, February 20 (TIWN): With an aim to enhance resilience of Indian agriculture to climate change and climate vulnerability through strategic research and technology demonstration, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Divyodaya of Chebri in West Tripura has been implementing National Initiative on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA); a network project of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) since 2011 at North Pulinpur ADC village of Khowai district since 2011.

According to a source of KVK, the project was formally launched on February 02, 2011. The project consists of four components- Technology Demonstration, Strategic Research, Capacity Building and Sponsored/Competitive Grants. The project was sanctioned by ICAR vide on 12th January, 2011, with a total outlay of Rs. 350 crore for 2010-11 (Rs. 200 crore) and 2011-12 (Rs. 150 crore) of XI Plan. 

The main objectives of the project are to improve the pliability of Indian agriculture covering crops, livestock and fisheries to climatic variability and climate change through development and application of improved production and risk management technologies, to demonstrate site specific technology packages on farmers’ fields for adapting to current climate risks, to enhance the capacity of scientists and other stakeholders in climate resilient agricultural research and its application, said the source.

The output of the project is selection of promising crop genotypes and livestock breeds with greater tolerance to climatic stress; existing best bet practices for climate resilience demonstrated in 100 vulnerable districts, infrastructure at key research institutes for climatic change research strengthened; adequately trained scientific man power to take up climate change research in the country and empowered farmers to cope with climate variability with the outcome to enhanced resilience of agricultural production in vulnerable regions of the country.

Major thrust area for the development of village is identified as- water scarcity especially in the hillock areas, deforestation and loss of soil, unavailability of irrigation facility in the entire village, absence of perennial streams and rivers, lack of awareness among farmers regarding new improved crop varieties, lack of awareness among farmers regarding new improved agricultural technologies, lack of integrated farming approach, shortening of Jhum cycle 2-3 years as a result of greater intensity or pressure on land for cultivation with the increased of population.

Climate variability for the selected village: Based on the climate variability including water scarcity, erratic rainfall and drought like situation; KVK, West Tripura undertaken the following interventions: