A Farmer–Scientist Interaction Programme on farmers' registration in the Kisan Sarathi Mobile App, the effect of El Niño on crop production, and weed management in dry direct-seeded rice (DSR) was successfully organised under the Farmer FIRST Programme at Padariya village of Kundam Block, Jabalpur district on 14.07.2026. A total of 43 farmers, including 17 Mahila Kisans, from the adopted villages of Khukkham, Ranipur and Padariya actively participated in the programme. The programme aimed to enhance farmers' awareness of digital agricultural services, contingency measures, and scientific weed management in dry DSR.
During the programme, Dr. Deepak Pawar, Scientist and Co-PI, guided the participating farmers on the installation and registration process of the Kisan Sarathi Mobile App. He explained the various features of the application and highlighted its usefulness in obtaining timely agricultural advisories, weather-based recommendations, and expert guidance. He also sensitised the farmers about the Opinion Poll for the CSR Conclave and encouraged them to actively participate through the mobile application. Dr. P. K. Mukherjee, PI, delivered an informative lecture on the likely impact of El Niño on crop production, particularly its influence on monsoon rainfall, moisture stress, crop establishment, and productivity. He elaborated on suitable contingency measures for mitigating the adverse effects of El Niño in dry DSR, including moisture conservation practices, balanced nutrient management, efficient water use, and adoption of appropriate weed management strategies.
An interactive session on weeds and scientific weed management in dry DSR was also conducted, during which farmers discussed the weed problems prevailing in their fields and received practical recommendations from the scientists. The participants were advised on the proper selection, timing, and method of application of herbicides for effective and economical weed control under dry DSR conditions. As a part of the programme, high-potency, new-generation broad-spectrum herbicides were distributed to the participating adopted farmers as critical inputs to facilitate timely and effective weed management in dry DSR. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Lead Farmer.