A Farmer–Scientist Interface Meeting was successfully organized on 29.07.2026 at Padariya village of Kundam Block, Jabalpur district, under the Farmer FIRST Programme (FFP) to strengthen farmer–scientist interaction and promote the adoption of improved crop production technologies. The programme witnessed the active participation of 41 farmers, including 14 Mahila Kisans, from the adopted villages of Ranipur, Khukkham, and Padariya. The meeting primarily focused on scientific weed management in rice and maize. Scientists held detailed discussions on the effective use of the herbicides that had earlier been supplied to farmers as critical inputs under the programme. Farmers were sensitized to the importance of timely weed management, the identification of major weed species, appropriate herbicide selection, and the weed spectrum controlled by different herbicides. The interactive session enhanced farmers' understanding of integrated weed management practices for improving crop productivity and profitability.
During the interaction, a few farmers reported the first-time occurrence of Rottboellia cochinchinensis (Itchgrass), an emerging invasive weed, in their fields. Scientists emphasized the need for regular field surveillance and advised farmers to uproot and destroy the weed plants before flowering and seed set to prevent their rapid spread and establishment in the region. Farmers were also encouraged to continuously monitor their fields and adopt timely management measures to minimize future infestations.
Dr. Deepak Pawar and Dr. Dasari Sreekanth, Co-PIs, interacted extensively with the participants and briefed them on the upcoming programme activities. They informed the farmers about the proposed distribution of fruit saplings, vegetable kits, and Kadaknath chicks, with special emphasis on promoting livelihood opportunities and nutritional security among Mahila Kisans. The programme concluded with an interactive feedback session, during which farmers expressed their experience for the technical guidance and forthcoming interventions under the Farmer FIRST Programme. At the end the Lead Farmer proposed the vote of thanks.