In a concerted effort to promote environmental sustainability and climate-resilient agriculture, the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra Churachandpur, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre successfully organized and celebrated Van Mahotsav 2026 on July 14, 2026. The event was hosted at Lower Kom Village in the Churachandpur district under the strategic leadership and guidance of Dr. Manoj Kumar Pandey, Senior Scientist and Head (SSH), ICAR-KVK Churachandpur. The initiative aligned with the national mandate of enhancing green cover while simultaneously addressing the urgent need for capacity building among grassroots agricultural communities regarding global climate disruptions. The program witnessed the active and enthusiastic participation of 36 progressive farmers from the region, working in tandem with the entire scientific and administrative staff of KVK Churachandpur. Central to the day’s proceedings was a mass afforestation drive, during which the attendees collaboratively planted ten diverse species of saplings within the premises of the local church compound. The strategic selection of a community-centric location like the church compound was intended to ensure the long-term care, protection, and survival of the saplings. Furthermore, the inclusion of multiple plant species was emphasized to promote local biodiversity, improve soil conservation, and foster a collective sense of ecological stewardship among the villagers.

Beyond the physical plantation activities, the event served as a critical platform for agricultural extension and environmental education. Recognizing the increasing vulnerability of the agricultural sector to erratic weather patterns, the KVK Churachandpur team conducted a comprehensive sensitization session on the El Niño weather phenomenon. The scientific staff briefed the participating farmers on the current climate scenario in the region, detailing how El Niño typically induces delayed monsoons, temperature fluctuations, and uneven rainfall distribution. By highlighting these impending meteorological challenges, the session aimed to equip the farming community with the vital knowledge required to transition toward climate-smart agricultural practices. The farmers were educated on the importance of adopting contingency crop planning, water conservation techniques, and resilient farming methodologies to mitigate potential crop losses and secure their livelihoods against climatic uncertainties. The successful execution of this dual-purpose program underscores ICAR-KVK Churachandpur’s ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and the practical needs of the local farming community.

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