SSTL, FQCL AND BOQCL INAUGURATED AT DIMAPUR  

Static Soil Testing Laboratory (SSTL), Fertilizer Quality Control Laboratory (FQCL) & Bio Organic Quality Control Laboratory (BOQCL) was inaugurated by Minister, Agriculture and Cooperation, G. Kaito Aye on 24th January 2022 at District Soil Conservation Office, Dimapur.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Aye stated that SSTL is an important and basic requirement and with this facility, it will be of great benefit to our farming community. Stressing on the importance of technological intervention in soil, he said a fertile soil can make a major difference in the quality and yield in agricultural and horticultural products. Aye also urged the Department to be more active, responsible and to take care of the assets.

Minister, Soil & Water Conservation, Geology & Mining and NSMDC, V. Kashiho Sangtam speaking at the inaugural programme, highlighted the activities and projects undertaken by the Department of Soil & Water Conservation. He emphasized on the need for everyone to be aware of the importance of soil health and encouraged everyone to avail the facilities. He also urged the Agri and Allied Departments to give awareness to the farming community. 

Director, Soil & Water Conservation, K. Zhekheto Awomi, presenting the technical report, said that the Department has till date established 14 Static Soil Laboratories covering all districts including one at S&WC Training & Research Center, Sechu and Seyochung. He informed that the one at S&WC Training & Research Center was inaugurated by Chief Minister of Nagaland on 7th December 2021 and STLs at the District Headquarters will be inaugurated this Republic Day by the respective chief guests. He also informed that Block Level Mini Soil Testing Laboratories for all blocks are ready and will be flagged off by Chief Secretary after the Republic Day function at Secretariat Plaza, Kohima. The Department is also partnering with IMD in setting up Automatic Weather Stations in Mokochung, Zunheboto, Kohima, Kiphire, Longleng, Mon and Wokha, he added. 

Earlier, the programme was invoked by Associate Pastor, DABA, Alemwati Longkumer. Welcome address was delivered by Commissioner & Secretary, Soil & Water Conservation and Geology & Mining, K. Libanthung Lotha IAS who also chaired the programme. Vote of thanks was delivered by Project Director, Soil & Water Conservation, S. K. Hekshe.

                                                                                                (Sebu Lam, IA Dimapur)