A day-long training programme on the cultivation of azolla to farmers was organised by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Vamban near here on Friday. A large number of farmers underwent the training and interacted with the scientists on cultivation techniques.
K. Vairavan, Professor and Head of KVK, inaugurating the training programme, spoke on the importance of the azolla as an integral part in the nutrition management. He said that using modern cultivation techniques a large quantity of azolla could be produced at available space in the fields.
He said that azolla was ideally suited as manure for paddy crop.
Low-cost strategy
Using the low-cost strategy, it could be used as an alternative fodder for livestock. Azolla is rich in protein by about 25 to 30 per cent, catering to the growth of the livestock and preventing animal diseases. It enhances both the quality and quantity of milk. He appealed to the livestock owners, particularly dairy farmers, to cultivate the crop as a backyard crop.
Noorjahan, Professor, explained the crop protection strategy and its uses.
D. Nakkeeran, manager of the farm, conducted a demonstration at the azolla fields to the farmers.
