Sirsa farmers trained in scientific guar cultivation

To help farmers improve guar cultivation during the upcoming Kharif season, a special training camp was organised for the first time at Jasania village in Sirsa. The camp was conducted under the guidance of Dr Madan Singh, Agriculture Officer of Nathusari Chopta, with support from guar crop expert Dr BD Yadav. The aim of the session was to educate farmers about the correct sowing time and methods to prevent root rot, a widespread issue in the region.

During the training, Dr B D Yadav highlighted that guar should never be sown in May. Early sowing results in excessive plant height, making the crop prone to lodging and reducing bean production. In such cases, lower pods often dry up and shrink, adversely impacting the overall yield. He advised that guar should only be sown in irrigated areas after mid-June, when canal water becomes available. This timing is considered optimal for healthy crop development and improved yield.

Addressing the issue of root rot disease, Dr Yadav explained that it originates in the soil and affects the plant’s root system. Infected roots turn black and lose the ability to absorb nutrients, leading to weak and stunted growth. He emphasised that spraying on standing crops is ineffective in controlling the disease. Instead, he recommended seed treatment as the only reliable solution. Farmers were advised to treat their seeds with three gram of carbendazim (Bavistin) per kilogram of seed, allowing it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This low-cost treatment, priced at just Rs 15, can control the disease by up to 95 percent.

Farmers were also encouraged to adopt improved guar seed varieties such as HG 365, HG 563 and HG 2-20, and follow proper sowing practices. Dr Madan Singh further advised farmers to test their soil and water before planting and to embrace modern agricultural techniques over traditional methods. Around 60 farmers attended the camp and were given free samples of the seed treatment chemical and gloves, provided by Hindustan Gum and Chemicals, Bhiwani.

The camp was made successful with the support of progressive farmer Dharampal Patwari. A special question-and-answer session was also held, during which five farmers were honoured. Several other local farmers and agricultural officers also participated in the event.

Haryana Tribune