Describe the irrigation, soil moisture conservation and weeding practices followed in East/North-Eastern India.

In East/North-Eastern India, which includes states like Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and parts of West Bengal and Bihar, agriculture practices, including sericulture, are influenced by the region's diverse topography, climate, and soil conditions. Here are the irrigation, soil moisture conservation, and weeding practices commonly followed in this region:

1. Irrigation Practices:
In East/North-Eastern India, irrigation is crucial for agriculture, including mulberry cultivation for sericulture, due to the region's seasonal rainfall patterns. Common irrigation practices include:

• Canal Irrigation: Many areas benefit from canal irrigation systems that divert water from rivers or reservoirs to agricultural fields. Canals help distribute water efficiently across large areas of farmland.

• Tank Irrigation: Small-scale irrigation tanks or ponds are used to store rainwater and surface runoff for irrigation during dry periods. These tanks also serve as fishery resources in some regions.

• Well Irrigation: Groundwater extracted from shallow or deep tube wells is used for irrigation in areas with access to groundwater resources. Well irrigation is vital during dry seasons or periods of insufficient rainfall.

2. Soil Moisture Conservation Practices:
Conservation of soil moisture is essential for sustaining crop growth, particularly in regions prone to erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells. Common practices for soil moisture conservation include:

• Mulching: Application of organic mulches such as crop residues, grass, or leaves on the soil surface helps reduce evaporation and conserve soil moisture. Mulching also improves soil fertility and suppresses weed growth.

• Contour Farming: Sloping lands are cultivated along the contour lines to minimize soil erosion and promote water retention. Contour bunds or terraces are constructed to slow down water runoff and allow infiltration.

• Crop Rotation and Intercropping: Growing a diverse range of crops in rotation or together (intercropping) helps maintain soil health and moisture levels. Deep-rooted crops like legumes can improve soil structure and enhance moisture retention.

• Water-saving Irrigation Techniques: Farmers adopt water-saving irrigation methods such as drip irrigation and sprinkler systems to minimize water wastage and optimize water use efficiency.

3. Weeding Practices:
Effective weed management is essential for maintaining healthy mulberry plants and maximizing silk production. Weeding practices in East/North-Eastern India include:

• Manual Weeding: Hand weeding using traditional tools like sickles or hoes is commonly practiced to remove weeds from mulberry fields. Regular manual weeding helps control weed growth and competition for nutrients.

• Mechanical Weeding: Some farmers use mechanical weeders or tractor-mounted implements for large-scale weeding operations, especially in flat and accessible areas.

• Herbicide Application: Selective herbicides are used judiciously to control stubborn weeds without harming mulberry plants. Herbicide application is done following recommended dosage and safety precautions.

• Mulching: Mulching not only conserves soil moisture but also suppresses weed growth by blocking sunlight and inhibiting weed seed germination.

In conclusion, irrigation, soil moisture conservation, and weeding practices in East/North-Eastern India are tailored to the region's agro-climatic conditions and farming traditions. Sustainable water management, soil conservation techniques, and integrated weed management contribute to the resilience and productivity of agriculture, including sericulture, in this region. Agricultural extension services and research institutions play a vital role in promoting best practices and supporting farmers in adopting efficient and environmentally friendly farming methods.