Scorpions Are Everywhere in Phoenix, Maybe even at your house
Get To Know Scorpions
DID YOU KNOW THAT SCORPIONS ARE NOT INSECTS? .... Scorpions are annoying little pests. But... They are not insects. You may be saying to yourself right now, "What?" but no they are not insects. Scorpions are actually considered to be Arachnids. Arachnids are eight legged creatures like Spiders, Ticks and Scorpions.
...and Not all scorpions are poisonous! Some Scorpions contain a lethal sting, most scorpians only have stings that are as potent as a honey bee sting. But stings can be deadly. If you happen to have an allergic reaction to a sting it can very well be fatal. Don't be fooled by even the smallest Scorpion. And while not all are deadly, the Arizona Bark Scorpion is the most poisonous in the United States. And despite not running a high risk of death, the stripped bark scorpion sting is painful. So we still advise finding a scorpion control solution that is right for you.
+ Scorpions have four pairs of legs. They also have pincers that look like little lobster claws. + Scorpions come in many sizes and colors, but most of the ones you'll see in Arizona are usually pale gold or tan in color.
Although some scorpions in other parts of the world can be six inches long or longer, most of the adult scorpions in metro Phoenix are probably less than 3 inches long. They have a venom bulb (the telson) at the end of a long tail and a stinger at the end. There are about 90 species of scorpions in the United States and an estimated 1,500 species worldwide. There are more than 40 species in Arizona. + Scorpions hide under rocks or debris. They live in crawl spaces. + They are active and feed at night. The scorpions that are native to Arizona typically eat spiders, insects and each other, if they are hungry enough. + They hide during the day. Check your shoes and clothes before putting them on if you live in an area where there are likely to be scorpions. + If you live in an area where there is a lot of construction, you may be more likely to find scorpions inside because their outdoor habitat has been disturbed. + They can live for months on just water. Because they are looking for water, you may find them in or under sinks or tubs. + Scorpions can live to be over 6 years old. + Scorpions sting. But you knew that, or you wouldn't be reading this! A scorpion sting may result in some pain, itching, swelling, or tenderness of the area. If you are stung by a scorpion, here's what you do . If you are stung by any scorpion, including the venomous Arizona Bark Scorpion, here are some immediate actions you should take: + Wash the area of the scorpion sting with soap and water. + Apply a cool compress on the area of the scorpion sting. Ice (wrapped in a washcloth or other suitable covering) may be applied to the sting location for 10 minutes. Remove compress for 10 minutes and repeat as necessary. + If stung on a limb (arm or leg) elevate the limb to heart level. + Call the Banner Poison Control Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. If you develop symptoms such as numbness or tingling of extremities or face, blurry vision, or muscle twitching, roving eye movements, go to the nearest emergency room. Young children and older people who are stung by a scorpion should be taken to the emergency room immediately. + Keep your tetanus shots and boosters current. + The great majority of scorpion stings occur on the hands and feet. Watch where you step with bare feet, and watch where you reach with your hands.
In the western U.S. only one species of scorpion venom is considered very dangerous to humans. Yup, we have it right here in Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Gilbert, Mesa and most valley cities that surround Phoenix Arizona. It is called the Arizona Bark Scorpion. It is straw colored or opaque and usually less than 2 inches long. The Arizona Bark Scorpion is most dangerous if the person stung has an allergic reaction. There are other bark scorpions, and other types of scorpions that are even more common in Phoenix homes than the Arizona bark scorpion. Most people assume they are seeing the most dangerous scorpion when they see any scorpion. I suppose it's safest to make that assumption, since most people don't want to get close enough to distinguish the various species from one another!
Bad news: every year many people in the world die from scorpion stings. Good news: hardly anyone ever dies in Arizona, because antivenin is available for severe cases. According to the University of Arizona "in the past 20 years there have been no reported fatalities in the U.S. due to scorpion stings." Certain people may be allergic to scorpion venom just like some people are allergic to bee stings (or strawberries or peanuts...) although according to the same source no cases of that type of allergic reaction has been reported in Arizona.
Here are some common sense tips that will help control scorpions and how you can help avoid scorpions. + Close or caulk door openings, screen openings and window cracks so scorpions can't get into the house. + Dust and vacuum in corners and normally undisturbed places where scorpions hide. + Eliminate the scorpion's prey (crickets, spiders, and other insects) by using common pesticides. + Common pesticides don't work well on scorpions. Contact a professional pest control company if considering applying chemicals. + Eliminate outdoor places where scorpions can hide, such as trash piles, rock piles, decaying wood or piles of junk. + Don't walk around the house at night in bare feet. + A professional pest control company like Invader Pest Management can do a "blacklight" inspection to determine if there is a scorpion infestation, since scorpions glow.
About the Author
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History Of Kenya,The People & Tribes And What Attracts Tourists To Tour
Kenya is one of the tourist's destinations in African continent and it is situated in East Africa region and comprises of the five States that form East Africa Community of which it is a member.
Kenya has 8 provinces which through the new constitution progumulated in August 2010 will be turned into Counties.
Things To Know About Kenya
Named after Mount Kenya or Kirinyaga,(meaning ‘The Mountain of Whiteness') ,which lies almost in the centre of the country and marks its highest point, Kenya straddles the equator and covers an area of almost 600,000 square kilometers. Lying on the shores of the Indian Ocean, on the east coast of Africa, Kenya borders Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan, Uganda and Tanzania. Most of the north and northeast of the country is either uninhabited or sparsely habited desert.
Capital City
Nairobi, (taken from Maasai word Nyrobi meaning place of cool waters), and also known as ‘the Green City in the Sun' and ‘the ‘ Safari Capital of the World' ,has an unofficial population of approximately 2.7 million people. It came into being in May 1899 as an artificial settlement created by the European builders of the East Africa railway, located at' Mile 327' from the Coast. Easily the largest city in East Africa, Nairobi is also the youngest, the modern, the highest (at 1700m) and the fastest growing.
Environment Concerns
With one of the highest population growth rates in the world, Kenya requires ever-increasing amounts of agricultural land for crops and firewood for fuel; thus deforestation is a major problem. Some 10 million trees have, however, been planted over the past two decades with the help of private groups and tree nursery programs. Soil erosion and desertification occur in some areas. Increased use of pesticides and fertilizers has led to significant water pollution and water contamination is a serious problem; only about 30 percent of the rural population has access to safe drinking water.
The Landscape
The landscape of Kenya is distinctly divided into two halves; the eastern half slopes gently to the coral-backed seashore, the western portion rises more abruptly through a series of hills and plateaus to the Eastern Rift Valley, known in Kenya as the Central Rift. West of the Rift is a westward-sloping plateau, the lowest part of which is occupied by Lake Victoria. The highest point in the country is the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya (5,199m), the second highest mountain in Africa (and one of the largest freestanding mountains in the world with a base diameter of 200km). The Coastline extends some 536 km from the Tanzanian border in the southeast, to the Somali border in the northeast. The main rivers are the Athi/Galana and the Tana.The major lakes are: Lake Victoria, Turkana, Baringo, Naivasha, Magadi, Jipe, Bogoria, Nakuru and Elementeita.
Climate
Kenya is a range –land country and therefore displays great contrasts in topography and climate: snow-capped peaks give way to deserts, palm fringed beaches to rolling Savannah plains, Alphine highlands to the lunar semi-deserts of the north east. Since the country straddles the equator, the climate remains stable all year. The days are sunny and hot, but the nights can be cool. Broadly speaking January to February is dry; March to May is wet (‘long rains') ; June to September is dry; October to December is wet (short rains') .The Coast is always hot (average centigrade).The average daytime temperature in Nairobi is 21-26 degrees centigrade ,while the temperatures elsewhere depend on altitude. July to August marks the Kenyan winter.
Flora
Kenya's flora is deiverse: along the Coasts are forests containing palm, mangrove, teak, copal and sandalwood trees. Forests of baobab, euphorbia and acacia trees cover the lowlands to an elevation of approximately 915m.Extensive tracts of Savannah (grassland) interspersed with groves of acacia and papyrus, characterize the terrain from 915 to 2,745 meters above sea level. The principal species in the dense rainforest of the eastern and south-eastern mountain slopes are camphor and bamboo.
Fauna
Despite the tremendous losses inflicted by hunting and poaching during the twentieth century, Kenya teems with wildlife. There are 80 major animal species ranging from the ‘Big Five' (Elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, lion and leopard) down to tiny antelopes such as the dik-dik, which is slightly larger than a rabbit. At least endemic species are endangered.
Avifauna
An ornithologist's paradise, Kenya is the finest country in Africa for bird watching; boasting around 1,137 species of birds; and 60 IBAs (Important Bird Areas) .To spot more than 100 bird species in a day is common.
National Parks
Kenya's total wildlife conservation area is 44,359 square kilometers or 7.6% of her total area. The main parks are: Aberdare National Park, Lake Nakuru National park, Meru National Park, Mt Elgon National Park, Mount Kenya National Park, Nairobi National Park, Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park. One of the most popular tourist destinations, The Maasai Mara, is actually designated a national reserve. There are two major marine parks: Mombasa Marine National Park and Malindi/Watamu National Park
World Heritage Sites
Fort Jesus –Fort Jesus, now a museum, became the focal point f the island. In the years between 1631 and 1875, the fort changed hands nine times. In 1631, the townspeople revolted and killed every Portuguese on the island, but the Sultan of Mombasa had no real support and the Portuguese reoccupied Fort Jesus and consolidated their control. The Omanis, who had been steadily gaining strength, took the town and laid siege to the fort from 1696-98.The Santo Antonio de Tanna sank in 1697 while trying to break the siege (and the museum holds numerous relics recovered from the ship).After 33 months Fort Jesus again changed hands, with most of the defenders having died from starvation or disease.
The Gedi Ruins-Gede is an archaeological site that consists of ruins of a 15th century Arab-African settlement. It covers an area of about one square kilometer. An amazing old growth coastal forest covers much of it. As the whole site is fenced off and guarded, the forest is well protected against encroachment and poaching. It provides an ideal refuge for monkeys and other mammals, including the rare golden-rumped elephant shrew, duikers, and bushbucks. The bird life is prolific, resembling the diversity in the nearby Arabuko-Sokoke forest, with several endemic species that cannot be found anywhere else. Encounters with snakes are common, including green and black mambas, forest cobras, and several harmless species. The climate is very hot and humid throughout the year.Luckily; the Indian Ocean is always there for a "cool "bath!
Koobi Fora-Koobi Fora, an archaeological site, is located in East Africa. More specifically, it's on the east side of Lake Turkana .Richard Leakey first excavated Koobi Fora in 1967. At this site, both Australopithecines and early Homo fossils have been found. Richard Leakey uncovered approximately four hundred fossils at the Koobi For a. As a result, the site is known for having the richest and most varied human remains that have been found in the world. Surface prospecting made the first discoveries in the fossil beds at Koobi Fora.This involved locating areas where bones and teeth are exposed as a result of soil erosion. Some of the finds include a complete skeleton, several skulls, and a few dozen lower jaws. Also found were leg and arm fragments and some teeth. Leakey and his archaeological team recovered a fossil hominid, called 1470, which is classified as Homo habilis. This fossil is associated with the stone artifacts also found at the sites. The thousands of tools found were thought to have been used for a variety of purposes. The main purpose, though, was to cut meat off of bones and to break open larger bones to get the marrow inside. This creature, Homo habilis, is believed to have lived 2,000,000 years ago and be of direct ancestor of modern man, Homo sapiens.
Mount Kenya-Mt.Kenya is a dome-shaped central volcano. It is the largest mountain in Kenya .Ten glaciers cover the volcanoes peaks. The original crater on Mt. Kenya was over 20,000ft (6100m) high but has been heavily eroded. Most of this erosion occurred during two periods when glaciers carved much of the top of the volcano. These periods wore down the ring-like plug forming the top of Mt. Kenya .In fact, almost 35% of the volcano has been worn away. Several types of volcano rocks make up the mountain. The Mount Kenya site consists of all the rocks erupted from Mt. Kenya and volcanoes that were built by it. It covers 2700 square miles in 65-mile (105km) diameter circle around the volcano.
Volcanic activity at Mt.Kenya was concentrated in Pleistocene times. Much of this activity took place through the many vents on the slopes of the volcano.
Hells Gate National Park-Hells Gate National Park lies South of Lake Naivasha in Kenya, North West of Nairobi. It is known for its wildlife and for its scenery, including the Fischers Tower and Central Tower columns and Hells Gate Gorge. The national park is also home to three geothermal power stations at Olkaria.Hells Gate National Park covers an area of 68.25 square kilometers and is situated in the environs of Lake Naivasha about 90 kilometers from Nairobi.Thge Park is situated 14 kilometers after the turnoff from the old Nairobi-Naivasha highway. It is characterized by diverse topography and geological scenery. It has historically been an important home for the rare lammergeyer, but it is now thought that the famous pair of birds may not have nested in the park for several years.
The Park is popular due to its close proximity to Nairobi (90 minutes drive) and lowered park fees compared to other National Parks. One is encouraged to hike and cycle in the park. This is a rarity in Kenyan National Parks, and is only made possible due to the lack of dangerous animals such as lions and elephants, though there is a small number of cheetahs and African Buffalo. The park is equipped with 3 basic campsites.
Maasai Mara National Reserve-The Maasai Mara is a large park reserve in south-western Kenya, which is effectively the northern continuation of the Serengeti National Park game reserve in Tanzania. Named for the Maasai people (the tradition inhabitants of the area) and the Mara River, which divides it, it is famous for its exceptional population of game and the annual migration of the wildebeest every July and August, a migration so immense it is called the Great Migration. With an area of 1510 kilometre squared the Maasai Mara is not the largest game park in Kenya, but it is probably the most famous. The entire area of the park is nestled within the enormous Great Rift Valley that extends from the Mediterranean Sea to South Africa. The terrain of the reserve is primarily open grassland, with clusters of the distinctive acacia tree in the southeast region. The western border is the EsoitOlololo Escarpment of the Rift Valley, and wildlife tends to be most concentrated here, as the swampy ground means that access to water is always good and tourist disruption is minimal. The easternmost border is 224 kilometers from Nairobi, and hence it is the eastern regions which are most visited by tourists.
Lamu-Lamu, Kenya's oldest living town was one of the original Swahili settlements along coastal East Africa. The port of Lamu has existed for at least a thousand years. An Arab traveler Abu-al-Mahasini who met a judge from Lamu visiting Mecca in 1441 first attested the town in writing. The town's history is marked by Portuguese invasion beginning in 1506, and later the Omani domination around 1813(the year of the Battle at Shella).The Portuguese invasion was prompted by the nation's successful mission to control trade along the Coast of the Indian Ocean. For considerable time, Portugal had a monopoly in shipping along the East African Coast and imposed export taxes on the pre-existing local channels of commerce .In the 1580s, Lamu led a rebellion against the Portuguese, prompted by Turkish raids. IN 1652, Lamu was assisted by Oman in lifting Portuguese control. Lamus years as an Omani protectorate mark the town's golden age. During this period, Lamu became a centre of poetry, politics, arts and crafts as well as the trade.Lamu town is the largest town on Lamu Island, which in turn is apart of the Lamu Archipelago in Kenya.Lamu town is also the headquarters of Lamu District and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historic Sites
Kenya has over 400 historical sites ranging from prehistoric fossils and petrified forests, to 14th century slave trading settlements, Islamic ruins and 16th century Portuguese Forts.
The Cradle of Mankind (6,500,000 BC- 50,000 BC)
Known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind' Kenyan history dates back to the dawn of time when Homo erectus, Homo habilis and other species of early mankind roamed the area. The first conclusive signs of human prehistory came in the form of fossils, most of which were found by the Leakey family on the shores of Lake Turkana (Koobi Fora) and in the East African Rift Valley.
Early Settlers (50,000 BC -500AD)
From around 50,000 BC onwards, African early human lived as ‘hunter-gatherers,' learning how to make tools, communicate and use fire. From 2000BC onwards, the hunter-gatherers were joined by huge numbers of immigrant communities, who travelled to Kenya from all over the African continent. The earliest distinct migration was of Cushitic –speaking people from Ethiopia, then in the first few centuries AD came the Nilotic-speaking ancestors of the present day Kalenjin peoples, and from the west and south came the Bantu speakers, forebears of today's Kikuyu, Gusii, Akamba and Mijikenda peoples.
The Swahili Coast Develops (500AD-1498)
Arab and Persian migrants started to arrive from 500AD onwards sand the Kenyan coast rapidly developed as a vital trade link between the Mediterranean, Europe, West Africa and the East Indies. Trade rapidly expanded into the African interior, where goods were exchanged for ivory and slaves.
The Arrival of Portuguese Rule (1498-1698)
The Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama landed in Malindi in 1498 and the Portuguese subsequently ruled the cost for two centuries of economic and religious oppression, building Mombasa's Fort Jesus as their military headquarters in 1593.
Omani Domination (1698-1837)
In 1696 the Omani Sultans challenged Portuguese rule and in 1698, Fort Jesus fell. The Swahili coast then came under the rule of Muscat until 1837 when the Omanis were finally defeated.
European Exploration of Kenya (1844-92)
In 1844, two German missionaries, Johann Ludwig Kraft and Johannes Rebmann, became the first Europeans to venture into the Kenyan interior. They were followed by Richard Burton and John Speke; and Dr David Livingstone and Henry Stanley, all of who came to Kenya in search of the source of the Nile. Joseph Thomson broke into new territory in 1882 and he inspired James Hannington, who discovered Lake Bogoria, and Count Samuel Teleki and Ludwig von Hohnel, who discovered Lake Rudolf (now Lake Turkana).
The Partition of East Africa (1856-91)
British interests in East Africa climaxed at the end of the European power struggle known as the ‘Scramble for Africa,' and in 18885 the British government declared Kenya a protectorate and construction began on the Mombasa to Uganda railway, which was dubbed the ‘Lunatic Express' (completed in 1901) .They also introduced a scheme allowing landless aristocrats, middle-class adventures, big-game hunter, ex-servicemen and Afrikaners to settle in the country.
World War 1
By 1916 the Europeans had re-appropriated most of Kenya's farming land and discontent between the settlers and Kenyans began. During World War 1, one in four of the 1,200,000 African porters and soldiers conscripted died; those who returned were deeply influenced by the experience .Political associations began to spring up and by 1921 there were numerous protests and rallies calling for an end to colonial rule.
World War 11
During World War 11 the Kings African Rifles fought bravely in Ethiopia and Burma but returned to Kenya to find that while land was being awarded to British soldiers in recognition of their services, it was not being awarded to African soldiers; this considerably deepened the simmering discontent. Postwar African politics stepped up the pressure for independence with the formation of the Kenya Africa Union, which was headed by Jomo Kenyatta in 1946.
The Mau Mau Rebellion
Rising discontent culminated in the largely Kikuyu-led Mau Mau rebellion against British rule. In 1952 the British government declared a state of emergency and thousands of British troops were sent to Kenya. A fierce guerilla war was fought and thousands of Kenyans were detained in concentration camps. The revolt ended in 1956 with the capture of Dedan Kimathi, Commander in Chief of the Land and Freedom Army.
Independence 1963
By 1960 the British had accepted the need for Kenya independence and preparations for the changeover began. On Madaraka day June 1st 1963, Jomo Kenyatta became Kenya's first prime minister and on December 12th, 1963 Kenya became formally independent.
The Tribes of Kenya
Kalenjin-The rough translation of the word Kalenjin means ‘I tell you.' Believed to have migrated from Sudan nearly 2,000 years age, these people consist of an estimated 3 million in Kenya. Most of these people live in the Great Rift Valley, in Western Kenya .Traditional clothing consisted of animal skins. Either of domesticated animals or wild animals. Heavy brass coils were used as earnings, which stretch the earlobe almost to the shoulder.
Kamba-Also known as Akamba. These are people who live in the semi-arid areas of Eastern Province .They are the fifth largest ethnic group in Kenys.Anthropologists believe that the Kamba are a mixture of several East African people. A large number of them are pastoralists.
Kikuyu. The Kikuyu are of Bantu origin and make up the country's largest tribal group and their heartland surrounds Mt. Kenya. The original Kikuyu are thought to have migrated to the area from the east and northeast from the 16th century onwards. Famously warlike, the Kikuyu overran the lands of the Athi and Gumba tribes, becoming hugely populous in the process. Today, 20% of Kenyans are Kikuyu. The Kikuyu also fiercely resisted the British, spearheading the Mau rebellion in the 1950s that was a major catalyst for the end of British rule. The Kikuyu territory borders that of the Maasai, and intertribal raids on property and cattle were once common. Despite this, intermarriage between the tribes occurred, and there are many cultural similarities between the tribes today. The Kikuyu are the most best politically represented tribe in Kenya due to the influence of Jomo Kenyatta, the first president of Kenya. Initiation rites for both boys and girls are very important ceremonies and consist of ritual circumcision for boys and girls. Circumcision for boys and female genital mutilation for girls (although the latter is slowly becoming less common). Each group of youths of the same age belongs to a riikaan (age-set) and passes through stages of life, and their associated rituals together. Subgroups of the Kikuyu include the Embu, Ndia and Mbeere.
Luo (also called Jaluo and Jolou) are an ethnic group in Kenya, eastern Uganda, and northern Tanzania .They were formerly also known by the no-obsolete classification Nilotic Kavirondo.They are part of a larger kin of Lou peoples who inhabit an area including Southern Sudan, northern and eastern Uganda, western Kenya, and northern Tanzania.
The Luo are the third largest ethnic group (12%) in Kenya, after the Kikuyu (20%) and the Luhya (17%).The Luo and the Kikuyu inherited the bulk of political power in the first years following Kenya's independence in 1963.
The primary Luo live hood is fishing. Outside Louland, the Luo work throughout eastern Africa as tenant fishermen, small-scale farmers, and urban workers. They speak the Dholou language, which belongs to the Western Nilotic branch of the Nilo-Saharan language family spoken by other Luo-speaking peoples such as the Lango, Acholi, Padhola and Alur.
Luhya – The Luhya are of Bantu origin and are made up of 17 groups. They are the Second-largest group after the Kikuyu, but occupy a relatively small area in western Kenya centred on Kakamega, where they settled around the 14th century. Population densities here are incredibly high. In times past, the Luhya were skilled metal workers, forging knives and tools that were traded with other groups, but today most Luhya are agriculturists, farming groundnuts, sesame and maize. Smallholders also grow large amounts of cash crops such as cotton and sugarcane. Many Luhya still have a strong and powerful belief in witchcraft and superstition, although, to the passing travelers, this is rarely obvious. Traditional constume and rituals are becoming less common, due mostly to the pressures of the soaring Luhya population.
Maasai- For many, Maasai are the definitive symbol of ‘tribal' Kenya. With a reputation (often exaggerated) as fierce warriors and a proud demeanour, this tribe of Nilotic origin has largely managed to stay outside the mainstream of development in Kenya and still maintains large cattle herds along the Tanzania border.
The Maasai first migrated to central Kenya from current-day-Sudan, but in the late 19th century they were decimated by famine and disease and their cattle herds were routed by render pest. The British gazette the Maaasai Mara National Reserve in the early 1960s, displacing the Maasai, and they slowly continued to annex more and more Maasai land. Resettlement programs have met with limited success as the Maasai scorn agriculture and land ownership. There is strong taboo against ‘piercing' the soil and the dead are traditionally left to be consumed by wild animals. Maasai women are famous for their vast plate-like bed necklaces, while men typically wear a red checked shuka (Maasai blanket) and carry a distinctive ball-ended club. Blood and milk is the mainstay of the Maasai diet, supplemented by a drink called mursik, made from milk fermented with cow's urine and ashes, which is shown to lower cholesterol. At around the age of 14, males become el-moran (warriors) and build a small livestock camp (manyatta) after their circumcision ceremony, where they live alone for up to eight years. Before returning to the village to marry.Morans traditionally dyes their hair red with ochre and fat. Female genital mutilation is common among the Maasai, despite the best efforts of various human rights groups. Tourism provides an income either through being guides and camp guards (askaris) ,selling everyday items (gourds,necklaces,clubs and spears) ,dancing or simply posing for photographs. However, the benefits are not widespread .In recent years, many Maasai have moved to the cities or coastal resorts working for hotels and restaurants.
Rendille-The Rendille, who are of Cushitic origin, are pastoralists who live in small nomadic communities in the rocky Kaisut Desert in Kenya's northeast. They have strong economic kinship links with the Samburu and rely heavily on camels for many of their daily needs, including food, milk, clothing, trade and transport. The camels are bled by opening a vein in the neck with a blunt arrow or knife. The blood is then drunk on its own or mixed with milk. Rendille society is strongly bound by family ties, and these centre around monogamous couples. Mothers have a high status and the eldest son inherits the family wealth. It is dishonorable for a Rendille to refuse a loan, so even the poorest Rendille often has claims to at least a few camels and goats.
Samburu- Closely related to the Maasai, and speaking the same language, the Samburu occupy arid areas directly north of Mt. Kenya. It seems that when the Maasai migrated to the area from Sudan, some headed east and became the Samburu. As with the Rendille, Samburu warriors often paste their hair with red ochre to create a visor to shield their eyes from the sun. Age is an important factor in assigning social status and a man passes through various stages before becoming a powerful elder in his 30s. Samburu families live in a group of huts made of branched, mud and dung, surrounded by a fence made of thorn bushes. Livestock, which are kept inside the fence perimeter at night, are used for their milk rather than for meat.
Swahili-Although the people along the coast do not have a common heritage, they do have a linguistic link-Kiswahili (commonly referred to as Swahili), a Bantu-based language that evolved as a means of communication between Africans and the Arabs, Persians and Portuguese who colonized the East Africa coast. The word Swahili is a derivative of the Arabic word for Coast is Sahel. The cultural origins of the Swahili come from intermarriage between the Arabs and Persians with African slaves from 7th century onwards. The Swahili were to become one of the principal slaving forces in Africa. Almost all Swahili practice Islam, although it usually takes a more liberal form than that practiced in the Middle East. Swahili subgroups include Bajun, Siyu, Pate, Mvita, Fundi, Shela, Ozi, Vumba and Amu (residents of Lamu).
Turkana-Turkana are Kenya's true desert tribe in Kenya. The Turkana are one of Kenya's more colourful (and warlike) people. Originally from Karamanjong in northeastern Uganda, the Turkana number around 250,000, living in the virtual desert country of Kenya's northwest. Like the Samburu and the Maasai (with whom they are linguistically linked), the Turkana are primarily cattle herders, although, recently fishing on the waters of Lake Turkana and small-scale farming is on the increase. The Turkana are one of the few tribes to have voluntarily given up the practice of circumcision.
Asians in Kenya- There has been a major influx of the Asian community including the Hindus, Sikh, Muslims, Chinese and even Filipino. There are approximately 100,000 Asians living in urban areas of Kenya which include Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu.Initially, Asians accompanied the British in order to construct the Kenya-Uganda railway. Subsequently the railway brought Indians engaged in trade from the coastal cities into the interior. In the national language Swahili the term'Wahindi' is used to describe the Indian community, which directly means Indians.
European Settlers in Kenya.There is a prominent presence of European Settlers here in Kenya. The appropriate Swahili term is ‘WAZUNGU'which directly translated means White. The Wazungu group in Kenya consists of the descendants from British Settlers during the colonial era, the various expatriates that live and work in Kenya, and Kenyan citizens. They have contributed to the Kenyan socioeconomic and environmental infrastructure in numerous ways including conservation plans and projects, educational development and other professional activities.
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anthropological and socioeconomic studies of agricultural pratices of uri,baramullah,kashmir
ANTHROPOLOGICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC STUDIES ON AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN URI TEHSIL OF BARAMULAAH DISTRIC
Prof ghulam mohyuddin wani conceived and developed the concept note which was executed through the following composite team of experts and NGoS
S. No.
Name
Designation
Mr. Abdul Majid Tantray
Asstt. Prof.Extension (DEE)
Dr. Raihana
Asstt. Prof.(Agronomy,DEE)
Dr.Harinder Singh
Asstt.Prof.(Agronomy,DEE)
Dr. D.Ram
Asstt. Prof.(Soils at DEE)
Mrs. Nasreen Jahan
Asstt. Prof.(Home Science,DEE)
Mrs. Farahnaz Rasool
Asstt.Prof.(Plant Pathology,DEE).
Miss.Rafiya Munshi
SMS (Home Science,DEE)
Mrs. Beenish Shakeel
SMS (Home Science,DEE)
Mr. Mushtaq ahamad
Photographer(DEE)
Dr. Sheikh Muzaffar
Prog,Coordinator KVKBaramulla
Dr.S.R.Singh
Asstt. Prof.(Pomology)
Dr. Qazi Altaf Hussain
Asstt. Prof. FMAP
Dr. Kousar Parveen
Asstt. Prof.(Olericulture)
Dr. M. A. Chatoo
Asstt. Prof. (Olericulture)
Dr. Tariq Ahmed Shah
Asstt. Prof. (Plant Pathology)
Dr. Khurshid Ahmad
Assitt. Prof. (Plant Pathology)
Mr.Muzaffar Hussain Dar
SDAO Uri
Mr. Mohd. Qasim
SMS, Uri
Mr. Manzoor Ahamad
AEO Uri
Mr. M. Latief Khan
AEO, Uri
Mrs. Tasneem Kouser
AEO, Chandenwari
Mr. Jatinderjit Singh
Agric. Assitt. Boniyar
Mr. Rafiq Ahamad
Deptt. of Fisheries
F.S.Fisheries
Mr. Manzoor Ahmed Peer
HDO, Uri
Dr. Anwar Hussain
VAS, Uri
Miss. Sudbeer Kaur
LA, Uri
Mr. Assadullah Aziz
APO, Aga Khan Foundation
Mr. Moulvi Manzoor
Farmer, Isham
Mr. Manzoor Ahmad
Teacher, Limber
Mr. Zahid Ahmad
Teacher , Limber
Mr. Gh. Qadir Dar
Master II, Limber
Mr. M. Ramzan Nazar
Farmer, Limber
Mr. Gh. Qadir Lone
Farmer, Limber
Mr. Syed Rafiq Hussain
Sarpanch, Noorkah
36-59.
Isham Farmers Group (24 Rrespondents)
60-80.
Limber Farmers Group (21 Respondents)
81-95.
Noorkhah Farmers Groups (15 Respondents)
96-110.
Chandanwari Women Group (15 Respondents)
I- INTRODUCTION
Uri is one of the Tehsils of district Baramulla spread over an area of 25192 hectares with a population of 104159 persons which comprises of 54989 males and 49170 females. It lies in the North-Western parts of district Baramulla at 73o 59’ 18.26 E and divided in two administrative blocks viz: Uri and Boniyar having 33 Panchayat halquas with a number of 90 villages. The Tehsil is well demarcated in sub tropical and temperate agro-climatic zones, where summer temperature average goes up to 360 C and occasionally falls below 00 C in sub-tropical areas. It is surrounded by lofty mountains with deep ravines, terraced land and is one of the boarder Tehsil near LOC. The river Jehlum is flowing through the area and is the major source of Hydroelectric Power production of the J&K State. The population is mostly settled on mountain terrains and scattered in small Hamlets with low population density and poor road connectivity. Altitude of the area varies from 1100 meters to 2200 meters. Farmers are having small size of land holdings on these terraces.
The farming in the area is dominated by growing of crops like maize, paddy, wheat, oats, pulses (mostly rajmash), both as irrigated and rain fed. Among the vegetables both Rabi and kharief vegetables are grown in the small kitchen gardens for the domestic purposes only. However, growing of field peas and potato in some of the villages for commercial purposes have developed keen interest among some farmers based on their rich experiences. Generally, in higher altitude belts mono cropping and at lower belts double cropping is in practice at many places. High altitude hills are covered with Pine and Deodar trees and at foothills there is a scanty vegetation of trees like pear, walnut, peach, apple, olive, lemon, and wild apricot etc. The fruit trees are scattered and as such hardly any orchard can be seen in the area. Further, they are with out any layout and are mismanaged. The number of fruit trees (local cultivars/ wild) varied from 8-10 trees per house hold. Naturally tall walnut trees and uncared pear trees are seen in good numbers in the area and on interaction people report meager yields.
Livestock population consists of keeping of 1-2 cattle (local/ cross bred cows, bulls, buffaloes). Sheep, goat and poultry are also reared at domestic level with the indigenous breed and methods. The reported sheep and goat population is 81940 and 27390 respectively and mostly does not exceed 3-4 numbers per household. Cross breeding exists up to some extent in sheep only. Indigenous poultry birds few in number for domestic purposes is a common practice with some of the farm families. Traditional method of bee keeping is still in practice in some village hamlets.
Generally, the people are economically backward and the situation becomes further aggravated due to low productivity, unemployment / underemployment, lack of communication and basic facilities such as education and health. Majority of the people suffer from malnutrition and under nutrition and the worst hit group is children and women. Most of the aged women are illiterate and are suffering from orthopedic problem to a large extent. Further, the mothers were not equipped with health related information such as proper timely immunization schedule for their children.
II-METHODOLOGY
The reorganization process of extension system has lead to the establishment of three ATMAs (agricultural technology and management agencies) in three districts and a SAMETI (State agriculture management extension training institute) in Jammu & Kashmir. The Director Extension Education SKAUST-K is also looking after as Director SAMETI. In order to prepare SREP for the agro-climatic zones of the valley, training programmes and conducting of PRA has now been a regular feature of the SAMETI activities. It is in this connection that Director SAMETI instructed to prepare a Strategic Research and Extension Plan (SREP) through PRA techniques by deputing multidisciplinary team of experts /scientists of SKUAST-K to Uri tehsil of district Baramulla from 16th to 21st of July 2007. The team comprised of scientists/ experts from Extension Education, Agronomy, Pomology, Soil Science, Floriculture, Home Science, Plant protection and Olericulture.
The team along with KVK Programme Coordinator, Baramulla proceeded to Uri on 16th July 2007 from Shalimar Campus and on reaching Uri started working on the assignment.
1. Rapport Building
In order to have a brief idea about the climatic conditions, natural resources, ecology, needs of farming community and opportunities etc. prior to make a plan of PRA the team first of all visited to the office of SDAO, Uri of Development Department.
An interaction meeting was arranged with the officers and field functionaries of development departments, NGOs, scientists and farmers of the locality and gathered some important information on the above aspects. This interaction meeting was also helpful in deciding the representative villages for PRA according to the agro-ecological situations. In each representative village group of farmers of different ages were gathered in the schools / central places of the villages and they were taken in to confidence through informal discussions. Some ideas were exchanged and slowly the discussion was diverted towards the farming allied issues. The groups were convinced and readily shared the required information.
2. Conducting of PRA
For the purpose of SREP, the Tehsil was divided in to three agro –ecological situations (AES) mainly on the basis of altitude because tehsil. Uri comprises of prominent high and low altitude belts with entirely different cropping pattern.
The various AESs as identified are given below.
S.No.
Name
Situation
Representative village
Altitude
1
AES-1
Sub-tropical
Isham
1300m amsl
2
AES-2
Temperate
Limber
1800m amsl
3
AES-3
Sub-temperate
Noorkhah
1420m amsl
3. Transect Walk
After the selection of three representative villagesthe team along with the villagers had a transect walk of each village to acquaint themselves with the village resources and its boundaries.
4. Mapping
Some of the farmers were requested to draw map of the each village using the materials like drawing sheets, pencils, erasers, etc. provided by the resource personnel. While others were encouraged to make correction where ever they felt the need. Through his exercise the team achieved the social and resource mapping of the village.
5. Wealth ranking
Wealth ranking was done by direct and indirect questioning of the farmers on the basis of gross income /month / household without hurting their sentiments and accordingly two income groups i.e. resource rich and resource poor were identified in each village. The number of lower income groups /resource poor with an income up to Rs 2000/month is the basis of consideration.
6. Existing farming system
To know the existing farming systems, different farming enterprises with their contribution and combination being followed were critically analyzed and identified. The farming systems differ according to agro–ecological situations.
7. Gap Analysis
Gap analysis was done on the basis of recommended farming situation based extension. The recommended practice was compared with the existing practice and extent of gap evaluated. The specific reasons for the gap were enquired and the farmers were encouraged to propose strategies for filling the gaps. On the basis of above findings SREP has been formulated for the representative village.
III - GENERAL BACKGROUND OF THE REPRESENTATIVE
VILLAGES AND THEIR SREP
Isham Village
Resource (Income groups)
S.No
Income group (Rupees/Month)
No of Families
Percentage
1
Up to 8000
113
62.78
2
8001-12000
45
25.00
3
More than 12000
22
12.22
Total
180
100 %
Wealth Ranking
S.No
Category
No of Families
Percentage
1
Resource poor
106
58.89
2
Resource Rich
74
41.11
Total
180
100.00
Existing Farming Enterprise
S.No
Enterprise
No. of households
Percentage
1
Agriculture
159
88.5
2
Horticulture
125
69.5
3
Animal Husbandry
122
68.0
4
Sheep Husbandry
54
30.0
5
Poultry Keeping
104
58.0
Existing Farming System
S.No
Existing Farming system
No. of households
Percentage
1.
Agriculture + Horticulture+ Animal Husbandry
94
52.0
2.
Agriculture + Horticulture+ Poultry Keeping
54
30.0
3.
Agriculture + Horticulture+ Sheep Husbandry
32
18.0
Total
180
100.0
Contribution of different enterprises (%)
Enterprise-wise gaps in adoption and proposed extension strategies of the selected villages
-Risk coverage against availability of seed, water, weed and bird damage etc.
-Training cum demonstration on handling farmers own seeds, their treatment and use of inputs for taking healthy nursery.
ii.
variety
Shalimar rice-1, Jehlum K-39
Chinese variety K-39
Partial
-Non-availability of seed and technology of latest varieties
-Demonstration cum training on latest released rice varieties, laying of OFT’s on successful cultivation of Basmati rice
iii.
transplanting time and method
appropriate time is 25th may-10 June with 3-4 seedlings/ hill
First fortnight of June and planting 8-10 seedlings /hill
Partial
-For coverage of seasonal risks and get more plant population established in the field
-OFT on sowing dates for commencement of exact week/date for transplanting and number of plants
iv
Fertilizer application (Urea,DAP,MOP)
Urea-10kg, DAP6.5kg, MOP1.7kg/ kanal
Urea5kg and DAP5kg/kanal
Partial
-Lack of awareness about the use of balanced dose of fertilizer.
-Not available at the right time
-Training cum demonstration on role and efficient use of fertilizer application.
v
Method of fertilizer application
Basal + Top doses
Using basal dose of the available fertilizers only
-do-
-do-
-do-
vi
Insect/ pest problems
IPM
Nil
Full
-lack of awareness in IPM
-Facing the problem of grasshopper almost every year
Training courses to be organized for insect/ pest control especially with reference to grasshopper
vii
Disease problem
IDM
Nil
Full
-Not aware about seed treatment and control measures about any disease
-However, a good number of farmers reported occurrence of Blast in some fields
-Orientation training programmes with regard to disease complex of the crop
-Importance of seed treatment and method
-Application of chemicals to control disease
viii
Yield
3-4 quintal/ kanal
1.3-1.6quintal/kanal
Partial
Lack of general awareness, training and availability of inputs about recommended rice production technology of the state
Organizing awareness camps and training programmes
2
Maize
i
variety
Mansar, C-6, C-8
Local (Francece)
Full
-Unawareness
-Showing preferences for growing white maize for their food
Introduction and popularization of recommended varieties through training and demonstration programmes
ii
Seed rate
1 kg /kanal for line sowing and 1.5kg/kanal for broadcast
4-5 kg/kanal through broadcast only
Partial
-To ensure good plant population
-More labour intensive
Demonstration on benefit of line sowing cultivation which is also feasible for intercropping practicing in the area
iii
Fertilizer
7 kg urea, 6.5 kg DAP, 2.5 kg MOP and 1 kg ZnSo4/kanal
Applying only urea @ 2 kg /kanal at knee high stage
Partial
Unawareness and non availability of the fertilizers
Training on use of fertilizers for growth and development of
iv
Insect/pest /Diseases
Control of cut-worm ,maize stem-borer and sheath blight
Sowing more seed than the recommended seed rate
Full
Do not know about the type and use of chemicals
Training on management /control of insect /pest/diseases
v
Yield
2.5-3 q/kanal
1-1.2 q/kanal
Partial
Growing of local cultivars only and no pest control
Demonstration cum training on improved maize variety
3.
Wheat
i
variety
HS 240
Local
Full
-Unawareness
Introduction and popularization of recommended varieties through training and demonstration programmes
ii
Seed rate and method
5-6 kg/kanal in line sowing
8-10 kg/kanal through broadcast only
Partial
-To ensure good plant population
- Lack of quality seed
- No manual seed drill
Demonstration on benefit of line sowing cultivation.
iii
Seed treatment
Carboxin @ 2g/kg of seed
Nil
Full
-Unawareness
Training cum demonstration on the Importance of seed treatment
iv
Yield
30-40 q/ha
10-12 q/ha
partial
- Use of local seed
- Not popular crop but growing generally for fodder.
-Popularization of wheat as food crop and its fitness in the rice-wheat system. Demonstration should also be conducted on the system.
- Introduction of fodder crops (Oat, berseem etc.)
B) Horticulture
Pear, apricot, walnut low chill apple, olive and lemon are grown in the area. Pear and apricot, matures a month earlier than valley and fetch higher returns to the growers. Walnuts of the areas are not up to the mark due to higher temperature at maturity. Olive of best quality is grown in the area. Lemons are found growing in lower areas but are of poor quality.
1
Walnut
S. No
Packages
Recommended
Existing
Gap (%)
Reason for gap
Farmers proposed strategy
1.
Variety
Hamdan, Sulaiman or better clonal selections
Seedling origin plants
100
Non availability of planting material and unawareness
To train some local unemployed youth to establish the nursery.
Lack of lack of high oil yielding varieties like Ramya, Nikitshaya
Introduction of high oil yielding varieties
2
Spacing
6 x6
No systematic planting of orchard
100
unawareness and undulated lands
-
3
Manure
20 /Tree
Nil
-
unawareness
-
4
Fertilizer
1.2kgN
0.80kgP2O5
0.40 k2O
Applying only N in form of Urea
80
unawareness
Needs awareness programme
5
Pest and disease management
Spray of insecticide and fungicides
Nil
-
unawareness
Needs awareness programme
6
Irrigation
Required
Nil – though plenty of water is available.
unawareness
Need awareness programme
There is a large wild vegetation of Indian olive (Olea cuspidata) whichmay be rejuvenated through top working of high yielding varieties. Lemons are growing in lower areas are of poor quality and there is a good chance for introduction of kinnow in the area for economic production. Allison and Abbott varieties of kiwifruit and day neutral straw berry can also be introduced for crop diversification.
C) Vegetables
S.No
Packages
Recommended
Existing
Gap
Reason for gap
Farmers proposed strategy
Kharief Vegetables
1.
Kharif vegetables and varieties
Cole crops, cucurbits, Solaneaceous and beans etc.
with different high yielding varieties.
growing only few selected vegetables like kale, cucumber, bottle gourd, chillies brinjal tomato and potatoes using local seeds
Partial
- Unawareness about growing of vegetables using modern technologies
- Lack of improved / high yielding varieties of vegetable seed
Creating awareness by organizing camps and training programmes on Kharif vegetables
2.
Nursery raising of vegetables
Open, Hot bed and polyhouse technologies
Growing nursery in open beds.
Partial
- Unawareness and lack of knowledge about other methods
Organizing of training programmes for vegetable nursery management
3.
Level of Cultivation
Domestic and commercial
Growing only for Domestic purposes in their backyards
Partial
- Unawareness about growing vegetables for regular consumption and commercial value
Popularizing kitchen gardening for regular supply of fresh vegetables at home.
4.
Plant protection
Seed treatment and IPM
Not undertaking any plant protection measure and face problems of cut worms, borers and wilt in chillies.
Full
- Lack of knowledge and method of controlling the vegetable disease and pests
Training cum demonstration on IPM in vegetables
5.
Use of FYM and Fertilizers
Use of sufficient quantity of well decomposed FYM and balanced dose of fertilizers
Using only FYM and a little quantity of urea
partial
- Lack of knowledge and non availability of in puts.
Organizing a training programme on Integrated Nutrient Management in vegetales
Rabi Vegetables
1.
Rabi vegetables and varieties
Root, leafy, bulbs and tuber vegetables
Growing only selected vegetables like Kale, turnip and radish
Partial
- Generally unaware about the Rabi vegetables and root vegetables not growing well
Awareness cum training programme on cultivation of Rabi vegetables
2.
Level of cultivation
Domestic and commercial
Growing only for Domestic purposes in their backyards
Partial
- Unawareness about growing vegetables for regular consumption and commercial value
Popularizing kitchen gardening for regular supply of fresh vegetables at home.
3.
Post Harvest
Various post harvest technologies for vegetables
Following only natural sun drying methods in some vegetables
Partial
- Lack of knowledge about various post harvest technologies
Training programmes related to post harvest technologies may be organized.
D) Livestock (Cattle, sheep, goat and poultry)
S.No
Item
Recommended
Existing
Gap
Reason for gap
Farmers proposed strategy
1.
Breed
1. Cattle
2. Sheep & Goat
cross-bred
cross-bred
Local and cross-bred
Local and cross-bred
Partial
Partial
- Lack of AI facilities and repeated heat in most of the animals
Lack of breeding rams
Intensification of cross-bred programme
Training programme on organizing viable sheep and goat units
2
Feed
Fodder and concentrate ration
Mostly Fodder
Partial
unawareness about the feeding schedule
-Training on feeding schedule of animals
3.
Health
Regular dosing and vaccination
Nil
Full
Lack of knowledge about animal diseases and their control
Training programme on Management of prominent diseases like FMD in cattle, foot rot and skin problems in sheep.
4.
Milk yield
10-15 litres/day/cow
3-5 litres/day/cow
Partial
local breed and management
Awareness camp on Scientific animal rearing for higher yields and returns.
5.
Poultry
1. Breed
2. Feed
3. Health
4. General Management
Broilar (COBB), Vanraja
Recommended balanced concentrate ration as per age and type
Regular dosing and vaccination
Recommended scientific practices
Local
Mostly feeding on household wastes
Nil
Practicing indigenous methods (Backyard poultry)
Full
Full
Full
Partial
Unawareness and Non-availability of germplasm
Lack of knowledge about balanced feeding and their preparation
Lack of knowledge about poultry diseases and their control
Commercial poultry units are costly and risky
Introduction of new breeds like Vanraja etc.
Training programme on Poultry feeds and feeding schedule
Training programme on Management of prominent diseases like ranikhet and cocidiosis etc.
Popularizing poultry through establishment of demonstration units.
E) Home science
The survey data analysis reveals some useful results relating to the sex-wise demographic statistics, socio-economic conditions, source of income, occupational status, educational literacy, health conditions, living standards, agricultural status, horticultural practices, veterinary services, etc.
Health status of women and the facilities available
The women during house-to-house survey expressed that they cannot avail health facilities in the area and have to cover a long distance at the time of emergency, either to Baramulla or to Srinagar. Further, it was observed that the women above 30 years of age were mainly illiterate and only a small no of them were able to write their names. The women were not equipped with any health related information, even they were not aware of he proper immunization schedule for their children. No professional help was available in the area for facilitating deliveries of the pregnant women. They were also unaware of the birth control measures and the importance of balanced diet during pregnancy and lactation. The women above 45 years of age were suffering from bone and joint pain largely. However, anemia and malnutrition was common among the adolescent girls. Besides, some women also complained of the stomach problems. The percentage of commonly found diseases among the different age groups of the women in Isham village is given as.
Health status of women in Isham (percentage of disorders found)
S.No
Health condition
Females(age-group)
5-20 years
20-35 years
Above 35
1
Normal Health
50
35
40
2
Malnutrition and anemia
45
40
24
3
Orthopedic Problem
2
25
65
4
Stomach Problem
-
25
30
Health Status and Medical Facilities Availed by Pregnant women
The survey data reveals that only 15-20 %of pregnant women seek medical checkup from district hospitals, located at a long distance from the area. The 24-hour food recall method was also used to know about the nutritional intake of the women and it was found the food intake of these women was too low than the recommended allowances for the condition., thus leading to various disorders among them. An analysis of the data revealed that the pregnant and lactating women were malnourished, anemic and were suffering from the various diseases due imbalanced diets
Analysis of the main nutrient intake of the lactating mothers
(Adult-moderate worker)
S.No
For lactating mothers
K.cal
Proteins(gms)
Calcium(mg)
1
Recommended allowances/day
2725
70
1000
2
Nutrient intake /day
1945
43
685
3
Gap found/day
-780
-27
-315
The data analysis shows that the diet taken every day by a pregnant woman is less in essential nutrients i.e.780 K.calories from carbohydrates and fats, 27 grams of proteins and 315 mg Calcium. Which in turn has resulted in the occurrence of various deficiencies among them and the incidences of anemia and malnutrition are increasing day by day in the area. These depleted intakes were found to be because of poor selection of foodstuffs on daily routine basis and the improper methods of cooking used.
Schooling Facilities
The area has one Govt. high school constructed by air force-India and has a primary school. All of the 24 families visited, used to send their children irrespective of sex to the school. However, it was found that the girls usually discontinue their studies after the Matric due to unavailability of the higher secondary school in the area and families do not prefer to send their wards to the far off places for the further studies. Besides, a private school was also present in the area. People also complained that they are not getting the private tuition facilities for their children.
Limber Village
The limber village of Boniyar block is one of the representative villages for temperate agro-eco situation of the region at an altitude of 1800 meters. The village is spread over an area of 394 ha of land and 170 ha are under different crops out of which only 86 ha have the irrigation facility. The major source of irrigation is Limber Nala flowing through the village, otherwise the remaining crops and area is rain fed. Due to difficult terrain and lack of irrigation facilities mono-cropping is mostly followed. Mostly Maize is grown as major food crop and paddy is rarely grown. The village comprises of Thirteen Patties (Hamlets) seven upper (choolan, saranwala, bela, babagale, brren/gujjar, budrali, langer) and six (haran, shahkoot, jamia masjid, kharhar, jungri, suchin) in lower parts of the Limber. The number of households is 480 with a total population of 3277 persons comprising of 1830 males and 1447 females. 835 persons have been categorized as schedule tribes. The family size ranges from 4-12 members per household.
-Showing preferences for growing white maize for their food
Introduction and popularization of recommended varieties through training and demonstration programmes
ii
Seed rate
1 kg /kanal for line sowing and 1.5kg/kanal for broadcast
5-6 kg/kanal through broadcast only
Partial
-To ensure good plant population
-More labour intensive
Demonstration on benefit of line sowing cultivation which is also feasible for intercropping practicing in the area
iii
Fertilizer
7 kg urea, 6.5 kg DAP, 2.5 kg MOP and 1 kg ZnSo4/kanal
Applying only urea @ 3 kg /kanal at knee high stage and DAP @ 1kg/kanal as basal
Partial
Unawareness and non availability of the fertilizers
Training on use of fertilizers for growth and development of
iv
Insect/ pest / Diseases
Control of cut-worm ,maize stem-borer and sheath blight
Sowing more seed than the recommended seed rate
Full
Do not know about the type and use of chemicals
Training on management /control of insect /pest/diseases
v
Yield
2.5-3 q/kanal
2-2.2 q/kanal under irrigated and 0.7-1.0 q/kanal under unirrigated
Partial
Growing of local cultivars only and no pest control, Damage by bear and monkeys
Demonstration cum training on improved maize variety
2.
Rajmash
i
variety
Bountiful, Master, Kentucky wonder
Local (lal choti and safed)
Full
-Unawareness
Introduction and popularization of recommended varieties through training and demonstration programmes
ii
Seed rate
Bush type- 4-5kg, pole type- 1.2-1.5 kg/kanal in line sowing
250g/ kanal in intercrop and 1kg/kanal for sole crop through broadcasting
Partial
-More labour intensive
-Unawareness
Demonstration on benefit of line sowing cultivation which is also feasible for intercropping practicing in the area
B) Horticulture
Only walnut is grown in these areas and have good quality due to lower temperature at time of maturity and play major role in the economy of the farmer of these areas. Though apple and pear can grow successfully but there may be the marketing problem due to poor transportation facilities.
S.No
Packages
Recommended
Existing
Gap (%)
Reason for gap
Farmers proposed strategy
1.
Walnut
1.
Variety
Hamdan, Sulaiman or better clonal selections
Seedling origin plants
100
Non availability of planting material and unawareness
To train some local unemployed youth to establish the nursery.
2
Spacing
8 x8
No systematic planting of orchard
100
unawareness and undulated lands
-
3
Manure
20kg /Tree
Nil
-
unawareness
-
4
Fertilizer
Urea-3915g
DAP-1085g
MOP-2490g
Nil
-
unawareness
Needs awareness programme
5
Pest and disease management
Spray of insecticide and fungicides
Nil- but walnut weevil is the major problem.
-
unawareness
Needs awareness programme
6
Irrigation
Required
Nil – though plenty of water is available.
-
unawareness
Need awareness programme
C) Vegetables
S.No
Packages
Recommended
Existing
Gap
Reason for gap
Farmers proposed strategy
Kharief Vegetables
1.
Kharif vegetables and varieties
Cole crops, cucurbits, Solaneaceous and beans etc.
with different high yielding varieties.
growing only few selected vegetables like kale, cucumber, bottle gourd, chillies brinjal tomato and potatoes using local seeds
Partial
- Unawareness about growing of vegetables using modern technologies
- Lack of improved / high yielding varieties of vegetable seed
Creating awareness by organizing camps and training programmes on Kharif vegetables
2.
Nursery raising of vegetables
Open, Hot bed and polyhouse technologies
Growing nursery in open beds.
Partial
- Unawareness and lack of knowledge about other methods
Organizing of training programmes for vegetable nursery management
3.
Level of Cultivation
Domestic and commercial
Growing only for Domestic purposes in their backyards
Partial
- Unawareness about growing vegetables for regular consumption and commercial value
Popularizing kitchen gardening for regular supply of fresh vegetables at home.
4.
Plant protection
Seed treatment and IPM
Not undertaking any plant protection measure and face problems of cut worms, borers and wilt in chillies.
Full
- Lack of knowledge and method of controlling the vegetable disease and pests
Training cum demonstration on IPM in vegetables
5.
Use of FYM and Fertilizers
Use of sufficient quantity of well decomposed FYM and balanced dose of fertilizers
Using only FYM and a little quantity of urea
partial
- Lack of knowledge and non availability of in puts.
Organizing a training programme on Integrated Nutrient Management in vegetales
Rabi Vegetables
1.
Rabi vegetables and varieties
Root, leafy, bulbs and tuber vegetables
Growing only selected vegetables like Kale, turnip and radish
Partial
- Generally unaware about the Rabi vegetables and root vegetables not growing well
Awareness cum training programme on cultivation of Rabi vegetables
2.
Level of cultivation
Domestic and commercial
Growing only for Domestic purposes in their backyards
Partial
- Unawareness about growing vegetables for regular consumption and commercial value
- Seed production of potato can be practiced
Popularizing kitchen gardening for regular supply of fresh vegetables at home.
Diversification through commercial seed production can be demonstrated on potato.
3.
Post Harvest
Various post harvest technologies for vegetables
Following only natural sun drying methods in some vegetables
Partial
- Lack of knowledge about various post harvest technologies
Training programmes related to post harvest technologies may be organized.
D) Home science
Health status of women and facilities available
The health standard of the population as a whole was not satisfactory and the women and children were most affected due to various disorders and deficiencies. The women were not equipped with any health related information, even they were not aware of the proper immunization schedule for their children. There was a primary health center but no professional help was available in the area for facilitating deliveries of the pregnant women and they have to go to the distant places for the emergency medical supervision. Besides, the nutritional awareness among the women was also weak. They had no knowledge regarding the selection of the nutritionally high value foodstuffs in different physiological conditions. Further, the cooking practices used by them were also false which had resulted in the loss of the essential nutrients. The deficiencies commonly found among the women of the Limber are anemia, malnutrition and arthritis. They need complete awareness regarding the importance of balanced diet in both normal and other conditions as the health standard was deteriorating day by day in the area.
Educational status
The area had one high school, one middle school and few primary schools. They also had a facility of mobile schools in the area .The total literacy rate was 60% and no gender bias was observed among the families for providing education to their children. However, again here the same problem of dropout among the girls was found after the middle or the Matric due to non availability of the provisions for the higher studies.
Noorkah Village
The village Noorkah of Boniyar block is one of the representative villages for sub-temperate agro-eco-situation of Uri region and was used for conducting PRA. The village is situated at an altitude of 1420m amsl on the foot hill of mountainous range and is opposite side of village Chandenwari on the Uri-Baramulla National highway. The river Jhelum separates the two villages. The village is spread over an area of 65 hectares and irrigated through Nilossa- Noorkah and Noorkah general koul. Most of the cropped area is irrigated and facilitate double cropping. Major Kharif crops are rice and maize whereas in Rabi season wheat, oats, Sarson and berseem are grown. The area is having a high potential for vegetable cultivation. Pear and walnut are the main fruits of the area. The village comprises of four patties (hamlets) namely Khurmjar, Sadat mohalla, Khan mohalla and Ahnger mohalla. The total numbers of households are 300 with a population of 2450 persons comprising of 1300 males and 1150 females. The family size ranges from 4 – 12 members, however in few of the households the strength of family members exceeded than 12 members.
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a long list enclosed at the top ghulam mohyuddin wani,majeed tantray,rehana khanth ,g m mir,and others enlisted in each section
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