The Thai government will launch its Khok Nong Na model for community development in Ubon Ratchathani on World Soil Day, promoting sustainable development of rural areas.

Thai interior permanent secretary Suttipong Juljarern said the model was being trialed at Ban Phran Bun, in Ubon Ratchathani’s Muang district.

Thai ministry would launch new initiatives based on the Khok Nong Na model on World Soil Day, Dec 5. “We want to launch the project that day because His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great’s birthday is also on Dec 5,” said Mr Suttipong.

The Khok Nong Na model is an agricultural concept based on the New Theory of Agriculture and the Sufficiency Economy philosophy championed by the king of Thailand.

Under the model, land is divided into four parts, each with a specific use. Part is reserved for irrigation and water storage, part for growing rice and other assorted crops, and the rest is reserved for living space and livestock.

Mr Suttipong said the model is based on indigenous practices and helps prevent soil degradation from repeated cropping. Thai interior Ministry would work with affiliated agencies and local people to implement the project, he said.