Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 March 2025
The ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI) conducted a twin programme aimed at improving the livelihoods of Nicobari farmers through the Integrated Farming System (IFS) and Agro-Advisory Services. The initiative, held on March 12 and 13, was organized by the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Integrated Farming System in collaboration with Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva and the Zonal Agricultural Office, Nancowrie.
The programme covered four villages—Kakana, Pilpillow, Chotta Enaka, and Hitui—where small agricultural implements were distributed to support farming activities. A total of 195 farmers participated in the awareness-cum-training programme, which focused on sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced farm productivity.
Dr. I. Jaisankar, Senior Scientist (Agroforestry) and Principal Investigator of the AICRP on Integrated Farming System, explained the scope and benefits of the IFS model. He emphasized the integration of tuber crops, fish, poultry, and cattle farming, alongside waste recycling, organic waste management, and integrated pest and disease control. The use of multipurpose tree species and CIARI technologies was also highlighted as a means to boost farm income.
The event was coordinated by Dr. Abhilash and Mr. T. Harshang Kumar, both Scientists at CIARI; Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Car Nicobar; and Mr. M.K. Arsad, AFA, Department of Agriculture, Nancowrie.
To aid farmers in their agricultural pursuits, a range of tools and resources were distributed, including 95 axes, 55 hand saws, 102 crowbars, 102 spades with handles, 105 bend knives, 2 garden pruners, and 250 kg of Dweep Bioconsortia.
The initiative was conducted under the guidance of Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, Director, CIARI, as part of the institute’s ongoing efforts to enhance sustainable farming practices in the region. (Story Based on PR)