Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 23 September 2025
The ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI) organized a Field Day on “Demonstration of High-Yielding Improved Varieties of Rice for Increasing Production and Productivity” at its Bloomsdale Research Farm today. The event aimed to showcase rice varieties suited to island conditions to help farmers enhance yield and productivity.
Around 30 rice-growing farmers participated in the program. Dr. P.K. Singh, Principal Scientist, provided detailed insights on the Dweep Dhan 1 to Dweep Dhan 11 rice varieties, highlighting their characteristics, pest and disease resistance, and yield potential. Farmers also observed live demonstration plots of short-, medium-, and long-duration rice varieties and engaged with scientists to understand their suitability for local conditions.
Dr. Abhilash, Scientist, emphasized the significance of transplanting time on pest and disease management, harvesting, and yield. He also discussed the role of the Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS) and related advisories in supporting farmers.
Dr. Ramakrishna, Head of KVK South Andaman, shared best practices in agronomy and the relevance of natural farming in rice cultivation. Dr. Eaknath Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, stressed the importance of adopting improved varieties and modern technologies to boost productivity, while urging farmers to enhance cropping intensity by cultivating oilseeds and pulses in paddy fallows to improve farm income.
The program was also attended by Dr. Raj Narayan (Head, Horticulture), Dr. Jai Sunder (Head, Animal Science), and Heads of KVKs from North Andaman (Dr. Damodaran) and Nicobar (Dr. Santhosh), along with SMS of KVKs and scientists including Mr. Chittaranjan Raul. Dr. Prabhu P., Scientist, anchored the event, ensuring smooth conduct throughout. Farmers expressed their appreciation for the live demonstrations and technical guidance provided by CIARI experts.
