Car Nicobar, February 13, 2026
A major initiative aimed at strengthening horticulture development and enhancing livelihood and nutritional security in Nicobar district was inaugurated at the Community Hall, Big Lapathy village, on Thursday.
The project titled “Boosting Livelihood and Ensuring Nutritional Security Through Horticulture Development in Nicobar” seeks to empower farmers through improved vegetable cultivation and scientific horticultural practices suited to local conditions.
The programme was inaugurated by Lionad Nicomed, CTC, Car Nicobar, and First Village Captain Mr. Manuah Thomas, in the presence of Mr. Gopalan Santhanam, General Manager, NABARD; Mr. Praphul Dev, Assistant Manager, NABARD; and Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nicobar.
Welcoming the dignitaries, farmers and officials, Dr. Santosh Kumar outlined the objectives of the project, emphasizing the need to strengthen horticulture in the region to enhance farmers’ income and ensure year-round availability of fresh and nutritious fruits and vegetables. He stated that the initiative focuses on capacity building, supply of quality planting materials, technical guidance and promotion of scientific cultivation practices tailored to local agro-climatic conditions.
In his inaugural address, Lionad Nicomed encouraged farmers to actively participate in vegetable cultivation and horticultural activities. He stressed the importance of increasing local vegetable production to reduce dependency on external sources and ensure nutritional security for island communities. He also urged farmers to adopt improved techniques and work collectively for the success of the initiative.
Addressing the gathering, First Village Captain Mr. Manuah Thomas appreciated the efforts of NABARD and KVK Nicobar in implementing the project in the region. He called upon farmers and village members to actively support horticultural activities to strengthen local food production and improve community well-being, underscoring the importance of unity and collective effort for long-term benefits.
Mr. Gopalan Santhanam elaborated on NABARD’s role in promoting rural development and livelihood enhancement. He explained the key components of the project and assured continued institutional support for horticulture development in Nicobar. He encouraged farmers to effectively utilise the technical and financial assistance being extended under the programme.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, village leaders, officials, farmers and organisers for their participation.
The project is being implemented under the guidance of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (Acting), ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram.
