Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 02 August 2025
In a significant step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing spice production, the Department of Agriculture, Little Andaman zone, in coordination with other zones across the Union Territory, conducted a large-scale plantation drive under the ‘Spice Pravah’ initiative on July 31, 2025.
The programme, held at Ramakrishnapur Gram Panchayat, witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and field functionaries. It was formally inaugurated by Mr. Parmanathan, Pramukh, Panchayat Samiti, Little Andaman, in the presence of Ms. Siuli Mondal, Pradhan, Ramakrishnapur, Mr. Rudramoorty, Pradhan, Hutbay, and other members of the Panchayat Samiti.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Parmanathan lauded the Agriculture Department’s continued efforts in promoting spice cultivation across the islands. He appreciated the department’s ongoing support and training initiatives aimed at empowering farmers and improving production practices.
Ms. Mary Magdalene, Agriculture Officer, emphasized the importance of the ‘Spice Pravah’ initiative in expanding the area under spice cultivation and fostering sustainable agricultural methods.
Providing technical insights, Mr. Dinesh Chandra Das, Agriculture Assistant, spoke about best practices in spice farming, popular black pepper varieties, and the export potential of locally grown spices.
As part of the drive, 2,200 rooted black pepper cuttings were planted across one hectare of land belonging to four beneficiary farmers — Mr. Ashok Bachar, Mr. Shyamlal Mondal, Mr. Kamlesh Mondal, and Mr. Noni Gopal Baroi. In addition, 200 saplings were distributed to other farmers to encourage broader participation in spice cultivation.
The initiative reaffirms the Department of Agriculture’s commitment to sustainable development and economic upliftment of the farming community through expanded spice production in Little Andaman and beyond.
