Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 July 2025
In a continued effort to enhance farm profitability and promote scientific crop management across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Union Territory Agriculture Technology Management Agency (UTATMA), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, A&N Administration, is conducting Kharif Campaigns, demonstrations, and training programmes across various blocks of the islands.
On 16th July 2025, the Kharif Campaign was actively conducted in three key blocks — Mayabunder, Car Nicobar, and Nancowrie. At Mayabunder, the campaign was inaugurated by PRI member Mr. Dhanveer at the Pudumadurai Community Hall, where farmers and agricultural officials engaged in informative sessions. In Car Nicobar, the event was held at the Community Hall in Kakana village, graced by Mr. Emmanuel, 2nd Headman, and Mr. Edward, Village Secretary, who urged local farmers to adopt progressive and sustainable farming methods. Meanwhile, in Nancowrie, the campaign was hosted at the Community Hall in Sanuh village in the presence of Mr. Taufique Ahmed, 3rd Captain.
The campaigns focused on generating awareness among farmers about a wide range of agricultural schemes and best practices. Participants were educated on key Government of India initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme. Sessions also emphasized the importance of soil health, proper agricultural operations for the Kharif season, and the preparation and use of organic inputs like Neemastra and Jeevamrith.
In addition to mainstream agriculture, allied sectors were given due attention. The significance of activities such as beekeeping for income diversification was highlighted, and details were shared about schemes under HVADA, Minor Irrigation, and other supporting programs.
As part of the campaign’s extended initiatives, a demonstration on ‘Vermicomposting in Vermibed’ was held at the field of Mr. Laxmi Kanta Halder in Subhash Gram, Diglipur, in the presence of Ward Member Ms. Sumati Roy. Furthermore, a training programme on ‘Freshwater Fish Pond Management’ was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries at Nabagram Community Hall. The session saw the presence of Mr. Nirodh Mondal, Sarpanch of Nabagram Village.
These concerted efforts aim to bridge the gap between farmers and extension systems, enabling a more informed and resilient farming community across the islands. (Story Based on PR)
