Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 24: The ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), CIARI, Nicobar successfully organized a Training-cum-Exhibition Program on Integrated Farming System (IFS) for Sustainable Livelihoods at the Community Hall, Tapoiming Village, Car Nicobar. The event aimed to enhance awareness and adoption of the IFS model for improving the socio-economic resilience of farmers in the Nicobar Islands. The program was graced by Mr. Amit Kale, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobars, as the Chief Guest; Mr. Lionald Nicomed, Chief Captain, as the Guest of Honour; and Dr. E. B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram, as the Key Speaker. Representatives from the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Husbandry Departments, along with the First headman, Mr. Lawrence Mathew and Second Headmen Mr. Simon William of Tapoiming Village, were also present during the inaugural session. The exhibition was formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest followed by a visit to the various stalls setup by KVK, Nicobar, Agriculture, Fisheries, and local community showcasing agricultural technologies, tools, and local Nicobar products. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Mr. Amit Kale, IAS, appreciated the initiative and encouraged the participants to actively engage in the training. He also interacted with the farmers, discussing the potential of IFS in improving income, food security, and environmental sustainability in the Nicobar. Chief Captain Lionald Nicomed, the Guest of Honour, highlighted the importance of traditional agricultural knowledge and encouraged farmers to adopt scientific advancements while preserving their indigenous practices. In his keynote address, Dr. E.B. Chakurkar emphasized the pivotal role of KVKs in promoting agricultural innovation in the region. He elaborated on the significance of the IFS model in ensuring sustainable livelihoods while conserving the traditional values and biodiversity of the Nicobar Islands.
Dr. Santosh Kumar, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Nicobar, welcomed all the dignitaries and participants and introduced the aims and objectives of the program. The technical training sessions were led by Dr. Sanketh G.D, Dr. Akshay, and Mr. Deepoo Meena, who delivered insightful lectures on the implementation and benefits of the IFS model in the island ecosystem. As part of the event, various agricultural inputs were distributed to farmers and farm women to promote mechanization and adoption of improved agricultural practices. A total of 70 farmers, including 27 male farmers and 43 farm women, actively participated in the program.
