Sri Vijaya Puram, Jun 17: A training programme titled “Natural Farming Practices under Tuber Crops-Based Integrated Farming System” was conducted by CIARI scientists under the Scheduled Tribe Component (STC) of the AICRP on Integrated Farming System, in collaboration with ICAR-KVK, Car Nicobar, from 12th to 14th June 2025 at Nancowrie Islands. Dr. I. Jaisankar, Senior Scientist (Agroforestry) and Principal Investigator of the AICRP on Integrated Farming System, explained the advantages and potential of integrated farming systems, emphasizing the incorporation of various components to enhance farm income. He elaborated on the Organic Integrated Farming System (OIFS) developed by ICAR-CIARI and shared outcomes from experimental trials involving diverse combinations of vegetables, tubers, spices, fodder, and fruit crops, along with the integration of goat, pig, poultry, and fish farming. He also highlighted CIARI-developed technologies, organic waste management techniques, and integrated pest and disease management strategies. The importance of natural farming practices, including the preparation and application of organic inputs for improving soil productivity through tuber crop-based systems, was also discussed.
A demonstration was conducted on the use of the Dweep Leaf Separator, and 50 units were distributed to women farmers. The tool’s function and its method of removing the midrib from coconut leaves were clearly explained. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head, KVK Car Nicobar, Dr. Abhilash, Scientist (NRM), and Mr. Talaviya Harshang Kumar, Scientist (NRM). The following items were distributed to the farmers: 45 crowbars, 40 axes, 30 spades, 500 sweet potato rooted cuttings, and 500 tapioca setts. A total of 139 farmers from the villages of Kakana, Pilpillow, and Munak of Nancowrie Islands participated in the training. The programme was organized under the overall guidance of Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram.
