Car Nicobar, Jan. 11:”The village – to- village drive initiative under Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojna (DDU-GKY), a Govt. of India Scheme aimed at skill development and Employment generation for Rural Youth was organized by the CD Block, Car Nicobar in collaboration with Department of Agriculture, Car Nicobar yesterday at Kakana Community Hall.
The programme focused on the formation of Farmer Producers Organization (FPO’s) and to sensitize farming community about the benefits of collective farming, market linkages and sustainable agriculture. During the session, the gathering was addressed by Agriculture Officer, Car Nicobar, Extension Officer(i/c), CD Block, Cluster Coordinator, Village Level Worker(VLW), Community Resource Persons(CRPs) and Data Entry Operators of DDU-GKY. The Extension Officer (i/c) CD Block, Car Nicobar briefed about the Rozgar & Ajeevika Mission (Coconut Drying) under VB-G RAM G ACT and free residential skill training under DDU-GKY2.0 .
The Agriculture Officer, Car Nicobar highlighted the importance and benefits of Mechanized processing to minimize moisture content in making of copra for better results. He also motivated the community groups and Self Help Groups (SHGs) to come forward and assume responsibility as the Operating Entity of the mechanized Copra Drying and Vacuum Packaging unit installed at Multi Purpose Farm, Perka. The unit installed in the department helps in enhancing both the quality and market value of copra, enabling farmers to secure better prices. Also opportunities exist for establishing coconut oil extraction units (both cold and hot press), as well as promoting coconut-based handicrafts and value-added products such as coconut shell crafts, ropes, coir mats, charcoal and confectionery items. These initiatives collectively contribute to strengthening rural livelihoods and fostering the empowerment of smallholder farmers.
The event witnessed active participation from Village Headman, farmers and youth.
