Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 21: A Scientist–Farmer Interaction Programme was organized by ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nicobar, in collaboration with UTATMA, on 21 September 2026 at the Community Hall, Tapoiming Village, Car Nicobar. The programme aimed to provide a common platform for interaction among farmers, KVK scientists, village representatives and officials from various line departments, with a focus on addressing the agricultural and allied-sector needs and concerns of the local farming community. The programme was graced by Mr. Lawrence Mathew, First Captain, Tapoiming Village as chief guest, and Mr. Simon William, Second Captain, Tapoiming Village, along with representatives from the Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, and Environment & Forests. The programme commenced with the Welcome Address delivered by Dr. Santosh Kumar, Senior Scientist & Head, ICAR-KVK CIARI, Nicobar. He warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, village representatives, officials from different departments, KVK scientists and participating farmers. In his address, he highlighted the importance of regular and effective scientist–farmer interaction in understanding field-level problems and providing suitable, location-specific technical solutions. He emphasized that such programmes provide farmers with an opportunity to directly interact with experts, clarify their technical queries and learn about improved technologies and practices that can contribute to enhanced productivity, efficient use of resources and improved livelihoods. The special addresses were delivered by representatives from various concerned departments. Ms. Bhu Bharati, Agriculture Officer, Department of Agriculture, addressed the farmers on improved agricultural practices and apprised them of various departmental schemes, programmes and support services available to the farming community. Dr. Baljit Kaur, Senior Veterinary Officer, Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, delivered a detailed address on pig health management and scientific pig production practices. She highlighted the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation in pig sheds, providing balanced nutrition and clean drinking water, and following timely vaccination and deworming schedules to prevent common diseases. She also emphasized regular health monitoring, early identification of disease symptoms and timely veterinary intervention to minimize mortality and improve animal health and productivity. Mr. Rama Rao, Department of Forests, highlighted the importance of forest conservation, sustainable utilization of natural resources and adoption of environment-friendly practices relevant to the local farming community. The programme was graced by Mr. Lawrence Mathew, First Captain, Tapoiming Village, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he appreciated the initiative of KVK Nicobar and UTATMA in organizing the Scientist–Farmer Interaction Programme at the village level. He emphasized the importance of continued technical support, scientific guidance and close coordination among farmers, village representatives, KVK scientists and government departments for the development of agriculture and allied activities in the village. The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Mr. Ajmal S., Subject Matter Specialist, KVK Nicobar. He expressed sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, Mr. Lawrence Mathew, First Captain, Mr. Simon William, Second Captain, officials from the Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, and Environment & Forests, representatives of UTATMA, KVK scientists and all participating farmers for their valuable presence, active participation and contribution to the successful conduct of the programme. The Scientist–Farmer Interaction Programme was successfully organized by ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nicobar, under the overall guidance of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR–CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram. His leadership, guidance and support were instrumental in the effective planning, coordination and successful execution of the programme. The programme will be conducted by Mr. Deepoo Meena, SMS, Agril. Eng.
