Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov 30: A demonstration programme on “Azolla Cultivation” under the ATMA Scheme was conducted of Great Nicobar Island. The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, in collaboration with UT-ATMA, organized a demonstration on Azolla Cultivation at Govind Nagar village of Great Nicobar Island on 28th November 2025. The initiative aims to improve the availability of nutritious feed supplement for livestock, ultimately contributing to increased milk production and livestock growth.
The demonstration was conducted at the agricultural field of Mrs. Pushpa Bai, wife of Mr. Agnu Ram at Govind Nagar village. Dr. Parag Deori, Senior Veterinary Officer (SVO), Campbell Bay, explained in detail the method and practices involved in cultivating Azolla, a nutrient-rich livestock feed supplement. He highlighted the numerous benefits of incorporating Azolla into livestock feed due to its high nutritional value. The programme emphasized on to adopt Azolla cultivation to the participants as a cost-effective alternative to expensive livestock feed, which can significantly reduce the cost of animal rearing.
Azolla is a fast-growing aquatic fern often referred to as “green gold” due to its nutritional value and use as a low-cost livestock feed. Azolla, for instance, can be cultivated in shallow pits using minimal water and labour and serves as an affordable feed option for ducks, poultry, and cattle. In addition to the Azolla demonstration, inputs were also provided to the participating farmer.
