promising bio-resources from coconut that could be exploited on commercial purposes. A number of artifacts and products are being prepared from coir which are not only helping in utilization of coconut waste but also in generating livelihood to small and marginal farmers. Coir pith compost is one such input which is not efficiently utilized so far in the islands. Considering the importance of this aspect, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute had established a demonstration unit for coir pith composting at its Garacharma farm.
As a part of the ongoing training programme by Coir Board, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat, Tushnabad requested for a demonstration of coir pith composting technology. For the benefit of stakeholders, an exposure visit was organized to coir pith com posting unit by Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, Scientist, ICAR-CIARI. A group of 30 participants including Smti. Kakuli Ghosh, Secretary, Panchayat Samiti, Smti. M. Saida, Up Pradhan, Panchayat Samiti Member,Smti.RatanKumari, Ex ZP Upadhyaksha, Shri. Anand Amrit Raj, Up Sarpanch Smti. Geetanjali, other staff of the Panchayat and farmers visited the institute on December 6, 2019.
During the programme, Dr. Ajit explained in detail about selection of site, inputs requirement and methods used for preparation of coir pith compost. Further, participants were demonstrated with composting technique. He also explained about the possibilities of marketing the produce. Dr. Pooja Bohra, Scientist, ICAR-CIARI explained about importance and uses of coir pith compost for nursery and crop production. At the end, the participants also visited Horticultural Plant Propagation Unit of the institute and learnt about various native fruits and spices of these islands. The programme was conducted under overall guidance and supervision of Dr. B. Augustine Jerard, Director (A), ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair.
