A Field Day and Farmer Interaction Meet under the SCSP Programme

12th October 2023, Ernakulam

ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa organised a Field Day and Farmer Interaction Meet under the Schedule Caste Sub Plan Programme scheme in the Kadamakkudy Islands of the coastal district of Ernakulam, Kerala today.

Kadamakkudy is known for paddy fields with Pokkali rice farming, scenic backwaters with fish, duck farming and tourism activities. The area is a unique ecosystem prevailing in the coastal saline tract of central Kerala with rich bio-diversity.

A team of scientists from the Institute interacted with the farmers and Grama panchayat officials with the aim to identify and record major problems faced in agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries under the changing climate and natural disaster scenario during a meeting convened in a fish-cum-crab farm at Pizhala island in Kadamakkudy.

Unsustainable farming practices have led to farming land becoming more acidic, drinking water sources becoming more brackish, and reducing the availability of cultivable land. Fish farming on the island is impacted by challenges like the decline in water depth due to heavy siltation and deterioration in water quality especially during monsoon and pre-monsoon periods.

The scientist team also provided much-needed guidance on scientific practices in rice cultivation, horticulture, livestock, poultry and fish farming. Veterinary medicines and extension folders on scientific livestock farming were also distributed during the programme which was attended by 20 farmers from the SC community.

(Source: ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa)