Kisan Mela–2026-cum-Exhibition Inaugurated at ICAR–CIARI

27 February 2026, Sri Vijaya Puram

The Kisan Mela–2026-cum-Exhibition was inaugurated today at ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram, by Dr A. K. Nayak, Deputy Director General (Natural Resource Management), ICAR.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries including Dr A. Velmurugam, Assistant Director General (SWM), ICAR; Dr B. Augustine Jerard, Project Coordinator (Palms), ICAR-ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod; Dr Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI; Tribal Chief Shri Lionald Nicomed from CTC, Car Nicobar; and Shri Rakesh B. Pangat, Deputy General Manager, NABARD, Sri Vijaya Puram, along with scientists, officials, farmers, farm women, and other stakeholders.

In his inaugural address, Dr A. K. Nayak commended ICAR-CIARI for its substantial contributions in research, development, and transfer of technologies across agriculture, horticulture, livestock, fisheries, and natural resource management. He described the Kisan Mela as a dedicated platform for farmers, aimed at strengthening knowledge exchange and technology dissemination.

Highlighting the unique ecological wealth of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands characterized by extensive forest cover, abundant water resources, and rich biodiversity he underscored the importance of sustainable resource utilization to enhance farmers’ income and ensure livelihood security. He also noted that the growth of tourism in the Islands has positively influenced the rural economy, creating new market opportunities for agricultural producers.

Dr Nayak urged farmers to adopt the advanced technologies showcased during the mela to enhance productivity and economic returns. He emphasized that agricultural produce from the Islands holds significant potential not only in local markets but also in mainland India. He encouraged farmers to provide regular feedback to the Institute to enable refinement of technologies based on field-level realities. He further stressed the importance of collaborative and multidisciplinary efforts among research institutions, local administration, and stakeholders to effectively address farmers’ challenges and strengthen the farming community.

Dr A. Velmurugam emphasized the importance of utilizing Agromet Advisory Services provided by the Institute and advised farmers to regularly follow weather-based advisories to enhance productivity and minimize climate-related risks. He encouraged farmers to maintain close interaction with scientists, frequently visit the Institute, and seek expert guidance for resolving field-level issues.

Dr B. Augustine Jerard advised farmers to adopt best management practices in plantation crops to improve productivity and sustainability. He highlighted scientific crop management practices including nutrient management, water conservation, pest and disease control, and timely cultural operations. He also emphasized the benefits of intercropping in plantation systems for improved resource utilization, diversified income, and reduced economic risk.

Shri Rakesh B. Pangat elaborated on various financial schemes and support mechanisms available through NABARD for farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and rural entrepreneurs.

Technology Showcasing and Farmer Participation

Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Dr Jai Sunder highlighted the significance of organizing the Kisan Mela as a vital platform for technology dissemination and strengthening farmer–scientist interaction. He encouraged farmers to adopt institute-developed technologies and maintain regular engagement with scientists for technical guidance and timely advisories to improve farm management practices.

During the mela, various divisions of ICAR-CIARI showcased technologies related to horticulture, fisheries, animal science, natural resource management, and crop improvement. A total of 16 stalls were set up featuring exhibits from ICAR-CIARI, the Department of Agriculture, NABARD, SBI, SHGs, PPVFRA, and private organizations.

Approximately 400 farmers and farm women participated in the programme and actively interacted with scientists and experts, making the event a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and technology dissemination. Extension publications in the local language were also released to promote improved agricultural and allied management practices.

Earlier, Dr A. K. Nayak and Dr A. Velmurugam visited various experimental farms of the Institute, including the World Coconut Germplasm Centre (WCGC). An interactive meeting with scientists and officials was held to review ongoing research programmes, institutional priorities, and strategies for strengthening agricultural development in the Islands.

During the visit, Dr. Nayak inaugurated Sanvardhan, the primary plant hardening facility, and the indoor portable carp hatchery unit. He also visited the ornamental fish breeding unit, interacted with scientists, and appreciated the Institute’s ongoing research initiatives and technological advancements.

The Kisan Mela–2026-cum-Exhibition reaffirmed ICAR-CIARI’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

(Source: ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram)