Sri Vijaya Puram, June 18: As part of the nationwide Pre-Kharif initiative, the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) was launched across Andaman and Nicobar Islands on 29th May 2025, following a preparatory meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration. The campaign, aimed at empowering farmers through awareness on central agricultural schemes and sustainable practices, concluded successfully on 12th June, 2025, marking a significant milestone in grassroots agricultural outreach.
The Chief Secretary had earlier emphasized the importance of clear communication of Government schemes, active dissemination of modern agricultural innovations, and participation of PRI members and Departmental officers. Departments were instructed to maintain detailed documentation, structured feedback systems, and standardized Gram Panchayat-wise reporting for authenticity and accountability.
The VKSA campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers across all zones, including remote and interior areas. On the inaugural day, A&N Islands ranked 4th at the national level in farmer participation percentage, reflecting the overwhelming response from the local farming community.
A major attraction of the campaign was the Krishi Rath, flagged off at Chouldari village, South Andaman. The Rath traversed across rural and far-flung areas, spreading awareness via banners, audio messages, and direct farmer interaction.
In alignment with the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative linked to World Environment Day, the campaign saw the planting of 569 fruit-bearing plants in SHG locations, Anganwadi Centres, and other Government Offices, symbolizing environmental commitment and emotional connect.
Over the 15-day campaign, a total of 194 events and awareness camps including nukkad nataks, sports meets, and evening chaupals were organized. These engaged 25,581 participants, including farmers, fishermen and women Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Notably, Departmental officials and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) extended the campaign to remote regions like the Nancowrie group of Islands, often traveling by boat to ensure no farmer was left behind.
The District officials, including Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners, conducted regular field visits, while district-wise news were covered through press releases. The campaign also placed strong emphasis on real-time feedback collection, documentation of best practices, and challenges faced by the farming community.
The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan has reaffirmed Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ dedication to sustainable and inclusive agricultural development and stands as a replicable model for effective grassroots campaign execution toward a Viksit Bharat.