Sri Vijaya Puram, April 13: An Inter-Departmental Working Group (IDWG) meeting of the Union Territory Agriculture Technology Management Agency (UTATMA) was held today in the Mini Conference Hall of the Secretariat under the Chairmanship of the Secretary (Agri)/Fisheries/AH&VS/ Chairman, IDWG of UTATMA.
The objective of the meeting was to review the physical and financial progress of ATMA during 2025–26 and to recommend the State Extension Work Plan (SEWP) for 2026–27 for approval by the State Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC) at State level.
The Chairman, IDWG emphasized that the shortfalls of the previous year shall be addressed and the targets and activities proposed in the current FY 2026-27 should be achieved in time in a planned manner.
It has been directed to constitute District Farmer Advisory Committees (DFACs) in all three districts, under the chairmanship of the concerned Deputy Commissioners which plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of various ATMA schemes at the district level and provide farmers’ feedback for district level planning and implementation.
Further, directions were issued to expedite filling up of all vacant positions of ATMA functionaries so as to adequately equip UTATMA with the necessary manpower for effective implementation of ATMA activities.
The Draft State Extension Work Plan (SEWP) for 2026–27 was discussed in detail & key directions issued include:
-Finalization of training programmes for ATMA functionaries in consultation with concerned Departments and reputed institutions such as ICAR-KVK, CIARI, MANAGE and NABARD.
-Emphasis on “Spice Pravah” initiative, Integrated Nutrient Management and other need-based activities across districts.
-Mobilization of farmer groups with a focus on spice cultivation and Commodity-based Interest Groups (CIG).
-Organizing of Krishi Expos, Regional Fairs and District-level Melas with adequate fund allocation.
-Institution of Best Farmer Awards at State, District and Block levels across Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries sectors.
-Strengthening of IEC activities including preparation of pamphlets, booklets video documentation etc.
-Submission of proposals for innovative activities by Agriculture and allied Departments.
At the outset, the Joint Director (Agri), HQ / Project Director (ATMA) welcomed the Chairman and all members present. A detailed presentation was made highlighting the activities of Extension Reforms and agenda of IDWG UTATMA.
The meeting was attended by members of the IDWG of UTATMA including Assistant Commissioners of Car Nicobar and Mayabunder, Assistant Commissioner (HQ), Director (Agriculture), Director (Fisheries), Director, I/c AH&VS, In-charge KVK, Zonal Officers and other officials of Departments viz; Forest, Social Welfare, Rural Development, NABARD both physically and through virtual mode.