Sri Vijaya Puram, April 30: Field Day on “Paddy Fallow Sesame Cultivation under Island Conditions” was organised by ICAR-CIARI on 30.04.2026 at a farmers’ demonstration field in Chouldari village, South Andaman. The programme aimed to create awareness among farmers on the potential of sesame cultivation during the summer season in paddy fallow lands.
During the programme, ICAR-CIARI scientists explained the performance of suitable sesame varieties, particularly JCS-2454 and CUMS-17, along with the recommended sowing time, package of practices and advantages of sesame cultivation during the summer season. The scientists highlighted that sesame is a short-duration and remunerative crop with good potential for crop diversification in the Andaman Islands. During the Field Day, scientists also created awareness among farmers on the balanced use of fertilizers for sustainable sesame cultivation in paddy fallow lands. Farmers were educated on the importance of soil test-based nutrient management, judicious application of major and micronutrients, and integrated use of organic manures along with chemical fertilizers to maintain soil health and improve crop productivity. The scientists emphasized that balanced fertilization not only enhances yield and input-use efficiency but also reduces unnecessary fertilizer expenditure, prevents soil degradation, and supports long-term agricultural sustainability under island conditions.
The Director, ICAR-CIARI, urged the farmers to come forward to cultivate sesame in paddy fallow areas instead of leaving the land unused after paddy harvest. He emphasized that paddy fallow sesame cultivation can enhance farmers’ income, diversify existing cropping systems, reduce dependence on mainland edible oil sources and provide better market opportunities through value addition.
Officials from KVK South Andaman and the Department of Agriculture, Andaman Administration, also participated in the programme. Around 30 farmers attended the Field Day and interacted with the scientists on sesame cultivation and its future prospects in the islands.