Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 12: The Island Kisan Mela-2026 will be organised by the ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram, in association with ICAR-KVKs, on 27th and 28th February 2026 at the CIARI Mela Ground, Garacharma campus. The two-day farmer-centric event aims to promote sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural; livestock and fisheries technologies tailored to the island ecosystem of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
A key highlight of the mela will be the Fruits and Vegetables Competition, offering farmers an opportunity to showcase their locally produced and unique farm produce. The competition seeks to recognise quality, diversity and innovation in island Agri-horticulture while encouraging improved production standards and value addition. The mela will provide a dynamic platform for farmers, farm women, fisheries and livestock stakeholders, self-help groups, Agri-entrepreneurs, business incubatees, startups, extension personnel and students to interact directly with ICAR scientists and experts.
Live demonstrations will include improved crop varieties, integrated farming systems, fisheries and aquaculture practices, livestock management technologies, horticultural innovations, post-harvest processing techniques and advisory services on market linkage and government schemes.
Special emphasis will be given to agripreneurship development and business incubation support. Registration for the Fruits and Vegetables Competition is now open. Interested participants may contact Dr. Pooja Kapoor at 9933235048, Dr. Manoj Kumar at 98883265231, Dr. Zachariah George at 9434271615, or Dr. Santosh Kumar at 8787629636 for further details and registration support.
The Island Kisan Mela-2026 is open to all, and entry is free. Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to participate and make the most of this opportunity to celebrate the spirit of island farming.