Car Nicobar, Feb 12: The inauguration programme of the project titled “Boosting Livelihood and Ensuring Nutritional Security Through Horticulture Development in Nicobar” was successfully conducted on 12 February 2026 at Community hall, Big Lapathy village. The programme marked a significant step towards strengthening horticultural development and improving the livelihood and nutritional security of the farming community in Nicobar district. The programme was inaugurated by Lionad Nicomed, CTC, Car Nicobar, and First Village Captain, Shri Manuah Thomas in the distinguished presence of Shri Gopalan Santhanam, General Manager, NABARD, Shri Praphul Dev, Assistant Manager, NABARD, and Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head, KVK Nicobar.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head, KVK Nicobar who briefed the gathering about the objectives and importance of the project for the Nicobar region, emphasizing the need for horticulture development to enhance farmers’ income, create sustainable livelihood opportunities, and ensure year-round availability of fresh and nutritious vegetables and fruits.
In his inaugural address, Lionad Nicomed, CTC, Car Nicobar, encouraged farmers to actively participate in vegetable cultivation and horticultural activities. He stressed the importance of increasing local vegetable production to ensure nutritional security for island communities and reduce dependency on external sources.
Big Lapathy Captain, Shri Manuah Thomas, also addressed the participants. He appreciated the initiative taken by NABARD and KVK Nicobar for implementing the project in the region. He encouraged farmers and village members to actively support and participate in horticulture activities to strengthen local food production and improve community well-being.
Shri Gopalan Santhanam, General Manager, NABARD, addressed the participants and elaborated on NABARD’s role in promoting rural development and livelihood enhancement. He explained the objectives and key components of the project and assured continued institutional support for strengthening horticulture development in Nicobar.
This programme conducted under the guidance of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (Act), ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram.