Sri Vijaya Puram, March 1: The Kisan Mela–2026 cum Exhibition concluded successfully at ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram, marking the culmination of a vibrant platform that brought together farmers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across the islands. The event served as an important interface for disseminating innovative agricultural technologies, promoting climate-resilient farming practices, and strengthening farmer–scientist interactions.
The concluding season was chaired by Dr. A. Velmurugam, Assistant Director General (SWM), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr. Jai Sunder, Director ICAR-CIARI; Tribal Chief Shri Lionald Nicomed from CTC, Car Nicobar along with scientists, officials, farmers, and other stakeholders
In his valedictory address, Dr. A. Velmurugam, ADG (SWM), appreciated the organizers for successfully conducting the event and lauded the significant contributions of ICAR–CIARI to the farming community of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He described the islands as a “Mini India,” reflecting their rich cultural diversity and unique agro-climatic conditions, which differ markedly from the mainland. Highlighting challenges such as heavy monsoon rains, seasonal water scarcity, cyclones, and coastal erosion, he stressed the need to enhance farmers’ income and attract youth to agriculture through entrepreneurship and innovative livelihood models. Expressing confidence in the collective efforts of ICAR–CIARI, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and the Administration, he urged farmers to adopt and disseminate the technologies showcased during the Kisan Mela.
Tribal Chief Shri Lionald Nicomed from CTC, Car Nicobar, expressed his sincere gratitude to the organizers for conducting the Kisan Mela for the benefit of farmers, especially tribal farmers. He appreciated ICAR–CIARI for bringing scientific knowledge and practical technologies directly to the grassroots level.
Dr. Jai Sunder, the Director of ICAR–CIARI, in his address emphasized that the two-day Kisan Mela was exceptionally beneficial, serving as an outstanding platform for the exchange of innovative agricultural technologies and practical knowledge. He reported that over 1,000 farmers, students, and stakeholders actively engaged in the event, gaining from the technical discussions and exhibitions. Highlighting the significance of post-harvest management in island conditions, he underscored the necessity for value addition through the processing of locally available fruits, coconuts, and other products for tourists, as well as for marketing to mainland consumers. This approach aims to enhance farmers’ income and promote agri-enterprises based in the islands.
Awards were presented to the victors of the Fruits and Vegetables Competition, which was held as a segment of the Kisan Mela. Contestants displayed an extensive range of high-quality produce grown through enhanced agricultural methods. The competition was divided into two categories, namely Fruits and Vegetables, motivating farmers to present their finest products. The winners received recognition and accolades for their contributions to advancing excellence in horticultural production.
Earlier, Dr. Y. Ramakrishna, Principal Scientist and Head of KVK, South Andaman, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and farmers, providing a brief overview of the activities at the kisan mela. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Santosh Kumar, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, Nicobar. The coordination of the programme was managed by Shri Yatharth Sharma, Subject Matter Specialist at KVK North and Middle Andaman.