Sri Vijaya Puram, July 13: A team of scientists from the ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Garacharma, conducted a series of capacity-building programmes for Nicobari tribal farmers in Tamaloo, Tee Top, Small Lapathy, and Big Lapathy villages of Car Nicobar from 8th–11th July 2026. The programmes focused on “Crop Residue Management in Integrated Farming Systems for Improving Productivity” and “Integrated Nutrient Management in Tuber Crops for Enhancing Productivity.” During the training, Dr. I. Jaisankar, Principal Scientist (Agroforestry) and Project Investigator of AICRP–Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) and AICRP–Tuber Crops, highlighted the importance of multipurpose tree species for efficient resource utilization, conservation of endemic plant biodiversity to mitigate the impacts of climate change, scientific cultivation of tuber crops, tuber crop-based farming systems, CIARI-developed technologies, and organic waste management.
Dr. Santosh Kumar, Senior Scientist and Head, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nicobar, elaborated on the package of practices for cultivating potential vegetable crops for nutritious kitchen gardens and explained nursery management techniques.The technical sessions were further enriched by Dr. Ajmal S., Dr. Deepoo Meena, Dr. Akshay, and Dr. Sanketh G.D., Subject Matter Specialists at KVK, Car Nicobar. They provided detailed guidance on integrated nutrient management in tuber crops, pest management, preparation of natural farming inputs, water harvesting techniques for efficient water use during lean periods, and integration of crops and livestock within an Integrated Farming System.
A total of 204 farmers from the four villages participated in the awareness-cum-training programmes. As part of the initiative, participants received 500 tapioca setts, 500 sweet potato rooted cuttings, 100 vegetable seed kits, and 50 Dweep Leaf Separators. Practical demonstrations were also conducted on the preparation and application of Beejamruth for natural farming, along with the operation and use of the Dweep Leaf Separator. The twin training programmes were coordinated by Dr. I. Jaisankar, Dr. Santosh Kumar, and Dr. Abhilash under the guidance of Dr. Jaisunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI. The initiative aimed to strengthen farmers’ knowledge and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, thereby enhancing productivity, resource efficiency, and climate resilience in the Nicobar Islands.