ICAR-CIARI in Association with ASA and GNFSU Conducts National Workshop on “Sustainable Agriculture through Natural Farming”

Sri Vijaya Puram, May 14: ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), in collaboration with the Andaman Science Association (ASA) and Gujarat Natural Farming Science University (GNFSU)successfully organized a National Workshop on “Sustainable Agriculture through Natural Farming” on May 13, 2025, at Sri Vijaya Puram, Port Blair. The workshop brought together eminent experts, researchers, extension personnel, and farmers to deliberate on sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices suited to island ecosystems. The inaugural session began with the ICAR song and lighting of the lamp, after which Mr. Talaviya Harshangkumar, Scientist, NRM Division, warmly welcomed all the dignitaries present. This was followed by a formal welcome address by Dr. E. B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI and President, ASA. Dr. R. A. Gurjar, Director of Extension, GNFSU; Dr. N. Ravisankar, Project Coordinator, AICRP on IFS; and Dr. A. Velmurugan, ADG (SWM), ICAR addressed the gathering as Guests of Honour, highlighting the importance of natural farming for soil health, farmer livelihoods, and agro-ecological balance. Several publications were released by the dignitaries to promote awareness and knowledge dissemination. The Chief Guest, Dr. C. K. Timbadia, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Natural Farming Science University (GNFSU), delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the principles and transformative potential of natural farming. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. I. Jaisankar, Senior Scientist and In-charge, NRM Division, ICAR-CIARI.

The technical session began with a lecture by Dr. C. K. Timbadia on the “Principles & Practices in Natural Farming,” offering a comprehensive overview of methods that reduce chemical inputs and enhance natural soil fertility. Dr. A. Velmurugan presented insights on “Harnessing Microbial Dynamics in Natural Farming,” explaining the pivotal role of soil microbiota in nutrient cycling and plant health. Dr. N. Ravisankar followed with a lecture on “Natural Farming: Recent Research and Agro-Ecological Benefits,” sharing the outcomes of recent scientific evaluations and their implications for Indian farming systems. Dr. R. A. Gurjar rounded off the session with a hands-on-oriented talk on “Bio-input Preparation & Multilayer Farming,” providing simple and scalable techniques for farmers. The session ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Abhilash, Scientist, NRM Division, acknowledging the contributions of all speakers and participants.

The workshop witnessed active participation from scientists, farmers, and stakeholders, including KVK, South Andaman, and virtual attendees from Reginal Station of ICAR-CIARI Minicoy (Lakshadweep) and KVKs in Nimbudera and Nicobar. The event reinforced ICAR-CIARI’s ongoing commitment to fostering climate-resilient, low-input agriculture and providing farmers with tools and knowledge to transition toward more sustainable and self-reliant farming systems.