Rangat, Dec. 12: ICAR–KVK, North and Middle Andaman organized NFDB Sponsored three-day Training-cum-awareness programme on “Responsible use of various chemicals in Aquaculture” from 10th to 12th December, 2025. The programme targeted farmers and farmwomen from Kaushalya Nagar Gram Panchayat, Rangat tehsil. The training program was inaugurated by Shri George Kujur, Pradhan, Kaushalya Nagar Gram Panchayat, in the presence of Er. Manoj Kumar, In-charge, ICAR–KVK, N&M Andaman. In his inaugural address, Shri Kujur expressed his happiness and lauded the efforts of KVK,N&M Andaman for organizing such training program for the benefit of farming communities and motivated the farmers and farm women to adopt fish farming practices with scientific manner in their existing farms to get maximum returns.
In the technical sessions that followed, Er. Manoj Kumar delivered a lecture on the safe use of chemicals in Integrated Farming Systems. He explained the importance of using inputs in the right dose, at the right time and with proper handling to protect soil health, water quality and farm workers. He also highlighted common mistakes farmers make while using pesticides, fertilizers and disinfectants, and shared practical steps to reduce risks in mixed farming setups that include crops, livestock and aquaculture. His session helped participants understand how to maintain productivity while ensuring safety for people and the environment.
Shri Subam Debroy, SMS (Aquaculture) delivered a lecture on the status of fisheries and aquaculture in the North and Middle Andaman district, with a strong emphasis on the importance of chemical awareness for local aquaculture practices. He outlined the types of chemicals commonly used in modern fish farming and explained their roles in pond preparation, water quality improvement and disease management. He guided participants on the safe and responsible use of these inputs, including correct dosing, timing and handling practices. He also discussed preventive measures for major fish diseases and highlighted the benefits of organic manures and vermicompost as sustainable fertilizing options. His session helped farmers understand how to maintain healthy ponds while reducing risks to stock, the environment and farm workers.
Shri Yatharth Sharma, SMS (Home Science) delivered a lecture on post-harvest management in aquaculture with a focus on safe chemical handling and maintaining fish quality. He explained how proper hygiene, careful use of preservatives and correct handling practices help reduce spoilage and improve market value. He also introduced the concept of nutrigardens within integrated farming systems and highlighted how homestead vegetable production can support household nutrition and farm sustainability. His session gave participants practical steps to improve product quality and strengthen integrated farm productivity.
To strengthen pond-based integrated farming systems, high-quality vegetable seeds, probiotics for water quality management, and agricultural lime were distributed to participating farmers and farm women. These inputs are expected to support better crop production, improved pond conditions and more balanced farm productivity.
The program was conducted under the overall guidance of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (Act.), ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram. About 48farmers and farmwomen participated in and benefited from the training.