Sri Vijaya Puram, May 22: The ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute), Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, organized a farmer sensitization programme on “Balanced Use of Fertilizers and Entrepreneurial Farming” at Guptapara Panchayat, South Andaman, on 21 May 2026. The programme aimed to promote balanced nutrient management, improve soil health, and encourage entrepreneurial farming systems suited to the fragile island ecosystem.
The programme was conducted by a team of scientists comprising Dr. M. Muruganandam, Principal Scientist and Head (Fisheries Science Division), Dr. Ajit Singh Waman, Senior Scientist (Spices), and Dr. Rafeeque Rahman Alyethodie, Senior Scientist (Animal Genetics and Breeding). They jointly addressed key aspects of integrated farming, climate resilience, and livelihood diversification for rural farmers, particularly women-led groups and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Dr. M. Muruganandam stressed the importance of conserving soil and rainwater resources for long-term productivity. He highlighted the need to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers such as urea and DAP due to their limited availability and environmental concerns.
Dr. Ajit Singh Waman emphasized the value of indigenous, underutilized, and climate-resilient fruit crops that require minimal external inputs while contributing to nutrition and food security. He highlighted that promoting native germplasm like Cowphal, Goonphal and Kattaphal can reduce input dependency and strengthen sustainable farming systems.
Dr. Rafeeque Rahman Alyethodie addressed livestock health management in view of the upcoming monsoon season. He explained preventive measures against seasonal diseases, stressing vaccination, hygiene, balanced feeding, and timely veterinary care to safeguard livestock productivity and reduce economic losses in smallholder systems.
The village Pradhan, Sh. Durlapdas highlighted the contribution of SHGs and farmer collectives in strengthening agricultural enterprises through collective action, value addition, and improved market access in the Panchayat.
The event highlighted that balanced nutrient management is essential for sustaining soil fertility, conserving water resources, and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity in island conditions. Scientists emphasized the integration of organic, biological, and need-based inorganic inputs to reduce production costs while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Practical demonstrations and an interactive session enabled farmers to clarify doubts on fertilizer use, organic inputs, biofertilizer preparation, and sustainable farming practices.
About 45 women farmers and entrepreneurs and 10 progressive farmers from Guptapara and Sh Chandan Kumar, technician and other staff from ICAR-CIARI participated in the programme.