Car Nicobar, May 26: The Secretary, Agriculture and AH&VS, Smt. Pallavi Sarkar, IAS, conducted a series of field visits, community interactions, and Departmental reviews from 23rd to 24th May, 2025, aimed at strengthening local agricultural practices and promoting integrated farming systems under the directions of the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration.
Field inspections were carried out at the farmers field of Tapoiming village, including integrated farming system adopted by Shri Patrick Jeremiah and the bee hive demonstration plot at the field of Shri Simon William under ATMA initiatives. These visits served to promote best practices and motivate other farmers to adopt sustainable farming models.
A joint meeting was held with the Chairman, Tribal Council Nicobar District, Village Headmen, and the Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar District, where Departmental plans and proposals were discussed. The Tribal Council and village representatives were encouraged to share village-specific needs and suggestions to help shape a decentralized and inclusive Action Plan for agriculture development in the District. The Department also proposed revival of existing plantations through better management practices and encouraged the establishment of community spice gardens.
Inspections were also carried out at the Assistant Director (Agriculture) Office, Sub Depot, Rural Knowledge Centre and Veterinary Hospital, Arong Composite Farm. At the Multi-Purpose Farm, the Department emphasized the need for capacity building among staff and outlined steps for improved orchard management with a focus on fruits and spices. A new Nutmeg Block was initiated with the planting of a sapling and plans to develop a mother block for true-to-type propagation material.
In a major development to immediate facilitate public service, the Rural Knowledge Centre was re-opened and temporary Incubator-cum-Hatchery Unit of AH&VS Department and Sub-Depot of Agriculture Department was initiated. Additionally, to give more thrust to poultry development under the AH&VS Department in Car Nicobar, the CTC Chairman and Secretary were invited for Nicobari fowl and Vanaraja chick distribution to the local tribal farmers.
Both the Departments of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry reaffirmed their commitment to work in close coordination with local communities and stakeholders to ensure holistic development of agriculture in Car Nicobar.