Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 15: The Department of Agriculture in association with the Union Territory Agricultural Technology Management Agency (UTATMA), organized State-Level Mahila Kisan Diwas today on the theme ‘Role of Women Farmers in Building Developed Agriculture and a Developed India’ in the Conference Hall of the Zonal Agriculture Office, Goalghar.
Padma Shri Smt. Chellammal, a renowned organic farmer as the chief guest, encouraged women farmers to adopt organic and sustainable farming practices to maintain soil health, promote safe food production, protect the environment and enhance farm income.
In his address, Director of Agriculture, Shri Debabrata Basantia highlighted the role of women in Agriculture and allied sector and emphasised the importance of empowering women farmers.
Women Pradhans from South Andaman, namely Smti Jyoti, (Sippighat), Smti Tapasi Shah, (Chouldari), Smti Naseema Bibi, (Bambooflat-II) and Smti Sajida Banu, (Mannarghat) attended the programme and shared their experiences highlighting the initiatives undertaken to empower rural women through agriculture and allied activities.
A Farmer–Scientist Interaction Session was organized during the programme, wherein Dr. Chaithyashree J, Scientist (Agricultural Extension), ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), interacted with women farmers and addressed their queries.
During the technical session, Dr. S. C. Rekha, Assistant Director (Agri.), South Andaman, and Smti Pitchammal Beevi, Assistant Director (Agri.), HVADA, interacted with the women farmers and briefed them on various departmental schemes and assistance available to farmers.
Twelve members of Self-Help Groups through an exhibition showcased their entrepreneurial skills and efforts in processing and value addition of agricultural produces. Winners of the Flower Show 2025-26 were also awarded certificates and trophies during the programme.