Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar inaugurated Skill Development Program organized by ICAR-KVK-CIARI-Nicobar

Under a 100-day action plan, a 5-day skill development training program on “Harvesting Diversity: Coconut-based Intercropping with Spices and Tuber Crops” began on July 10, 2024, at the Community Hall, Tapoiming Village. Mrs. Jyoti Kumari, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Nicobar, inaugurated the program and praised the efforts of farmers such as Mr. Patrick, Mr. Suman, Mr. Manish, and Mr. Jaan Mohammed for their contributions to advancing intensive agricultural farming in Nicobar. Mrs. Kumari spoke about the potential of agricultural diversification and sustainable practices. She highlighted the profitability of intercropping spices and tubers in coconut farms.Shri Simon William, second captain of Tapoiming Village, attended as the guest of honor. Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head of KVK Nicobar, welcomed participants and emphasized the program's significance.

Around 500 spice and tuber crops saplings were distributed to youth participants by the Horticulture and Crop Improvement Division, ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair, under TSP. The training included field exposure and interactive sessions for 30 local farmers. Subject Matter Specialists Dr. Akshay, Mr. Ajmal S., Mr. Depoo Meena, and Mr. Sanketh G.D. conducted technical sessions on intercropping, crop practices, post-harvest techniques, and marketing strategies. Ther overall programme was conducted under the guidance and supervision of Dr. E. B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair.