An educational excursion was organized for 125 eighth-grade students from Kendra Vidyalaya No. 2, Mini Bay, accompanied by six faculty members, to explore the ongoing Integrated Farming System, Fisheries, and Crop Science activities at the Garacharma Research Complex of ICAR-CIARI in Port Blair on October 28, 2024.
Dr. T. Subramani, Senior Scientist and Head in Charge of the Natural Resource Management Division provided hands-on experience in topics such as Organic Farming, Integrated Farming Systems, and Watershed Management. Dr. J. Praveenraj, scientist, elaborated on freshwater ornamental fish and the concept of fish spas. Shri Shyam Sundar Rao, Sr. Technical Assistant showcased microplots featuring various rice types. Shri A.K. Tripathi, ACTO, demonstrated the Nakshatra Garden. The students expressed their enthusiasm for the knowledge gained during their visit to ICAR-CIARI and engaged with the scientists to clarify their queries. They also expressed a desire to observe additional activities during future visits.
Prior to the activities, Shri D. Karunakaran, scientist welcomed the group and introduced the institute's role in advancing agriculture in the islands. He emphasized the importance of leveraging their visit to interact with scientists, fostering confidence, and nurturing a scientific mindset.
The visit was coordinated by Shri D. Karunakaran, Scientist and In-charge of Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit, along with Smt. Asma Bibi, Senior Technical Assistant, Shri Ali Akbar, Technician, and Mr. T. Adharsh Narayana, Young Professional-1, under the leadership and guidance of Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair.