The Division of Natural Resource Management, ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram, successfully organized a Field Day on“Demonstration of Rice Growth and Yield under Different Transplanting Dates” at the Bloomsdale Research Farm, Chouldari. The programme was organized under the plan and guidance of Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, and coordinated by Dr. Abhilash, Scientist (Agricultural Meteorology), Dr. P. K. Singh, Principal Scientist (Plant Breeding and Genetics & Head I/c, Field Crop and Improvement), and Dr. Prabhu P., Scientist (Plant Genetic Resources)with technical support from Mr. Bikash Chand Mondal and Mr. Brajesh Kumar.The event was graced by the presence of all Heads of Divisions, Heads of Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and officials from the Department of Agriculture, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, whose active participation added value to the programme.
The programme witnessed active participation of around 30 farmers from Chouldari, Tushnabar and nearby villages, who were exposed to the practical aspects of rice production under different transplanting schedules.The programme began with an inaugural session, followed by a series of technical interactions. Dr. P. K. Singh emphasized the importance of improved rice varieties suitable for island conditions, highlighting their role in achieving higher yield potential and resilience against pests and diseases. Dr. Abhilash stressed the significance of timely nursery raising and transplanting, explaining how even small delays can adversely affect crop growth, yield attributes, and water use efficiency. Dr. Y. Ramakrishna elaborated on best agronomic practices, including nutrient management, spacing, and weed control, which are critical for ensuring better yield under local agro-climatic conditions.
Delivering his remarks, Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, highlighted the broader implications of such demonstrations. He stressed that timely transplanting in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is crucial, not because of drought risk but due to the abundant rainfall pattern, which may sometimes cause waterlogging, delayed maturity, and increased pest/disease incidence. He urged farmers to adopt climate-smart and location-specific cultivation practices demonstrated at ICAR-CIARI for sustaining productivity and profitability in rice-based systems.
The field visit was an interactive session where scientists guided farmers through experimental plots demonstrating the impact of different transplanting dates on rice growth and yield. Farmers observed differences in crop establishment, tillering, panicle initiation, and grain filling stages across dates. The practical exposure helped them understand how early and timely transplanting ensures better crop stand, efficient utilization of rainfall, reduced risk of lodging, and ultimately higher yields.
Farmers actively participated in discussions, raised queries on varietal performance, nutrient and water management, and crop protection practices, and shared their local experiences. The scientists addressed their concerns and encouraged them to adopt improved practices in their own fields.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Abhilash, who appreciated the enthusiastic participation of farmers and the support from colleagues. The event successfully bridged scientific knowledge with farmer practices, and farmers expressed keen interest in adopting the improved and timely transplanting methods demonstrated at the farm.