A twin programme on the Integrated Farming System for Livelihood Improvement of Tribal Farmers and Agro-Advisory Services for Livelihood Improvement of Farmers under the STC was conducted by the AICRP on the Integrated Farming System in collaboration with Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva. As part of the programme, small agricultural implements were distributed by ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute in coordination with the Zonal Agricultural Office, Nancowrie, across four villages; Kakana, Pilpillow, Chotta Enaka, and Hitui on 12th and 13th March 2025. During the programme, Dr. I. Jaisankar, Senior Scientist (Agroforestry) and Principal Investigator of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System, elaborated on the advantages and scope of the Integrated Farming System, including the incorporation of various components to enhance farm income. He discussed tuber crops, fish, poultry, and cattle integration, waste recycling, the cultivation of multipurpose tree species, CIARI technologies, organic waste management, and integrated pest and disease management within the system.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Abhilash, Scientist; Shri T. Harshang Kumar, Scientist; Dr. Santosh Kumar, Head, KVK, Car Nicobar; and Shri M.K. Arsad, AFA, Department of Agriculture, Nancowrie. A total of 195 farmers from the four villages participated in this awareness-cum-training programme. As part of the distribution, 95 axes, 55 hand saws, 102 crowbars, and 102 spades with handles were provided to the farmers. Additionally, 105 bend knives, 2 garden pruners, and 250 kg of Dweep Bioconsortia were distributed to support their agricultural activities. The entire programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, Director, CIARI.