The Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI) successfully finished the two-day Kisan Mela 2025 valedictory celebration. More than 400 farmers from different clusters across the South, Middle, and North Andaman & Nicobar Islands participated. The Chief Guest for the event was Dr. S.K. Chaudhary, the Director General of the Fertilizer Association of India and the former Deputy Director General of Natural Resource Management at ICAR, New Delhi. During his speech, Dr. Chaudhary conveyed his contentment with the encouraging comments from farmers who were keen to improve their expertise.
He gave his word that the scientists at KVK (Krishi Vigyan Kendra) and CIARI are still dedicated to bringing cutting-edge innovations to the farming sector. Dr. Chaudhary commended the young people and students who were honored at the ceremony, emphasizing that their achievements would encourage the next generation to work in agriculture as scientists and entrepreneurs. Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, emphasized the importance of embracing technologies like organic farming, drone technology, and farm mechanisation to boost agricultural productivity.
He also encouraged farmers to explore agro-eco tourism and engage with stakeholders to improve their socio-economic conditions. Dr. Chakurkar highlighted the importance of farmers’ feedback in developing research projects. Five farmers from three districts were honored for successful adoption of agricultural technologies and entrepreneurial ventures. Awards were presented to CIARI, the Agriculture Department, and Self-Help Groups. The Kisan Mela 2025 concluded with farmers equipped with knowledge to embrace modern technologies and diversify farming practices for a sustainable future.
