The ICAR-Central Island Agriculture Research Institute, Port Blair celebrated 42nd Foundation Day on 23rd June 2019 at its campus.
Chief Guest of the day, Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Andaman & Nicobar Islands urged the Institute members for conducting activities that can help in doubling the farmers’ income by the Year - 2022. He said that such activities will provide an insight into the agricultural activities which can be taken up on the basis of market demand and help in adding to the farmer's income. This would increase exports as well. Sharma said adopting activities like crab fattening, seaweed culture, etc., can be taken up in the submerged agricultural lands. He added that such activities will prove to be fruitful in providing employment and generating more income.
Sharma also planted a sapling at the Zero point. He visited the Dweep Krishi Darpan and took note of various R&D activities of the Institute. He assured to construct a community hall with a capacity to accommodate around 5,000 people at a time for the farmers at the CIARI. The facility would be used by the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Administration to conduct any activity.
He also felicitated the scientists, technical, administrative and supporting staff of CIARI for their contributions towards the agriculture development.
The Guest of Honor, Dr. Vijiayachari, Director, RMRC said CIARI’s contribution is indispensable for maintaining the food security in the Islands.
Dr. A. Kundu, Director (Acting) underlined the kaleidoscope of Institute’s activities during the last four decades. Dr. Kundu urged the Member of Parliament to provide the kind support for constructing a community hall for accommodating the farmers coming from different Islands under one roof. He also opined to organize the various events like Island Kisan Mela, training program, seminars, symposiums, etc.
Shri Sanjeev Kumar Mondal, Adyaksha, Zila Parishad, South Andaman along with the officials of the Development Department, NABARD, ZSI, ASI, retired personnel of CIARI and farmers were also present during the occasion. The occasion also marked the display of colorful and enthralling cultural programs for the welfare and entertainment of the staff.
